Potatoes are one of the most common and favorite plants in our gardens, but after harvesting, it is necessary to take care of the soil renovation. Potatoes are intensively exploiting soil nutrients, so it is important to take some measures to return the land to a healthy condition and prepare for the next season. In this article we will discuss the most important steps to restore the soil after potatoes.
Improvement of soil after potatoes using sand and organic fertilizer
Let’s start with the soil structure. If your soil is heavy and poorly permeable, it is recommended to add sand to it to improve aeration and drainage. This will help the roots get enough air and moisture. 2-3 kilograms of sand per square meter is sufficient to make the soil softer and more favorable to plant roots.
In addition to sand, it is very important to use organic fertilizers. It can be compost, collapsed manure or grass clips. Organic fertilizers help restore soil microflora, enrich it with humus and improve overall yields, which is especially important after which intensively uses nutrients.
Soil pH adjustment and mineral fertilizer
Another important step is to determine the acidity of the soil. If the soil is too acidic, it can be adjusted using dolomite flour or lime. This process should be done in the fall, but it may be necessary to repeat the spring to maintain a balanced pH level.
In addition, fertilization of potassium and phosphorus fertilizer is very important in the fall, as these substances are essential for the restoration of soil after potato growing. Potatoes use these elements very intensively, so their deficiency can affect next year’s harvest. It is recommended to use superphosphate – about 60 g per square meter, and potassium magnesium – about 30 g of the same area.
Planting rotation and green fertilizer cultivation
The long -term soil restoration method is a very important and long -term method of planting. This practice helps prevent the use of certain nutrients and prevents the accumulation of pests and diseases. After potatoes, it is recommended to avoid planting other nights of plants such as tomatoes, peppers or eggplants for 2-3 years. It is best to grow legumes (peas, beans) in these places, which naturally enrich the soil with nitrogen, or cereals, root vegetables (carrots, beets) and cabbage vegetables.
Green fertilizers such as mustard, facelia or lupina also perfectly improve the soil structure and add valuable organic matter.
Soil renewal after potato growing is necessary to ensure a good harvest next year. A combination of sand, organic fertilizer, pH adjusting and planting rotation will help restore soil yield and protect it from diseases and pests. With proper care of the soil, potatoes and other plants will be able to grow healthy and produce abundant yields.
Source: Uk. Media
Photos associative © canva.
