Garden & Greenhouse August 2018 Issue | Page 14

Compost From Plant Material Compost is a general term referring to composted (aged and broken down) organic matter. Compost can be derived from a number of different sources, but is usually derived from plant material and/or manure. Although compost is not specifi cally a plant extract, it can still contain many benefi cial proper- ties of the plant material that is composted. Not only does compost have signifi cant nutrient value, it also provides an abundance of microbial life to the soil mixture. The benefi cial microorganisms derived from compost are the foundation for nutrient uptake. Soybean Meal Soybean meal is a plant-based byproduct of the soybean industry. This slow-releasing nitrogen source is a great fertilizer for plants that require adequate ni- trogen for two to three months. Camellia Meal Camellia meal is a byproduct of the camellia seed oil industry. Camellia meal, also known as wild fl ax, is high in nitrogen and has good moisture holding capacity. Neem Seed Meal Similar to camellia meal, neem seed meal is also a byproduct of the seed oil industry. Neem seed meal has a good amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, potas- sium, and is an excellent source of macro- and micro- nutrients as well. THE ORIGINAL TWO-PART, PH BALANCED HYDROPONIC BASE NUTRIENT. • • • • Ensures maximum growth and flowering Highly concentrated pH balanced for increased yields Over 20 years of outstanding results High Performance Products. High Performance Service. To see the full line of products and find a dealer near you please visit: www.tradewindsgarden.com 14 Cottonseed Meal Cottonseed meal is a byproduct of the cotton industry. Cottonseed meal is a vegan slow-release fertilizer that is acidic in nature. Cottonseed meal is a common ingredient in fertilizers specifi cally devel- oped for acid-loving plants. Cottonseed meal contains nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and other micronu- trients. Amino Acids (Derived from Plants) Many indoor horticulturists are discovering the benefi ts of using amino acid supplements. Amino acids are the building blocks of the proteins and en- zymes that infl uence plant vitality (more specifi cally plant metabolism) and contribute to a plant’s struc- tural integrity. The largest benefi ts of supplementing an amino acid formula are increased nutrient uptake and overall stress reduction. Amino acid supplements come in many forms and are often combined with other benefi cial ingredients. The plant protein hydro- lysate is a good example of a plant extract product that is rich in amino acids. There are also amino acid powders derived from plant sources, such as soy- beans. These amino acid fertilizers usually contain a good amount of soluble nitrogen and aid in chelating various micronutrients, including manganese, iron, www.GardenandGreenhouse.net August 2018