Development of soil amendment recommendations should be based on
- soil analysis results (i.e., physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil)
- consideration of plant type(s)
- plant nutrient requirements
- improving structure, drainage, and moisture retention
- reducing compaction
- improving aeration.
Process/Skill Questions:
- What information is given in a soil analysis?
- How many pounds of fertilizer will one need to apply to one’s lawn at a rate of 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of a 50-pound bag of 26-5-10?
- How much phosphate and potash is one applying to a lawn when one applies 3.8 pounds of 26-5-10 fertilizer per 1,000 square feet?
- How much area can be covered with a 50-pound bag of 26-5-10 fertilizer at the rate of 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet?
- How many 50-pound bags of 26-5-10 will one need to fertilize a 30,000-square-foot lawn at 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet?
- What are the differences among chemical, physical, and biological properties of the soil?
- Why is knowledge of a plant species important when making nutrient recommendations?