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24.06.2024
Terra Preta, the "black earth", was already being extracted centuries ago by indigenous peoples of the Amazon basin. biochar Terra Preta was produced. Indigenous cultures were able to improve the nutrient-poor soil of the rainforest and keep it permanently fertile thanks to this material. That in itself is impressive.
The soil in the Amazon basin is actually not suitable for agriculture. At first glance, tropical soils appear to be very fertile, as they produce an enormous variety of plants and animals. However, they only have a thin layer of humus. If the rainforest is cleared, the humus is broken down in a very short time and the nutrients are washed away with the abundant rain. Terra Preta enabled these early indigenous cultures to build up the humus layer and thus keep the soil permanently fertile for agriculture.
Terra Preta as storage
Due to its porous structure, biochar has a large surface area. This allows it to store water and nutrients particularly well. Furthermore, biochar is mixed with other materials such as compost, manure, urine, Worm compost or enriched with bone meal.
What you can achieve with Terra Preta:
- Increase water storage capacity and improve water balance in the soil.
- Improve soil and maintain soil fertility over longer periods
- Storing carbon dioxide in the soil
- The improved soil structure allows trees to absorb nutrients more efficiently and grow healthier.
In this article you will find more information about the Fertilizing trees.
How is Terra Preta made?
Terra Preta is often produced through pyrolysis: branches and logs are chopped up and carbonized in a carbonization plant at temperatures between 450 and 600 degrees Celsius. This means that more carbon remains bound in the coal, which can then be introduced into the soil.
Recommended reading
Terra Preta. The black revolution from the rainforest. Save the world with climate gardens and produce healthy food. Published by the foundation community anstiftung & ertomis Oekom.
Additional information
This one Link to the Biochar Association
Natural fertilization and activation of soil life
The power of the soil
Tips, knowledge and practical advice for strong trees
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Trees need nutrients to grow healthily. In many gardens or cities, these nutrients are lacking in the soil, for example, because leaves are removed or the soil is heavily used. Appropriate fertilization can help improve the soil and support tree growth. However, it's important not to fertilize simply "on a hunch," as some soils already contain sufficient nutrients.
Organic fertilizers like compost or worm castings work more slowly, but improve the soil in the long term and promote soil life. Mineral fertilizers work faster, but usually only provide individual nutrients. For many trees, organic fertilization is the more sustainable solution in the long run.
Yes, that can be very helpful. A soil sample can determine which nutrients are present in the soil and which are lacking. The pH value is also measured. This allows you to fertilize the tree precisely and avoid over-fertilizing. A simple soil analysis usually only costs around [price missing]. €20–40.
A nutrient deficiency can manifest itself, for example, through yellow or pale leaves, weak growth or few flowers show. However, similar symptoms can also be caused by drought or compacted soil These problems arise. Therefore, you should always check first whether the tree is getting enough water.
Yes, that's possible. Irrigation bags release water slowly into the soil. When liquid fertilizer is mixed with water, it reaches the root zone evenly. This way, a large portion of the soil around the tree comes into contact with the nutrient solution.
The best time to fertilize is usually in spring and early summerFertilizing is best when the tree is growing and producing new leaves. During this phase, the tree can absorb nutrients particularly well. Very late fertilization in autumn is usually not advisable.
The soil is home to many microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and earthworms. They break down organic matter and make nutrients available to plants. Active soil life therefore helps trees absorb water and nutrients more effectively. Organic fertilizers can support this soil life.
Great idea, easy handling and everything from ordering to delivery.
Michael K.