This is going to be a dirty talk.
I found you sitting on a tree, broken bark and decaying debris exposed to the elements. A fragment of what was waiting to become what it is.
waiting. It is not that we are saved, but that we are found. It’s scooped up, delicately placed, purposefully placed, and anchored to roots, growth, and abundance. soil. mud.
Soil is important when growing things. Well, that's important anyway, but it's even more important if you're trying to grow things.
I'm a little impatient and a little lazy, so believe me when I say it's important. Did I say that out loud?
Soil is important.
Several years ago, I harvested tomatoes on the farm. This was my second job after finishing my job. We carried rows of five-gallon buckets onto the sand and sold tomatoes by the box. I remember picking up some dirt and running it through my fingers. It was sandy.
When it came to watermelons, I asked why they didn't plant them in the same place. She looked straight out the windshield, pinched the corner of her lips the only way she could, and said, “They don't like the same soil. I want a hamburger. Shall we go to Sonic?”
Well, that's right!
There was another 5 gallon bucket hidden behind a curtain in the back corner of the tomato coop, but I won't talk about that.
Prices vary, but here are some tips to point you in the right direction.
pot: Use potting soil. It sounds too simple, but if you plant your plants in pots with “garden soil” or garden soil, the drainage will not be suitable for plant growth. They are also very heavy, which can make it impossible to move larger items indoors during the winter. Plants that don't grow require a lot of effort.
Cacti and succulents: They hate wet feet. This means they prefer light, thick soil that dries quickly. Purchase soil specifically made for succulents. This is all my advice. Everyone knows I'm a graveyard for succulents.
Raised bed: It depends on what you are growing. For more information, please see the helpful links below. I like to use a 2:1 ratio of garden soil and potting soil. I prefer certain brands, including chunky ones, perlite, and ones that still break down.
Ran: Soil is very important. Most orchids are extraterrestrial. Wait, that's not true. Epiphyte, that's the word. They like to hang their roots out to dry like laundry. Once you have your orchid, it's time to examine it. Each one is different, and none of them prefer potting soil. They like the orchid mix.
If you are preparing to plant in the ground, or if the planting conditions are not good, get a soil test. You can use it anytime at the extension counter. By eliminating the guesswork, you can save a lot of money. Call your local Master Gardener office. They can get you there! https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/asset-external/building-a-raised-bed-garden/
— Ernie is a master gardener in Smith County. The Smith County Master Gardener Program is a volunteer organization associated with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.