Over time, the soil in greenhouses becomes fatigued by the constant repetition of planting and constant cultivation. This affects yields, which become smaller each year. However, many people successfully prevent further soil depletion and restore former yields, although this is a rather lengthy process. Methods for combating "fatigue" are selected depending on the underlying problem that has reduced soil fertility.
What is earth fatigue?
Soil fatigue is primarily a decline in the yield of crops planted on a plot. It is associated with a decline in soil fertility. However, signs of soil fatigue include not only a significant reduction in yield, but also a deterioration in its quality, a reduced shelf life of harvested fruits, and plant diseases. Growing fruits and vegetables in the same place for an extended period leads to a number of negative consequences, which, in turn, lead to a decline in soil fertility:
- Each crop requires a specific set of micro- and macronutrients for growth and development, which they obtain from the soil. If plants are not repotted, a severe deficiency of these nutrients will develop over time.
- Some plants (for example, beets, peas) saturate the soil with substances that are poisonous to themselves, as well as to nearby crops.
- Plants belonging to the same family transmit diseases to each other through the soil.
Processes such as soil oxidation, adding the wrong fertilizers or exceeding the required dose cause fatigue.
Ways to combat the problem
They are planted in a greenhouse green manure– this is the most common way to remedy the situation. Such crops quickly form a large amount of green mass (for example, rye, rapeseed, oats, and watercress). The roots and shoots of green manure crops are a storehouse of nutrients and microorganisms.
To plant these crops, loosen the top layer of soil and add nitroammophoska (approximately 25 g per square meter). Don't let the green manures grow too long, otherwise their stems will become tough and take a long time to decompose. Therefore, when the green manure reaches 15-20 cm in height, they are mown down and left until spring. When warm weather arrives, the cut greens are buried to a depth of 2-3 cm. The decaying plant parts enrich the soil with nutrients and attract earthworms, which loosen the soil, improve its health, and aerate it. After a couple of weeks, the main crops are planted in the prepared area.
You may be interested in:The second method for combating greenhouse soil fatigue is proper crop rotation, which refers to the order in which crops are planted in specific beds. This takes into account the recommended return times for different plants and their interactions with their predecessors.
| Time of return | Culture |
| 2-3 years | Radish, radish, beans |
| 3-5 years | Peas, onions |
| 4-5 years | Cabbage, carrots, peppers, parsley, beets, tomatoes |
Crops are rotated based on their influence on each other. Cucurbitaceae family members make excellent predecessors for any plant. Legumes, onions, and garlic are also good options. However, nightshades and mid-season or late-season cabbage require more careful crop rotation.
The influence of soil composition
Fertilizers (organic or mineral) can help ensure a bountiful harvest in greenhouses. A nutritious infusion of cut grass is a good natural fertilizer. To prepare it, chop the greens, add water, and cover the container with a lid. Stir the solution periodically. It is usually ready in 2-3 weeks. To fertilize garden beds, dilute the mixture with water at a ratio of 1:5. Alternative organic fertilizers include bird droppings, manure, compost, and river silt. These are applied to the soil in the fall or spring at a rate of 2-3 kg per square meter. Use complex mineral fertilizers instead of organic ones with extreme caution, carefully reading the instructions. Incorrect dosage will only worsen the soil's condition.
Soil acidity is also monitored. If it's too high, it must be reduced by liming. Lime, dolomite flour, eggshells, or wood ash are used for this. These powders are applied to the soil on a day without rain or wind, and the soil is then tilled.
| Ingredient used | Dosage per 1 sq.m. |
| Lime | 0.5-0.8 kg |
| Dolomite flour | 0.4-0.6 kg |
| Wood ash | 2-2.5 kg |
| Eggshell | 1-1.2 kg |
Liming can be done at any time of year except autumn. It is recommended to perform this procedure every five years for preventative purposes.
Greenhouse soil requires constant attention and care. Nutrient levels, the presence of living organisms, and the pH level all affect fertility. If fertilizers are applied promptly, crop rotation rules are followed, and the pH balance is maintained, the greenhouse will reward its owner with a bountiful and delicious harvest.