‘Good’ Soil Report
This Soil Report shows that there are adequate levels of nutrients in the soil as well as relative proportions of them to each other. There is a high level of organic matter, which not only reduces the need to water so frequently, but makes the soil environment more hospitable to microbial communities. These microbial communities help plants absorb nutrients and act as the plant’s immune system.
The iron level is very high. Although, because the soil pH is close to neutral, the iron will remain locked in the soil and not interfere with plant health. The cation exchange capacity (CEC), the value that measures the ability of plants to absorb nutrients held in the soil, is right where we like to see it!
The Nitrogen level is very low, but that is typical. Nitrogen is a relatively volatile nutrient and can also be difficult to measure. No need to worry – all of our treatments include Nitrogen since it is the nutrient used in the largest quantities by plants.
‘Bad’ Soil Report
This Soil Report shows that there are deficiencies of nutrients that are used in large quantities by plants and are critical for growth and health.
Additionally, there are high levels of heavy metals coupled with a low soil pH. Heavy metals can’t be extracted from soil, but maintaining a neutral soil pH helps hold them in place and prevents them from being absorbed by plants. For certain plants, high levels of heavy metals can lead to toxicity.
If these soils are below a lawn, the lawn will absolutely continue to struggle. Grasses grow best with a soil pH of 6.5-7. Grasses would also benefit from a higher cation exchange capacity (CEC), the value that measures the ability of plants to absorb nutrients held in the soil. FertileTea and proper watering and mowing methods help boost CEC, microbial communities, and thus plant health.
Recent Blog Posts
Check out our recent topical blog posts for tips on organic gardening and environmental issues.