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Soil Organic Material or SOM is the foundation where the plants we grow get their nutrition. These nutrients are locked away within the plant fibers until it is broken down and ultimately released. This release is accomplished by the various de-constructors that live within the soil. We looked at them in the blog "Beneath the Surface". Each of these various agents are created to aid in the decomposition of the plants to release what some refer to as the ANDI or “Aggregate Nutrient Density Index.” As each plant grows, it absorbs certain nutrients from the previous generation of decomposing plant life that...

Something is missing In my last blog, I discussed some of the life activities that take place in Beneath the surface. The activities of these organisms are the source for how the plants we raise get their nutrients. But just where do these organisms their sustenance? These organisms, much like us, can get their sustenance from either organic or chemical (manmade) compounds. Think of it like setting down and eating an organic meal of meat, potatoes and vegetables, verses a meal made of powdered energy drinks and pills. Both scenarios can provide the basics of what a body needs, but...

In my a recent blog (Five tips to quality Gardening), I mentioned that there is a difference between dirt and soil. Dirt is basically varying amounts of sand, silt and clay. Dirt in and of itself contains no minerals, nutrients nor the living organisms that makes up soil. Dirt lacks the texture and structure that is needed to produce the life that comes from soil. Soil on the other hand is a living by product of its many components. Soil that is well balanced will have a relationship with the plants that live in it. Its balance comes from a...

Organic gardening, just what is it? A simple governmental definition is as follows; if there is such one. USDA certified organic foods are grown and processed according to federal guidelines addressing, among many factors, soil quality, animal raising practices, pest and weed control, and use of additives. Organic producers rely on natural substances and physical, mechanical, or biologically based farming methods to the fullest extent possible.[1] But is organic more than just meeting a bunch of federal regulations that avoids the use of chemicals on your garden. For many people, organic gardening is simply using the produce of nature itself...