Healthy soils are the key to a healthy planet. They provide the foundation for our work and increase a plant's ability to thrive (or even survive) exponentially. Taking a comprehensive soil test is standard practice in the care of our properties and provides a baseline upon which we can achieve optimal health.
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Our natural ecosystem thrives when carbon is drawn down into the soil through the process of photosynthesis or when organic matter decomposes. Carbon nourishes microbes in the soil and creates the conditions to trap more moisture - which in turn promotes better growth. There is also widespread evidence that drawing carbons into our soils is the key to reversing global warming.* Sadly, soils in our urban forests are often overlooked as a critical element of plant health. Neglecting their care can have a devastating effect on trees that have been placed in a “manufactured” urban setting. When planted outside of their natural environment, we must be particularly diligent to create the conditions which most closely simulate a forested landscape, in order to thrive as nature intended. The first step in working with new clients is to evaluate their soil health and determine a baseline from which to develop the best plant health care program.
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Natural enhancements, like compost tea applications, infuse life giving microbes that nourish the trees. Our integrative approach to plant health care is to build up the strength, health and resilience of the tree so it can withstand future stress.
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* Check out these entertaining videos and documentaries on the critical role healthy soils play in the future of our planet!
The Compost Story - Kiss the Ground (7 minutes)
The Soil Story By Pashon Murray - Kiss The Ground (3:17 minutes)​
KissTheGroundMovie.com (full length documentary)