Soil, The Key To Organic Gardening

Organic Matter and pH                                             1 lecture                      5:04   

Stressing the importance of organic matter, I discuss how it is the life blood of the soil. I delve into how it works within the soil, the type of soil tests that are necessary and how pH levels contribute to or destroy the soil restoration process as well as the importance of a balance pH.

Soil Microorganism                                                     1 lecture                      3:12

I explore the various microorganisms and the role each plays within the soil. I look at how these move up the chain and support the soil’s health as key helpers and how we can deal with soil differently.

Bacteria                                                                       1 lecture                    6:48

I explain why bacteria is so important and the role it plays in the soil. I cover the different types of bacteria we find in the soil, the difference between aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, and the role each plays.

Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria - I explain how this especial bacteria can be used and explore the fungi-bacteria intricate relationship and its impact on the soil pH.    

Fungi                                                                           1 lecture                    6:07

I acknowledge fungi as good guys and discuss the role they play in fertilization, the availability of mycorrhizae and how they work to restore your soil. 

What Kills Bacteria and Fungi                                   1 lecture                      2:10

I portray the various cultural practices that destroy these organisms and the impact that fertilizer and machinery has on microbial populations. 

Protozoa                                                                          1 lecture                      2:09

I explore the role protozoa have in the soil food chain and their contribution. I explain their eating habits and how they benefit plants as well as how they impact nematodes. 

Nematodes and Worms                                            1 lecture                      7:20

I discuss the difference between nematodes and worms and their role in the food web. I review the relationship that exists between protozoa and bacteria. I portray why worms are critical, the impact they have on the soil and how to keep them alive and growing. I inform you about various causes that destroy worms and how certain cultural practices destroy our soil and the worms. 

Conclusion on Soil Section                                       1 lecture                      1:58

The goals you should strive for, and a general overview of the actions necessary in order to keep the soil alive. 

Chemical Versus Organic Fertilization                       1 lecture                              5:19

Here I cover how synthetic chemical fertilizers get absorbed as well as their impact on the soil; the availability of various organic fertilizers and the role organic matter has on fertilization. I will talk about conditioners found in organic fertilizers and what is used to make organic fertilizers.

Biosolids as Organic Fertilizers                             1 lecture                              3:20

Here I will consider questions like: What are biosolids and where do they come from? What are some of the potential problems when using them long term?              

Types of Organic Fertilizers                                   1 lecture                              4:40

The various types of organic fertilizers are discussed, along with some of the liquid fertilizers, such as compost aerated tea and when to apply them.

Use of Organic Fertilizers/ Conclusion                                1 lecture              3:09

I explore why organic matter needs to be part of the fertilization process, the contribution organic matter has on the soil and the various ways we can improve the soil.  Lastly, I will offer a summary and conclusion.