Garden soil Resources
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C 1299
Soil Organic Matter
Soil organic matter (SOM) is a complex mixture of plant and animal tissues, and plays an important role in the physical, chemical, and biological processes in the soil. This publication describes how SOM contributes to overall soil fertility, factors controlling SOM abundance, and what cultivation practices growers can use to increase SOM in their soils.
Miguel L. Cabrera, Daniel L. Jackson, Jason Lessl, and Josh Fuder
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This publication is an annually-updated guide to fall gardening information and resources for Georgia. Topics include planting tall fescue lawns, soil bag flower beds, planting pansies like the pros, planting collards, turnips and cabbage, planting a home fruit orchard, mulching with leaves, gardening chores, cleaning and storing garden tools, treating for fire ants, and additional resources.
Sharon Dowdy, Kristin L. Slagle, Bob Westerfield, Clint Waltz, April Reese Sorrow, Stephanie Schupska, Paul Pugliese, and Amanda Swennes
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Successful lawn care requires a basic understanding of soil properties. A healthy plant starts with healthy soil. Soil is a complex relationship of soil minerals, organic matter, soil inhabiting organisms, and plants along with water and air. Understanding when and how to aerate the soil and understanding what pH is and how it affects plant health is essential for turfgrass health. This publication aims to help homeowners and landscape professionals improve soil fertility through the techniques discussed.
Clint Waltz and Becky Griffin
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C 990
Soil Inoculants
Soil inoculants are used for a variety of reasons. In some cases, we add soil organisms that have a known beneficial effect. A symbiotic relationship is one that is mutually beneficial. In return for the plant feeding the rhizobia carbon from photosynthesis and giving it a home, the bacteria can “fix” atmospheric nitrogen into a form that the plant can use.
Julia W. Gaskin, Peter Gary Hartel, Elizabeth L. Little, and Glendon H. Harris
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Many farmers and gardeners use natural minerals and organic fertilizers rather than synthetic ones to build their soil. If you use organic materials as all or part of your fertilization program, this publication will help you calculate the proper amount to use from the recommendations provided by a soil test.
Walter F. Reeves, Julia W. Gaskin, David E. Kissel Ph.D, George E. Boyhan, Wayne J. McLaurin, and Glendon H. Harris
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Soil pH is one of the most important measurements of soil fertility. Knowing a soil’s pH may help in diagnosing nutritional problems of agricultural crops and other plants.
David E. Kissel Ph.D and Paul F. Vendrell
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