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How To Use Soil Blocking To Start Sustainable Seedlings
By CHRISTY RAE AMMONS
Soil blocking enables the roots of seedlings to naturally prune themselves once reaching the block’s border, which results in a strong and thriving root system.
The exposure to oxygen makes it easier for plants to take in nutrients, and you can plant the entire block in your garden, reducing the seedlings’ risk of shock during transplant.
To start soil blocking, select a blocker tool. Soil blockers come in a range of types and sizes, so you’ll want to choose whichever type suits your garden best.
Stand-up blockers are great for large scale projects since they can make a dozen or more blocks at once. Handheld blockers are cheaper, but can only make four blocks at a time.
Blocking tools can create 3/4-inch to 4-inch-sized cubes. A 2-inch block is suitable for vegetable and flower seeds, while smaller blocks are more for faster sprouting plants.
For your blocks to hold their shape correctly, use soil that has a fluffier texture, like mixes that have coco coir or peat moss, or you can select a recipe and make your own.
For easy storage, place your blocks in a tray with drainage holes, and set them in a sturdy, reusable one without holes for watering to maintain a sustainable gardening practice.