The chemistry of
the soil is one of the most critical considerations for any gardener, but it
can be particularly vital when it comes to gardening with perennials. That is because, whereas annuals provide a
fresh start year after year, gardening with perennials means that the plants
stay in the ground, and the chemistry of the soil can greatly affect all types
of perennials.
It is difficult
to overestimate how important proper soil chemistry is, since the soil provides
all the nutrients the plants need to grow and thrive.
Most types of
perennials are quite hardy, but it is very important to prepare the flower bed
properly. A properly prepared bed is the
first step to enjoying a healthy garden full of perennials. As with all plants, it is important for all
varieties of perennials to have plenty of healthy soil, enough water and the
right amount of sunlight.
One of the most
common problems with perennials is that of an uneven growth pattern. There are many types of perennials, and they
all have different growth rates. It is
normal for different types of perennials to grow faster or more slowly, but if
identical varieties of perennials show very different growth patterns within
different parts of the garden, soil chemistry may be to blame. Many gardeners assume that the same garden
plot will have the same chemistry everywhere, but this is not always the
case. Soil chemistry can vary even on
the same properly, sometimes even within the same garden plot.
If you suspect
that soil chemistry may be to blame for uneven growth patterns, it is important
to have a thorough soil analysis done to either confirm your suspicions or rule
them out. A good testing lab can quickly
point out problems like an uneven pH level, insufficient organic materials in
the soil, or insufficient nutrients. The
analysis will also give you a good baseline to go from as you improve the soil
with various additives.
The pH level of
the soil is an important consideration for the perennial garden. Most varieties of perennials will grow quite
well in soils with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0, but some perennials have different
requirements. If you do not know which plants
will grow best in your soil, be sure to check with your nursery or garden
center.
If the pH level
is excessively alkaline or excessively acidic, it can be brought back into
balance by adding humus. You can easily
make your own humus by using a compost bin to break down organic material, or
humus can be purchased directly from a garden center or nursery. If the humus is unsuccessful, limestone can
be added to make the soil more alkaline, while adding sulfur will help make it
more acidic.
After the
baseline soil chemistry is known, it will be easier to monitor the quality of the
soil going forward. A bed of perennials
should be checked for soil chemistry quality anytime a significant change in
the quality or number of blooms is noticed.
Keeping on top of the quality of your soil, and making changes as
needed, is the best way to keep your perennials blooming season after season.
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