Can Sawdust Be Used to Grow Flowers?
In urban horticulture practice, the reuse value of sawdust as a common waste is being rediscovered. This wood fiber material can effectively improve soil structure, and its unique physical properties become an important aid for the growth of many plants. Reasonable use of sawdust can not only reduce maintenance costs but also create a unique cultivation environment.
The Application Value of Sawdust in Horticulture
Soil Structure Improvement Expert
Professional treated sawdust has excellent air permeability and water retention properties, and its porous structure can significantly improve soil compaction. Experimental data show that a substrate with 30% decomposed sawdust increases water retention by 45% and speeds up root development by 20%. It is especially suitable for acid-loving plants such as orchids and azaleas.
Scientific Fermentation Process
Material Proportions and Operating Standards
The standard fermentation formula recommends a ratio of sawdust to animal manure of 3:1, and adding EM bacteria agents can shorten the fermentation period to 25 days. Key control points include maintaining humidity at 60%, keeping the temperature between 55-65°C for 10 days, and determining the degree of decomposition by the color change to dark brown.
Three Elements of Safe Treatment
1. The selection of raw materials should avoid composite board sawdust containing formaldehyde, preferring natural woods like pine and cedar. 2. The fermentation process requires regular turning to ensure oxygen supply. 3. After the fermentation is complete, a pH test (5.5-6.5 is ideal) is required.
Plant Adaptation and Usage Taboos
Applicable Plant Types
Succulent plants should be kept within 15%, while foliage plants can be increased to 40%. For orchid cultivation, it can be mixed with bark, and flowering plants like roses need to be combined with bone meal to supplement phosphorus.
Risk Prevention Points
Unfermented sawdust can cause root burn, which is manifested by the drying of leaf edges. Waste sawdust from renovations needs to be exposed to sunlight three times, and the water washing method can remove more than 80% of chemical residues. It is recommended to mix in 5% biochar in the initial stage to absorb harmful substances.
Through scientific proportioning and standardized operations, sawdust can be transformed into high-quality organic cultivation substrates. Different plant varieties have varying adaptability to sawdust, and it is recommended to start with a 10% addition and adjust gradually. Regularly observing the growth of plants and combining foliar top dressing can maximize the ecological value of sawdust.