Hot, dry conditions can quickly expose weaknesses in a landscape. By the time plants are visibly wilting or declining, the underlying problem may have been developing below the surface for some time.

For those responsible for establishing and maintaining public landscapes, preparing soils before conditions become challenging can help create landscapes that are better equipped to cope with periods of heat and reduced water availability.

Healthy soil is an important part of that preparation. Good soil structure allows water to penetrate rather than simply running off the surface, while also helping retain moisture where plant roots can access it. Developing strong, healthy root systems gives plants access to a greater volume of soil, helping them make better use of available water and nutrients.

Plant nutrition also plays an important role. Plants require a broad spectrum of minerals to support healthy growth and normal plant functions. Beneficial soil microbes can assist by helping cycle nutrients and supporting a more active soil environment.

Together, these factors help create a stronger foundation before environmental stress occurs.

This is particularly important in public landscapes, where increasing irrigation or replacing struggling plants can add significantly to water, labour and ongoing maintenance costs. Taking a preventative approach to soil health can help landscapes establish more successfully and remain healthier when conditions become difficult.

Mulching, appropriate irrigation practices, suitable plant selection and good soil preparation all have a role to play. Earthlife’s microbial-infused rock mineral soil conditioners and fertilisers can form part of this approach by providing a broad spectrum of minerals while supporting beneficial soil biology.

The aim isn’t to make landscapes immune to heat or dry conditions. It is to give plants and soils a better foundation from which to respond. As summer approaches, the question for landscape managers shouldn’t simply be “How much will we need to water?” It should also be “Is the soil ready to make the most of the water we have?”

FROM THE INDUSTRY

“We use Earthlife on all our plant stock as soon as it arrives in stores, as well as in our landscaping projects and under turf. We have noticed dramatic increases in plant colour and growth, and found our gardens require less water,” Jason Kay, CEO, iLandscape

Healthier soil, healthier plants... it is that simple. Visit Earthlife via the links below to learn more.