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GROWER
Q
How do enzyme cleaners
affect the beneficial
microorganisms in the
soil? Especially those
in the root zone?
Peter
a
Thank you for your question, Peter.
Enzyme-based cleaners, conditioners, and additives are a great,
all-natural way to help maintain a healthy soil or hydroponic
system. Enzymes are specialized catalysts that bring about a
specific biochemical reaction. Unlike other catalysts, enzymes will
only increase the rate of a particular chemical reaction. In other
words, aside from the reaction they specifically perform, they will
not have any other effect in the soil or medium. This is not to say
they cannot affect microorganisms, but the enzymes typically used
in horticulture are the ones whose specific reactions are beneficial
to horticulturists. In fact, most enzymes used in horticulture are
actually produced by the beneficial microorganisms commonly
found in soil. For example, enzymes produced by trichoderma, such
as chitinase and cellulases, are used in some horticultural enzyme
solutions. Chitinase enzymes break down chitin, which is what
pathogenic fungi’s cell walls are primarily comprised of. Cellulase
enzymes can aid in breaking down organic material in the soil and
turn it into readily available nutrients for the plant.
Because they are so specific in the reactions they influence, enzyme
additives or cleaners should not have any negative effect on the
beneficial microorganisms found in the soil or around the root zone.
More than likely, the enzymes found in horticultural enzyme products
are actually by products of those same beneficial microorganisms.
That being said, whenever a gardener uses a horticultural enzyme
product, he or she should do so in accordance with the recommen-
dations of the manufacturer. If used in too high of a concentration or
applied too often, horticultural enzyme products could alter the pH of
the soil or hydroponic solution, which, if not corrected, could cause
undesirable results. I hope this answers your question.
Keep on Growing,
Eric Hopper
EH
18
Maximum Yield
Eric Hopper has more than 10 years of experience in the hydroponic industry as both a retail store manager
and owner. He continuously seeks new methods and products that could help maximize garden performance.
Eric resides in Michigan where he and his family strive for a self-sufficient and sustainable lifestyle.