Thanks for the response, my lab did not provide any optimal parameters and this was helpful.
My phosphorus is high, which I think explains why some of my plants are exhibiting signs of zinc and iron deficiencies and poor growth overall. This may be because our
compost contains large amounts of animal manure (
chicken mainly). So, this year I think I will plant phosphorus loving veggies/plants (
root veggies, tomatoes) as well as nitrogen fixing plants since I won't apply compost. The test shows zinc and iron levels ok, so
should I just leave that alone since I am trying to correct the phosphorus level?
I had tomatoes and peppers that had some blossom end rot last season so I assumed calcium level/uptake was off. The calcium is showing low in
greenhouse 1, but the pH is 6.9, so I am thinking I need to add calcium??? How do I add calcium and lower ph at the same time?
The potassium is high but I really don't know what to do about that. I know it can disrupt uptake of other nutrients (nitrogen, calcium, magnesium), maybe this is another reason for blossom- end rot and poor growth? I would think that integrating legumes would help.
I know sphagnum peat will lower the ph and add organic matter, so I think that may be a good idea.
I know I have to be careful of trying to adjust too many things at once because I can really mess things up, so I would really appreciate any advice on where to start first. I am a newbie to soil health and am trying to learn and appreciate any and all advice!!!
Thank You!!!