HUMUS, when used as a soil amendment, is very beneficial in bringing life to your nearly dead sandy Central Florida soils. The beneficial microbial life (i.e., bacteria, fungi, and protozoa) have and are mineralizing calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and boron, which are found in abundant levels in a quality organically composted humus.
This is truly an amazing process designed by our Creator. Just imagine, all the microbiological activity that is occurring at a level unknown to the human eye, unless of course you have the aid of a microscope. All those little critters working on our behalf to eat and digest minerals and then turn them into something worthy for the benefit of the plants and trees that you and I are growing.
Have you ever wondered why that citrus tree in the oak hammock is thriving on its own? Well, many soil scientists will tell you that it is due to the microbiology at work via the humus buildup on the hammock floor. This naturally occurring phenomenon can be mimicked by applying organically composted humus in the canopied zone of your citrus grove.
Field trial studies in Polk County citrus groves have revealed that soil organic matter is increased significantly, as is the Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC), when humus is applied at rates of four to six tons per acre and six months later two to three tons per acre. The readily available mineral levels are actually holding in the soil and not being washed through our porous sands.
Remember, be kind to your soil!
This column is sponsored by P&H Solutions, Inc.
CREDIT
column by CARSON A. FUTCH
BIO: As the owner of P&H Solutions, Inc., Carson A. Futch assists growers in Central Florida with organically composted soil amendments and other crop-growing products. He is a Plant City native and a fifth-generation Florida cracker who grew up on a working ranch and citrus operation. He received his B.S. in Agriculture from the University of Florida in 1981. During the 34 years of his career, Carson has been involved in various management and ownership aspects of production agriculture, harvesting, marketing, and agri-tourism. He has also been blessed to serve on various councils and committees for the betterment of his church, community, and the agricultural industry.