How About a +/- Stat for Veggies?

[GFTL]

I like the concept of knowing what additional nutrients a plant might need. Would be great information on a seed packet to enable the gardener to get the most out of their plants.

 

[Tundra20]

I'm a scientist by training, profession, and intellect. I can't help but think that way.

I wonder why things happen the way they do and what variable causes which reaction in what amounts.

It's a curse yes, and money has zero relevance when it comes to knowledge to me. It's all about knowledge.

the more you know the less you need

 

[Ruderunner]

I wouldn't get too hung up on the difference between before and after and all the variables that would go into it. Some goes to the plant, some is lost or added by watering etc etc.

But, knowing the total is a good guideline of how much of what to add or not add. If one wants to go deeper, a "blood test" of the plants can be done, testing the plant and it's fruits to track what the plant is actually consuming.

I agree that hydroponics are probably the best way to do this mainly because one can control the water source. I suspect that the high phosphorus readings Meadowlark has may be from his water source itself. I know my water supply is slightly acidic and has a high iron content.

 

[Oliver Buckle]

If one wants to go deeper, a "blood test" of the plants can be done, testing the plant and it's fruits to track what the plant is actually consuming.

How about isotopic fertilizer so you can track how much the plant took up?
Or maybe make sure it has enough of everything and then leave it to the plant.

 

[oneeye]

I like the concept of knowing what additional nutrients a plant might need. Would be great information on a seed packet to enable the gardener to get the most out of their plants.

You can get all the information you need from the computer and specific nutrient guidelines. I think what's most important is the porosity of the soil and the organic matter content to feed microbes. If you build soils correctly you should be able to care for any plants needed with amended soil mixes. Healthy potting mixes grow healthy plants.

 

[Oliver Buckle]

You can get all the information you need from the computer and specific nutrient guidelines.

That is true of all the packet information. I find it varies hugely depending on the supplier, some times the planting distances and depths are even vague, "Plant at the correct depth and distance", no reason why the more careful suppliers shouldn't give a bit more info. You sometimes get it with things like seed potatoes which come with a leaflet.