A solid foundation is the key to strong marriages, well built houses, and well adjusted children. As T. F. Hodge stated, “You cannot build a dream on a foundation of sand. To weather the test of storms, it must be cemented in the heart with uncompromising conviction.”
A solid foundation is also the key to healthy plants. Often what is below the ground affects your flowers, shrubs, and trees as much or more than what is above ground. It is a common misconception that what is now known as Sun City was fertile farmland prior to being developed. While a portion of this community was farmland, other portions had different uses. There was a gravel pit, low lying areas, and several farms. There was even an old school house near Clanyard Road. One of the scariest moments of my childhood occurred when I was convinced I was being enveloped by quicksand while exploring with my stepbrother on a piece of property very close to Sun City.
Just as the uses of the land varied prior to development, there are varying types of soil in the community. During the last 12 years, I have seen a wide variety of soil types. There are areas where the soil consists primarily of sand. Conversely, there are areas where the soil is grey, indicating water saturation and poor aeration. Clay is the predominate mineral matter in soils in Sun City.
If you are concerned about your soil type, you may want to have a soil test completed. You can pick up a soil test kit at the University of Illinois Cooperative Extension Service in Woodstock. Simply follow the instructions, mail in your soil sample, and they will send you an analysis of your soil. It will also include recommendations of what you should add to your soil.
An ideal soil for plant growth consists of 25 percent air, 25 percent water, 45 percent mineral matter, and 5 percent organic matter. It seems a bit strange, but roots need oxygen. There are not a lot of rules of gardening, but there is one that you need to abide by. Do not work in your soil when it is wet! Working in wet soil could lead to a decrease in the amount of oxygen in the soil and could ruin the soil structure. It is also harmful to plants when the ground is fully saturated. A completely saturated soil can be low in oxygen. Even though organic matter only compromises 5 percent of an ideal soil, it is a crucial part of the soil. Organic matter is rich in nutrients. Clay soil can be improved through the addition of organic matter. Mushroom compost and peat moss are two great sources of organic matter. Both mushroom compost and peat moss should be incorporated into the soil when planting new trees and shrubs. You can also top dress existing planting beds with mushroom compost or top soil. A benefit of high quality shredded hardwood mulch is that over time it adds organic matter to your soil.
Soil type and the quantity of organic matter also affect the permeability of your soil. Although there are some plants that will adapt to a poorly drained soil, most plants prefer a well drained soil. Amending clay soil over time will improve the drainage and therefore improve the health of your plants.
Soil pH measures the degree of soil acidity or alkalinity. The pH of a soil affects the nutrient availability in soil. Most soils are between a 6.0 and 7.0, which is slightly alkaline. Fertilizers can affect soil pH. Lime raises the pH or makes a soil more alkaline; sulfur added to the soil makes a soil more acidic. Some plants, like hydrangea or evergreens, prefer a more acidic soil. Milorganite is a great slow-release, non-burning organic fertilizer.
Whew! I feel like we all went back to high school science class while reading that information. How about something on a lighter note?
The Sunflower Garden Club of Sun City consists of a wonderful group of residents who share the love of gardening and work tirelessly to raise funds for area non-profit organizations. Their fundraising efforts have allowed them to donate $1500 to the Grafton Township Food Pantry and $500 to the Animal House Shelter, both right here in Huntley.
They have also donated $500 to Faith in Action in Crystal Lake and $500 to the Pioneer Center. Please be sure to patronize their hanging basket sale that is tentatively set for Saturday, May 19, at the Pavilion from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Further information on the sale will be available in the Lifestyles Magazine and on posters throughout the community.
