Microbiology in Soil

Importance of Microbiology in Soil

Soil microbiology is essential in maintaining all necessary needs of any plant. In addition, the lack of proper soil microbiology, affects all factors of soil health. Another key point, your media will definitely be insufficient. By this we mean things such as pH, ppm, EC, nutritional uptake, etc. All components of soil go hand in hand to achieve the perfect soil balance. One component cannot be right without the balance of all the others.

Microbiology occurs mainly in the top layers of soil where there is enough air to support microbial activity. Equally important, any additions of microbiology enhancers should be top dressed or added by watering supplementation.

How does pH affect Soil?

pH influences the occurrence and distribution of microorganisms. Most microbial processes are reduced in low pH soil microbiology because growth and reproduction of the soil microbes, primarily bacteria and fungi, are reduced. Micro-organisms break down organic matter and use the carbon and nutrients for their own growth.

EC & PPM for Soil

EC is the only true measurement not needing conversion, EC always remains the same. PPM needs a special meter to match the nutrients you are using. Formula= EC X 500 = TDS (or PPM 500); Example: 1.00 EC = 500 ppm. Choose your EC levels by the method that you use to grow. Examples: Hydroponics, Soilless media with nutrients, super soil, or outside. Above all, do your homework to ensure the proper microbiology in soil you plan on using.

Summation

Remember, moisture is crucial for true readings on both EC and ph. With this being said, be diligent with your measurements! All things considered, when you tune in your soil needs properly then nutritional uptake will take care of itself.