GenAcres Homestead

Leaf mold A free, readily-available resource! Leaf mold (leaf compost) is quite simply decomposed leaves. It is one of the best soil amendments you can use to bring new life to your soil. It has a texture much like compost, dark brown to black, and has an earthy aroma.  Leaf mold acts mainly as a soil conditioner by improving the soil structure. It WILL NOT add nutrition to your garden plants but it will enhance the condition of your soil creating a soil that is rich in calcium and magnesium and is less prone to compaction.

Composting 101 A Little Art and a Little Science Composting, in a nutshell, is turning your waste into nutrient-rich soil for use in your garden. You can read about the subject in such depth as to make your head swim and find it to be quite overwhelming. But whether you start with a compost bin or a designated 3 foot by 3-foot area, knowing a few basic principles will help you achieve that rich, earthy-smelling soil amendment that we all want.

    Refreshing Potting Soil Leftover potting soil can look a bit spent after a year or two, but experts agree that it still has life-giving potential, especially if you take the time to condition it properly.  Once you learn the basics of healthy soil, you'll be able to recharge last year's potting soil and save a lot of money by doing so.

    Best Soil for Hosta Plants If you've heard that hostas can grow in any soil type, even poor soil, that's not exactly true. While established hostas tend to become comfortable in any soil over time, they certainly won't thrive and retain the beautiful leaves that you grow them for. Young hostas planted in poor soil will eventually succumb to disease and die. If you want your hostas to thrive, the key is soil that is rich. The ideal soil pH for hostas ranges from 6.5 to 7.5, which actually means it's slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. 

  Two Free Soil Amendments - -   Leaf Mold and Compost Every gardener knows the health of their soil is one of the most important factors in achieving a successful gardening season.  Here are two FREE renewable resources that you have on hand that will save you money and build up your soil!

Make your own Potting Soil and Save Money! Although commercial bagged potting soils have the advantage of being convenient and disease-free, the expense of it alone, especially for a large garden, can make learning to make your own potting mix a very valuable endeavor.