2.3.5 Irrigation Potting Mixes: A good mix for tender and fertile soil are• Peat - decomposed organic matter harvested from acidic wetlands. • Perlite - volcanic mineral that expands on heating • Coarse sand. Soil needs peat and perlite to hold moisture and nutrients while coarse sand help drains extra water. Foliage plants need high levels of organic matter. Cacti and other succulents need coarse sand for proper drainage of water. Potting mixes should avoid normal outside garden soil. Bagged potting soil is sterile, but have a high level of salts and drainage problems which may cause fungus and moulds. For specific plants, the nutrient can be added using fertilizers. Containers The size of the container depends on the size of the plant. Plants can be grown on these types of containers: • Glazed clay (ceramic) pot • Plastic pot • Clay pot • Metal pot • Wood pot All pots should have a drainage hole in the bottom of the pot. The container must be large enough to provide enough space for root growth for at least one year.
2.3.6 Watering One of the major cause leading to plant’s death is improper watering. Source - the water should be delivered through the 1-inch pipeline and water temperature should be between 15℃ to 21℃. Water should always be tested and deionized if a high level of soluble salts is found i.e. above or equal to 200 ppm. Drainage –drainage is important for the healthy growth of roots. Improper drainage can cause roots to rot. The drainage slope should be greater than 3-degree and less than a 20-degree angle. Plants should be watered when the soil becomes dry. When plants are overwatered, the roots of plants don’t function properly due to lack of oxygen.
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