Glossary Terms – Everything about Gardening

Composting is decomposing organic matter, such as kitchen scraps and garden waste, to create a nutrient-rich soil amendment known as compost. Importance in Gardening How to Start a Compost Pile Maintaining a Compost Pile Using Compost in the Garden

Germination is the process by which a seed develops into a new plant. This involves the seed absorbing water, swelling, and eventually sprouting, with the emergence of the seedling’s root (radicle) and shoot (plumule). Importance in Gardening Stages of Germination Factors Affecting Germination Tips for Successful Germination Why Needed

Nutrient levels refer to the concentration of essential nutrients in the soil, such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), which are crucial for plant growth and development. Importance in Gardening: Key Nutrients: Testing Nutrient Levels: Adjusting Nutrient Levels: Related Articles: Gardening 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Starting Your First Garden

Organic matter refers to decomposed plant and animal residues used to improve soil structure and fertility. It includes materials like compost, manure, leaf litter, and other natural decomposed materials. Importance in Gardening Also Read: What is Composting? Sources of Organic Matter Benefits of Adding Organic Matter How to Add Organic Matter to Soil

Seed starting is the practice of germinating seeds indoors under controlled conditions and then transplanting the young seedlings outdoors into the garden. Importance in Gardening Steps for Seed Starting

Soil aeration is the process of introducing air into the soil, which improves root respiration and enhances microbial activity. Proper aeration allows oxygen to reach plant roots and soil microorganisms, which are essential for healthy plant growth. Importance in Gardening Methods of Soil Aeration Signs That Soil Needs Aeration Benefits of Soil Aeration How to…

Soil pH is the measure of the acidity or alkalinity of the soil, expressed on a scale from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral, below 7 is acidic, and above 7 is alkaline. Importance in Gardening Testing Soil pH Adjusting Soil pH

Soil structure refers to the arrangement of soil particles (sand, silt, and clay) and the pore spaces between them. This arrangement affects water movement, air flow, and root growth in the soil. Also Read: Soil pH Importance in Gardening Types of Soil Structure Improving Soil Structure Testing Soil Structure Benefits of Good Soil Structure