SERIES 30 | Episode 04
Jerry uses a range of techniques to prevent his soil from becoming hydrophobic and repelling water during periods of dry weather, focusing on soil improvement.
Succession Mulching
Using the principles of succession mulching, Jerry initially added aged mushroom compost to the soil, followed a season later with a topping of pine bark mulch, then tea tree mulch the following season. The current mulch layer is a straw-based mulch of sugar cane. Each of the mulches Jerry utilises favours a different group of soil microorganisms, and over the years of succession mulching, these microbes have built up to allow the soil to accept the rainwater when it falls.
Both pine bark and eucalypt bark mulches are fantastic in the garden and have many applications, but it is important to remember that they may become counter-productive over time, given their relationship with some soil-borne fungi. If used over long periods of time, the mulch and fungi can bond and form plates, preventing the deep penetration of water and oxygen.
Wetting Agents
While there are many soil additives and wetting agents commercially available, it has been shown that these don’t biodegrade readily in the soil and can cause issues with sensitive animals and plants (including members of the Proteaceae family and animals such as lizards). To combat this, Jerry makes his own wetting agent from readily available food grade agar, a gelatine made from seaweed.
Method
- Dissolve agar in warm water (not hot) to dilute to consistency of runny custard
- Take 2 cups of this dilution and add to 9 litres of water (a watering can is ideal)
- Apply with a watering can - this will treat 6 sqm of soil.
Watering the soil before you are going to add the wetting agent will aid both the dispersal and effectiveness of the wetting agent. You can expect the effects of this application to last around three weeks, which while shorter than the commercially available products, means that it is readily biodegradable and far kinder to the soil. It is also the perfect amount of time for a tender young seedling to establish during the warmer months.
As someone deeply familiar with soil management and gardening practices, I can confidently discuss the techniques and concepts outlined in the article you provided. Let me demonstrate my expertise and delve into the concepts mentioned:
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Succession Mulching: This is a progressive method of layering different types of organic mulches over time. By using varied materials like aged mushroom compost, pine bark mulch, tea tree mulch, and straw-based mulch of sugar cane, Jerry is capitalizing on the unique properties and benefits each mulch offers. The primary advantage is fostering a diverse microbial community in the soil. Different mulches support different soil microorganisms, leading to a robust and balanced soil ecosystem. This diverse microbial community aids in retaining moisture and preventing soil from becoming hydrophobic.
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Soil Microorganisms: Soil is a complex ecosystem teeming with microorganisms crucial for its health and fertility. By using different mulches that support distinct microbial populations, Jerry is promoting a rich biodiversity in his soil. Over time, this microbial diversity improves soil structure, enhances nutrient availability, and increases water retention capacity.
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Potential Issues with Certain Mulches: While pine bark and eucalypt bark mulches offer numerous benefits, including weed suppression and moisture retention, prolonged use can lead to unintended consequences. Specifically, these mulches can foster a symbiotic relationship with certain soil-borne fungi, resulting in the formation of dense layers or plates. This phenomenon impedes water and oxygen penetration, compromising soil health. Therefore, it's essential to rotate or diversify mulch types to avoid such issues.
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Wetting Agents: Addressing soil hydrophobicity or water repellency is crucial, especially in regions experiencing dry spells. While commercial wetting agents are available, they may not always align with sustainable or environmentally friendly practices. Jerry's approach of creating a homemade wetting agent using food-grade agar offers a biodegradable solution. Agar, derived from seaweed, forms a gel-like substance when dissolved in water. This solution, when applied to the soil, helps improve water penetration and distribution. While its effectiveness might not match some commercial products in terms of duration, its biodegradability and environmental friendliness make it a preferable choice for many gardeners.
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Application Method: The method Jerry employs for applying the homemade wetting agent is systematic. By diluting the agar to a specific consistency and then further diluting it with water, he ensures uniform application across the soil. Additionally, pre-watering the soil aids in the dispersion and efficacy of the wetting agent.
In summary, Jerry's approach to soil improvement showcases a nuanced understanding of soil ecology, microbial dynamics, and sustainable gardening practices. By leveraging succession mulching and employing eco-friendly solutions like homemade wetting agents, he emphasizes the importance of nurturing the soil while maintaining environmental responsibility.
