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Madera, CA

I just got my soil test back an my OM is down at 3.5%. Is there something I can till in to increase the OM with planting only 5-6 weeks away. I do have some pretty good temps now but I don't want anything that will increase salininty. Any ideas?

3/8/2012 9:24:49 PM

Www.extremepumpkinstore.com

Marty, raising the organic matter can be done with compost, well composted manure, even granular humic acid will raise your organic matter, but be advised, too much organic matter in areas that have high heat and humidity is a recipe for disaster. By raising your organic matter in southern climates, or climates that are prone to hot humid days, you are actually creating a perfect enviroment for pathogens.

3/8/2012 10:51:23 PM

Williamsburg,KY

Tom, what would you say is too much organic matter in southern climates?

3/9/2012 7:26:45 AM

Ontario

You could try peat moss,it is considered a low test addition(compost and manure being high test)but you would want to watch the ph.as it is acidic,but a fairly sterile addition,low on pathogens.But it is OM Terry

3/9/2012 8:45:10 PM

Madera, CA

Thanks for the advice

3/9/2012 11:29:32 PM

Citrus Heights, CA

Marty,
Send me an e-mail and enclude your soil test. I will see what I can do.
ron.root@comcast.net

3/9/2012 11:53:47 PM

Citrus Heights, CA

sorry "include"

3/9/2012 11:59:35 PM

churchville, ny

Meaford is correct about acidity of peat moss (pH is 3-3.5) - what was your pH? Our town has free year old composted leaf mulch that I use every year - is there anything similar available in Madera?

3/10/2012 12:48:15 PM

Madera, CA

I need to check on that swaintech. The pH is 6.9.

3/10/2012 1:15:12 PM

Madera, CA

meaford,

What do you mean by low test?

3/10/2012 3:40:53 PM

churchville, ny

I think Terry means that peat moss is like low octane gas - it will cause a dramatic change, give you alot of power or burn anything up. Fresh manure would be like high test where it could burn the plant - gentleman start your engines.

3/10/2012 5:04:11 PM

Madera, CA

Thanks for the help.

3/10/2012 10:22:39 PM