Learning The “Secrets” of
What is the benefit of horticulture? When analyzing this question, the minds of many will quickly jump to the need for nutrition. Although it is true that the yields of much horticultural produce are food products, there are many other benefits associated with horticulture. Unknown to many, horticulture is therapeutic to many people. It helps to alleviate anxiety and keep people’s minds off destructive behavior. It is equally a source of beauty and elegance. This beauty is experienced through flowers and landscapes attraction.
When it comes to horticulture, it has to be done right to achieve the desired outcomes. Whether one’s objective is to go small scale or large scale, it is important to familiarize oneself with the basics of horticulture management. In essence, such an individual should get basic training on plant selection, soil management, pest eradication, and water management skills. Short and full courses are available in relevant learning institutions as well as online. This article will deliberate important truths about horticultural training.
When it comes to horticulture, the farmer or entrepreneur has to decide on the scale that they are willing to undertake or invest in. This may range from container gardening, backyard gardening, landscaping, or large scale farming. The type of plant and scale of the horticultural investment dictates the investment capital, expert human resource requirement, tools requirement as well as water requirement.
Regardless of the scale of farming, it has to be done somewhere using soil. The investor must understand the soil science to determine which crops will flourish in the area that they intend to garden. Further, the investor has to understand the quality of soil to determine if additional nutrients are needed for the plant that they have in mind. Some plants require acidic soils while others require alkaline soils. Equally, different plants require different nutrient and mineral composition and content in the soil. Some soils retain moisture for long durations of time while others don’t. The farmer, landscaper, or investor must understand their soil type and compare that to their crop requirement.
Once the investor has identified the horticultural plant that they wish to venture into, they should identify the best seed supplier. Seeds and seedlings should be sourced from certified and reputable suppliers. The quality of a plant and its yield begins from the quality seeds and seedlings. Horticultural training equips the farmer or investor with the understanding and knowledge of plant management right from the seedling stage to maturity. Armed with such knowledge, the farmer carries out timely provision of nutrients, pruning, and weeding. Further such a farmer understands proper pest identification and management skills, as well as irrigation requirements for their plants.
Another area of training that is often ignored by many investors and farmers is the tool requirement. The use of proper tools and the proper use of the tools can determine the success or failure of a horticulture investment. When it comes to tools one size does not fit all. Different tools are used for digging, planting, weeding, pruning, and harvesting diverse horticultural crops. The farmer or investor should familiarize themselves with and understand the different tool requirements for their horticultural plants.
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