Flower soil compaction is one of the common problems of gardening enthusiasts, this article will identify the causes of flower soil compaction, methods of loose soil and preventive measures, etc., for you to introduce how to deal with flower soil compaction, so that your plants can grow healthier.
I. Introduction. Flower soil compaction refers to the phenomenon that the soil surface becomes hard and agglomerates, resulting in a decrease in soil permeability and drainage. Flower soil compaction not only affects the normal growth of plant roots, but also may lead to problems such as slow growth and yellow leaves. So, how to deal with soil compaction?This article will answer them one by one.
2. Identify the causes of soil compaction.
Improper watering: Overwatering or underwatering can cause soil to harden. Overwatering can squeeze the air out of the soil, resulting in compacted soil;Insufficient watering can cause water in the soil to evaporate too quickly and salt accumulates, leading to soil hardening.
Improper use of fertilizers: Excessive use of fertilizers can lead to excessive salinity in the soil, making the soil compact;Insufficient application of organic fertilizer will cause the soil to lack organic matter and affect the soil structure.
Soil texture: Clay-textured soils tend to compact, while sandy soils are relatively better.
3. Methods of loosening soil.
Increase organic matter: Adding well-decomposed organic fertilizers to the soil, such as humus, animal manure, etc., can improve the fertility and water retention capacity of the soil, improve the soil structure, and make the soil loose.
Use biological fertilizer: The beneficial microorganisms in biological fertilizer can decompose organic matter in the soil, increase soil porosity, and improve soil air permeability.
Timely tillage: Regular tillage of the soil can break the agglomeration of the soil surface and improve the porosity of the soil. However, it is necessary to pay attention to the depth of tillage to avoid damaging the plant roots.
Sandy soil improvement: For clay soil, particulate matter such as sand or vermiculite can be added in an appropriate amount to improve soil texture and improve soil permeability and drainage.
Proper watering and fertilization: Master the appropriate amount and frequency of watering to avoid soil compaction caused by excessive or insufficient watering. At the same time, the rational application of chemical fertilizers and organic fertilizers can maintain the balance of soil nutrients and reduce the accumulation of soil salinity.
4. Preventive measures.
Choose the right soil type: Before planting, understand the growth needs of the plant and choose the right soil type for it, which can avoid the problem of soil compaction at the source.
Replace the potting soil regularly: For potted plants, change the potting soil every 1-2 years to ensure a good environment for plant growth.
Pay attention to drainage: Make sure that the pot or garden has good drainage performance to avoid soil compaction caused by long-term water accumulation.
Mulching protection: Covering the soil surface with a layer of organic matter (such as wood chips, straw, etc.) can reduce water evaporation, maintain soil moisture, and prevent rainwater from directly washing the soil surface, reducing the risk of soil compaction.
5. Summary. 
Soil compaction is a common problem in the gardening process, but it can be easily solved as long as we understand its causes and take corresponding countermeasures. By increasing organic matter, using biological fertilizers, plowing the soil at the right time, and paying attention to proper watering, fertilization and preventive measures, we can create a healthier environment for plants.