Soil blocking is a method of starting plants from seeds that offers several benefits. One of the main advantages is that it provides less shock to the root systems of the plants. When seeds are started in traditional pots or trays, the roots can become tangled and disturbed when transplanting them into the ground or larger containers. This can lead to stunted growth and a weaker overall plant.
However, with soil blocking, the plants are grown in small, compact blocks of soil. These blocks are formed using a specialized tool that compresses the soil into a solid shape. Because the blocks are self-contained, the roots are not disturbed when it comes time to transplant them. This results in healthier and stronger plants overall.
I have personally experienced the benefits of soil blocking in my own gardening endeavors. In the past, I would start my seeds in plastic trays with individual cells. While this method worked to some extent, I noticed that the plants seemed to struggle when I transplanted them into the ground. Their growth was slow and they often wilted in the process.
After learning about soil blocking, I decided to give it a try. I invested in a soil blocking tool and started my seeds in small blocks of soil. The results were remarkable. The plants grew much stronger and healthier compared to previous years. They had a vigorous growth spurt after being transplanted outside and showed no signs of wilting or stress.
Another benefit of soil blocking is that it allows for better air circulation and water drainage. The compact nature of the soil blocks ensures that excess water can drain away easily, preventing issues such as root rot. Additionally, the open structure of the blocks allows for air to reach the roots, promoting healthier growth.
Soil blocking also reduces the need for plastic pots or trays, which can be environmentally unfriendly. The blocks can be made using a mixture of compost, peat moss, and vermiculite, which are all natural and sustainable materials. This aligns with sustainable gardening practices and reduces waste.
Soil blocking is definitely worth considering for starting plants from seeds. The benefits of less root disturbance, stronger and healthier plants, improved air circulation, and water drainage make it a valuable technique for gardeners. I have seen firsthand the positive effects of soil blocking on my plants, and I highly recommend giving it a try.
