Potassium is an essential nutrient for plant growth and development. It is important for the production of flowers, fruits and seeds, as well as for regulating the water balance of plants. Furthermore, it is an essential element in particular for the correct ripening of the fruit. In organic farming, theaddition of potassium to the soil it is a delicate process, since the use of synthetic chemical fertilizers, i.e. mineral fertilizers, is not permitted.
In this article, therefore, we will explore natural techniques for add potassium to the soil in our garden, remaining faithful to the organic farming regime.
How to add potassium with organic fertilizing
Organic fertilizers, such as livestock manure from organic farms or the home compost, are natural sources of potassium and other beneficial elements for plants. These fertilizers can be added to the soil by digging to increase the amount of potassium available to plants. Livestock manure, for example, can be applied directly to the soil or added to the compost itself. Compost can be made at home or store bought.
How to add potassium with seaweed
Marine algae, such as the lithothamnium, are a natural source of potassium and other nutrients. Seaweed is also used as a plant supplement to help stimulate growth and produce healthy fruit. For example if you want prevent blossom end rot of tomatoes they are an excellent low-cost and natural solution.
How to add potassium with wood ash
Also there wood ash it is an excellent source of potassium and is easily available in the countryside, where almost everyone has a wood stove or fireplace, or obtains wood by burning plant pruning waste. However, wood ash should be used with caution, as it can alter the pH of the soil being strongly basic. You must therefore assess your starting pH and if your soil is already alkaline avoid. It is also important to make sure that the ash comes from clean and untreated wood, such as that derived from pellets, for example.
How to Add Potassium to Soil with Rock Meals
There rock flour (as kaolin, zeolite And bentonite) are a natural source of minerals, including potassium. Rock meal can be added to soil as a fertilizer, but also as a component of compost. Rock flour is commercially available in several varieties, depending on its geological origin and mineral content. In addition to the function of natural fertilizers, rock flours are used for the biological prevention of fungal diseases and parasites.
How to add potassium to the soil with natural mulch
There natural mulching technique it is very popular among organic garden enthusiasts. Used as a cover between crops, it allows us to limit the growth of weeds and to keep the soil more humid, saving water. Natural mulching, for example the one made with straw, has as a final result the addition of organic matter through the degradation of the vegetal cover. This organic substance enriches the soil with precious elements, including potassium.
Conclusions on adding potassium to the soil
In conclusion, the addition of potassium to the soil in organic farming requires the use of natural techniques, since the use of synthetic chemical fertilizers is not allowed. Organic fertilizers, seaweed, wood ash, rock flour, mulching are the techniques used in organic farming to increase the availability of potassium in the soil.
However, it is important to remember that adding potassium is not the only solution to ensure healthy and abundant production of plants. It is important to take care of the soil comprehensively, using sustainable cultivation techniques, such as crop rotationland cover and the elimination of the use of chemical pesticides.
Also, before adding any material to the soil, it is important to do a soil analysis to determine its composition and acidity level. This analysis can help choose the most suitable materials to improve soil fertility.
Insights
- Potassium – Harvard T.H. Chan
- Potassium and its role in sustainable agriculture – Springer Nature Switzerland.
Start a new Thread