Tips for Optimizing Your Soil's Health to Its Maximum Potential
In the picturesque village of Wardington, a unique approach to gardening is being practiced. The Land Gardeners, an organization spearheaded by Henrietta Courtauld, are revolutionising the way we view our gardens and their impact on the environment.
At the heart of their approach is a focus on soil health. They view the soil as a vital business, not just a medium for plants to grow. This perspective stems from the understanding that years of ploughing have released carbon into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.
The Land Gardeners are working to reverse this trend. By optimising the natural coexistence of micro-organisms, they aim to increase the amount of carbon sequestered into the ground. This is achieved through various methods, including improving a plant's rate of photosynthesis, which helps pull more carbon out of the air and into the ground.
One of their key strategies is the use of green manures. These are crops that are sown, grown, and then dug into the soil before they flower, or left if they are irresistible to bees. Green manures help to enrich the soil, providing nutrients and aiding in carbon sequestration.
Another important aspect is composting basics. The Land Gardeners collaborate with a neighboring farm to create their compost. Green waste is processed to create this valuable resource, which, when added to soil, can substantially reduce greenhouse gases. In fact, they have developed a special compost called Climate Compost, designed to improve soil health and sequester carbon.
To create good compost, they follow a simple formula. Each layer of carbon (like dried leaves) and nitrogen (like kitchen scraps) is watered, and 10% health insurance is included. The heap is then covered with a breathable membrane. In six to eight weeks, the compost is ready for use.
Avoiding soil disturbance is another key principle. Aeration and hydration are important for soil microbes, and digging is only used in extreme cases of compaction. Instead, a broad fork is used to lift the soil without turning it.
The garden at Wardington is a testament to this approach. Weeds are allowed to increase biodiversity, both above and below the ground, following the statement "Where there's mess, there's life." Weeds protect the soil and add diversity, providing a rich habitat for microbes and fungi that support healthy plants.
Improving soil health is not just beneficial for the garden, but for the planet as a whole. By sequestering carbon and supporting biodiversity, The Land Gardeners are setting an example for a more sustainable future. Even in our own gardens, we can make a difference. By mowing less frequently, allowing grass to grow longer, and spreading compost over our lawns, we can improve soil health and contribute to carbon sequestration.
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