Feb 2019 paper Flashcards
what is soil texture?
proportions and size of particles found eg: sand,silt, clay
could also describe feel of soil ie: soapy/gritty/smooth
what is soil structure?
arrangement of particles into aggregates/crumbs as well as presence of air, water and some om
describe characteristics of fym
well rotted to avoid scorching low in nutrients apply in bulk improves water retention opens up structure
describe characteristics of leaf mould
low in nutrients
variable pH-usually acidic
open fibrous structure
describe characteristic’s of spent mushroom compost
consists of rotted fym, peat and lime;
Has a high Ph,
decomposes quickly
state the pH range found in soils
4-8
why does pH of a soil need to be considered when growing garden plants?
plants may require different growing conditions-calcicoles/calcifuges
availability of nutrients in soil depends on pH
soil micro-organisms are less active in low pH (acidic)
certain diseases more prevalent in low ph-club root in brassicas
which mineral is less available in alkaline soils?
Iron Fe
what pH does peat have?
acidic
what pH does coir have?
neutral
what pH does green manure have?
acid
what pH does composted bracken have?
neutral
what pH does wood ash have?
alkaline
what pH does ammonium sulphate have?
acidic
what are the benefits of garden irrigation?
consistent watering process
larger areas of plants watered more effectively
automated times can control amount of water
regular watering system to benefit plant growth/root development