Welcome to our Stone Power blog, where love for the living earth is not only cultivated but celebrated. Today we're devoting ourselves to a topic of central importance to every true nature lover: producing your own humus —the gardener's gold.
In every crumb of healthy soil lies the secret of a flourishing garden. Humus is not simply a substance; it is a living creation born of devotion to nature. When we produce humus ourselves, we actively participate in the cycle of life and assume responsibility for the fertility of our planet. This practice is a profound expression of our love for the earth and demonstrates our willingness to nurture and care for it.
The production of humus is a creative and inspiring process that combines science and art. It's a procedure that requires not only knowledge of natural processes but also an intuitive understanding of the interplay of various organic components. Today, we've invited experts to guide us through the fascinating world of composting. They'll explain how, by properly blending materials like leaves, twigs, and kitchen scraps, with the addition of love and patience, you can create nutrient-rich soil, the heart of every garden.
Let's explore together how this creative passion nourishes not only our gardens but also our own inner growth. For the production of humus reflects the wonderful potential of human creativity—the ability to create life from the seemingly insignificant, thus making the world a better place, little by little.
Join us on this journey into the depths of the earth, back to the roots where all life begins.
Where does the word humus come from?
The word "humus" comes from Latin, where it originally means "earth" or "soil." In the context of soil science, humus describes the organic component of soil that results from the decomposition of plant and animal remains. This decomposition is primarily driven by soil microorganisms and leads to the formation of a dark, nutrient-rich substance that is essential for soil fertility.
Humus plays a central role in agricultural science and ecology, contributing to improving soil structure, increasing soil water retention, and binding nutrients essential for plant growth. In modern usage of the word in German and other languages, humus is often discussed in the context of composting and sustainable agriculture, where it is synonymous with high-quality, organically enriched soil.
The etymological root of the word, meaning “earth” or “soil” in Latin, underlines the fundamental importance of humus as the basis for fertile soil and a healthy ecosystem.
Why do you call it gardener's gold?
Humus is often referred to as "gardener's gold," a metaphor that underscores its enormous importance and value in horticulture and agriculture. Here are some reasons why humus is so valuable:
1. Improvement of soil structure
Humus plays a crucial role in improving the physical structure of the soil. It makes the soil looser and more crumbly, which improves aeration and drainage. This improved structure makes it easier for roots to grow and access the nutrients they need.
2. Water storage
Humus has a high water-holding capacity, meaning it can efficiently store water and release it to plants when needed. This is especially valuable during dry periods, as it reduces water requirements and the frequency of irrigation.
3. Nutrient supplier
It is rich in nutrients and plays an important role as a natural fertilizer. Humus provides essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in a form that plants can easily absorb. This promotes healthy plant growth and increases yields.
4. Promoting the microbiome
Humus is alive with microbiological activity. These microbes play a crucial role in soil ecological cycles, including the decomposition of organic matter and nutrient conversion, which in turn improves soil health and promotes plant growth.
5. Disease and pest resistance
Healthy soil with a high humus content also promotes plant resistance to certain diseases and pests. This reduces the need for chemical pesticides, which in turn protects the environment and supports sustainability.
6. Climate control
Humus also plays an important role in the carbon cycle. It binds carbon and thus contributes to reducing carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere. This makes it a key player in the fight against climate change.
All these properties make humus not only an invaluable component for healthy and productive gardens, but also an essential factor for sustainable agricultural practices. These diverse benefits make it a "golden" treasure for gardeners and farmers worldwide.
Workshop: Making healing compost soil “Kombooster”
Invitation to the Pulse Generator Workshop for more vitality in your environment
with the association’s experts Marcel Reja and Susanne Loibl, from the TerraFelix Institute – Association for the Research and Promotion of Vital Interrelations.
Saturday, May 25, 2024
10:00 a.m. to approximately 5:30 p.m.
Location: Spiegelsberg 5, 3362 Mauer
Theoretical part in the morning: in the dome room of Steinkraft
Humus, the basis of life on Mother Earth.
No matter from which field of study and from which perspective we approach the research into the vital connections of life, if we delve deep enough, we will always find ourselves at or in the ground.
As we explore humus more deeply, we delve into the fascinating world of minerals, microorganisms, electrons and magnetism.
Process:
10:00 – 12:00: Theory: What is healing compost? Ingredients, structure, soil organisms, paramagnetism
12:00 - 13:30: Lunch break - picnic with small buffet
13:30 – 17:30: Practice: Joint setting up of the healing clay combo booster
Contribution: € 25,- per person
We ask for your binding registration due to limited number of participants:
Steinkraft, Marika Sannegger 0660 – 821 80 20 or office@steinkraft-naturerocks.com
Bring work clothes and sturdy shoes!
We look forward to a revitalizing day together with you!
