Organic mulching and fertilizing go hand in hand
Gooseberries thrive in nutrient-rich soil. At the same time, during the vegetation period, supplies of nutrients are required from time to time because the shallow-roots have quickly used up the available supplies. Since the environmentally and health-conscious hobby gardener can no longer get mineral-chemical preparations through the garden door, organic fertilizers dominate. How to do it right:
- with a portion of compost in early spring Horn shavings(€ 32.93 at Amazon *) rake superficially into the ground
- alternatively fertilize with rotted manure, algae or primary rock dust
- after that mulch with comfrey leaves, fern or nettles
- Fertilize organically one more time after flowering
- Administer diluted nettle manure every 2 weeks during the entire growth phase
- Fertilize one last time immediately after harvest
also read
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- Fertilize currants properly - guarantee of a rich harvest
- Cleaning the gooseberries - this is how you do it right
The mulch layer fulfills several tasks on the gooseberries. It keeps the soil moist longer, releases nutrients and suppresses weeds. This has the advantage that you rarely have to rake. The shallow roots are less prone to damage.
Useful alternatives to compost
A garden does not always have enough space for a compost heap. This does not mean that you now have to do without organic fertilization of your gooseberries. There is a space-saving alternative called vermicompost. In a close relationship Compost worms and other microorganisms, kitchen waste is composted using a clever system. The special worm box is constructed like this:
- the floor below serves as a habitat for the compost worms
- the next floor supplies the mature vermicompost
- The basin for worm tea, an organic liquid fertilizer, is located on the lower floor
Such a one Worm farm can be built by anyone with a little manual skill. With proper management, there is always a sufficient amount of organic fertilizer available for the gooseberries and other crops.
Tips & Tricks
Tired of scratched hands after the gooseberry harvest? Then build that variety 'Larell' because the thorns are missing here. The deep red fruits are sweet as sugar and particularly burst-resistant. Due to the medium-strong growth, it also thrives excellently in the tub on the balcony.
GTH
