DEMANDING! PLANTS ARE SO

Written by: Annmarie H.

Plants may seem like simple creatures, but don’t be fooled by their lack of a nervous system or a mouth to speak with. They are actually quite demanding when it comes to their nutritional needs. In fact, plants are the original foodies, with a long list of dietary requirements that would make any chef’s head spin.

First up on the plant foodie menu is nitrogen. These green guys simply can’t get enough of it. They want it in the soil, they want it in the air, they want it in their water, and they want it in their snacks. Nitrogen is like the caviar of the plant world, and they won’t settle for anything less.

But nitrogen is just the beginning. Plants also crave potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium. And let’s not forget about the trace minerals like iron, zinc, and copper. These are the plant equivalent of superfoods, and they’ll stop at nothing to get their fill.

And don’t even get me started on their hydration needs. These plants are like toddlers with sippy cups, constantly demanding to be watered. They want their water—not too hot, not too cold, not too hard, not too soft.

And if you forget to water them for even one day, they’ll throw a tantrum and wilt faster than a balloon at a birthday party.

But it’s not just about what they eat and drink. Plants also want the right ambiance to set the mood for their growth. They want the perfect balance of light and dark, warm and cool, dry and humid. It’s like they’re trying to recreate a spa experience in their own little corner of the world.

And let’s not forget about their social needs. Plants need friends, too. They want to be planted in just the right spot, surrounded by other plants who share their interests and complement their colors. They want to be part of a community, where they can gossip about the weather and trade tips on photosynthesis.

So, the next time you’re out in the garden, remember that you’re not just dealing with plants. You’re dealing with plant foodies, with an insatiable appetite for nutrients, hydration, ambiance, and social interaction. And if you want them to thrive, you’d better be prepared to meet their demands.

he future of farming depends on the health of our soil. Without healthy soil, crops won’t grow, and we won’t be able to sustainably feed our growing population.

That’s why it’s crucial that we start paying attention to soil health now, before it’s too late.

So, what exactly does soil health mean?

Essentially, it refers to the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil that allow it to support plant growth. This includes things like nutrient levels, soil structure, water-holding capacity, and the presence of microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. Do you know the health of your soil?