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FairchildTropicalBotanicGardenDEMO

edible gardening Got mulch? Recycling plant material for use as mulch or compost is an environmentally sound way to enrich our South Florida soils. By Richard Campbell, Ph.D. M fall 2016 57 Our soils in coastal South Florida are shallow and composed of mostly nutrient-poor, high pH rock or sand. We have a monsoonal climate with a rainy, hot summer and dry, cool winter; summers bring the threat of tropical cyclones; and winters bring the occasional killing frost. Yet, given these edaphic (soil) and climatic limitations, there are ways to enhance our growing and gardening experience. ulching and composting offer the most environmentally sound method for us to improve our soil fertility. No plant material should ever leave your home garden. All plant debris, including leaves, twigs and branches, can be cut into small pieces and placed within the mulch or compost pile, either beneath a pruned tree or in designated areas. The circle of life and nutrient cycle will both now be realized to their fullest. Instead of losing this energy- and nutrient-rich organic matter and filling local landfills, plant material is recycled for use as mulch or compost in the vegetable garden and throughout the home garden. As a seasoned home gardener you have no doubt heard the party line: Mulch and compost are the cure for everything from poor tree growth and insect control to improving the health of the Florida Bay. Well, it turns out that these mulch- and compost-mongers are right—these activities really are essential for home gardening in South Florida. A consistent mulching program will allow you to convert your home landscape into an organic system that relies on nature’s way and will change your entire gardening demeanor. No more need for commercial fertilizers and pesticides—only a firm pruning hand, a heightened ecological understanding and appreciation for the cycles of life.


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