Composting & Soil
Soil health, composting techniques, fertilization, and organic amendments.
What Signs Indicate My Seed Starting Mix is Too Compacted?
I'm quite detail-oriented when it comes to my gardening practices, and I've been noticing that some of my seedlings aren't growing as vigorously as I'...
Can I compost certain types of diseased plant material?
As a retired botanist, I’m always interested in maintaining biodiversity and health within my garden, which is why I’m cautious about what goes into m...
How can I effectively compost in urban settings with limited space?
I'm currently living in an apartment in the city, and my garden has been largely limited to vertical gardening due to space constraints. I've tried us...
What’s the best way to maintain mulch throughout the rainy season?
As we approach the rainy season in Accra, I’m a bit concerned about how the heavy rainfall will affect the mulch in my garden. I’ve been using wood ch...
Is it necessary to sterilize cactus potting soil before planting?
I'm getting ready for a new planting season here in Gujarat, and I plan to pot some fresh cactus varieties that I've recently acquired. I’m wondering ...
Can I use compost generated from my bonsai trimmings?
As an avid bonsai cultivator, I find myself with a substantial amount of trimmings from my trees. Given my commitment to sustainable practices, I've b...
How can I effectively use organic mulch for my citrus trees?
I'm currently growing several citrus trees on my balcony in Paris, and I'm really focused on organic gardening techniques. I've been experimenting wit...
What are the best materials to include in my compost bin for optimal soil health?
I'm focused on creating a compost bin that will support the unique soil needs of my bonsai garden. Because I've always leaned towards traditional Japa...
How can I adjust my cactus soil mix for different seasons?
In my gardening practice, I've focused on growing a variety of cacti, particularly in containers. I’ve noticed that during the rainy season in my area...
How can I optimize aeration in my compost bin for better decomposition?
I'm currently managing a compost bin in my backyard in California, and I've been really focused on optimizing the decomposition process. My garden set...
How does composting affect soil microbiome diversity in my garden?
Having a background in botany has instilled in me a deep appreciation for soil health, particularly the microbial diversity that contributes to a thri...
Can I compost my old mulch, and how does it affect my garden soil?
I've been using organic mulch in my garden, and I'm starting to notice that some of it is breaking down and becoming less effective. I’m considering c...
When should I apply mulch for optimal citrus growth?
As a gardener passionate about growing organic citrus on my balcony in Paris, I'm trying to figure out the timing for applying mulch. I've read that t...
What's the best way to speed up the composting process?
I've been composting for a couple of months now, but it seems like my compost bin isn't breaking down materials as quickly as I'd hoped. My garden is ...
What to do if my compost smells bad?
I've been really enjoying my composting journey, but I've hit a snag—my compost bin has developed a pretty foul smell. My vegetable patch is in a smal...
Can I use cocoa mulch in my tropical garden without harming my pets?
I'm currently working on enhancing my tropical garden in Accra, and I've heard that cocoa mulch can be really beneficial for soil health and moisture ...
Are there specific types of worms that enhance composting in my bin?
As someone who has spent years studying plant genetics, I'm now expanding my gardening endeavors to include vermicomposting. I've read that certain ty...
How can I balance mulch type to promote beneficial organisms in my garden?
I'm currently experimenting with different types of mulch in my backyard garden, which is located in a temperate climate. I've used straw and wood chi...
Can I use garden waste as mulch without risking pest issues?
In my quest for sustainable gardening practices, I’ve been considering using my garden waste, like pruned branches and cuttings, as mulch for my flowe...
Can I compost citrus peels and onion scraps?
I'm really excited about composting, but I’ve got a question about some of the kitchen scraps I'm tossing in. I've heard mixed opinions about adding c...