Basic agronomics are necessary practices to achieve what most customers want in their landscapes, turf areas and nursery/greenhouse crops. Simply managing weeds, pests, diseases and fertility isn’t enough to accomplish what they want. A comprehensive agronomic program is necessary to deliver the quality and performance they want, and are paying for.
A complete program includes a long list of cultural and agronomic practices. From managing soil air to controlling zoospores, it is necessary to consider the full range of factors that influence plant health.
As is often the case with Mother Nature, some management areas become more important than others depending on environmental conditions. Of all the factors we can influence, air, water and nutrients are three of the most important.
Air is essential to plant growth because plants need to breathe both above and below ground level.
Above ground, plants require carbon dioxide for photosynthesis, the process that produces carbohydrates needed for growth and development. Below ground, roots require oxygen to function properly.
Healthy soils allow for the exchange of gases produced by roots and other soil organisms while continuously replenishing oxygen within the rootzone. When soils become compacted or lack sufficient pore space, this gas exchange is restricted, reducing soil root growth and ultimately plant health.
Practices such as aeration help improve soil porosity and promote the oxygenation necessary for healthy root growth and microbial activity.
Water is essential for survival, and plays a critical role in the movement of nutrients and other inputs throughout the soil profile.
Without adequate water, plants cannot survive, and neither can the countless microorganisms that contribute to a healthy soil ecosystem. Soil health depends on having sufficient moisture available to support all living organisms within it.
Proper water and moisture management help ensure moisture is available where and when plants need it.
Nutrients are essential for plant growth, development and overall health.
Plants that do not receive proper nutrition become weaker and more susceptible to both biotic and abiotic stresses. Providing adequate nutrition supports stronger growth, improved resilience, and better overall plant performance.
A sound agronomic program goes a long way towards improving soil conditions and supporting healthier plants.
The Aquatrols Company offers a wide-range of solutions designed to improve water-use efficiency, water management, and moisture management throughout the soil profile.
Managing soil, air, water and nutrition effectively are key agronomic practices that contribute to healthy soils, and healthy soils grow healthy plants.
