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Is it necessary to dig up the soil in the greenhouse in the fall: secrets of ideal soil preparation for the new season
03.11.2024 05:20
Autumn soil cultivation in a greenhouse is a key stage in preparation for the new summer cottage season.
Proper digging of the soil becomes the key to an excellent harvest and healthy plants next year.
Important information on this matter was shared by the expert of the online publication "BelNovosti", scientist-agronomist and landscape designer Anastasia Kovrizhnykh.
Benefits of autumn digging
Autumn digging of the soil has a beneficial effect on its structure. The soil dug in autumn is saturated with oxygen, becomes looser and more pliable.
Natural processes that occur in winter help improve the quality of the soil. Frosts destroy pests and their larvae that remain in the soil after harvesting.
Preparing for digging
Before starting work, the greenhouse should be cleared of plant debris. Removing old stems, roots and leaves prevents the development of diseases and the appearance of pests.
The application of organic fertilizers occurs immediately before digging the soil.
Methods of digging a greenhouse
There are several methods of soil cultivation. Deep digging is suitable for heavy soils, its depth is 25-30 cm.
Surface loosening is used on light soils; it is sufficient to process the top layer to a depth of 15-20 cm.
Features of the process
Digging is done with a shovel or garden fork. The soil is turned over in layers, breaking up large clods.
It is important to maintain the lumpy structure of the soil, which provides better aeration and moisture retention.
When digging is undesirable
There are situations when it is better to avoid digging. On sandy soils, surface loosening is sufficient.
When using natural farming technology, deep soil cultivation can disrupt natural processes.
Additional activities
After you have dug up the soil, it is advisable to cover its surface with a layer of mulch.
This will help protect the soil from freezing, retain moisture, and prevent unwanted plants from growing. Peat, sawdust, or straw can be used as mulch.
Timeframe for the work
The optimal time for digging up the greenhouse comes after the last harvest.
The air temperature should be positive, the soil should be sufficiently moist, but not wet. Such conditions are usually observed in mid- or late autumn.
