margsc All Lessons, Beginner Lessons, Soil Chemistry, Uncategorized

Essential Plant Nutrients: What Plants Need and Why

Summary: Essential plant nutrients are necessary for healthy plant growth. The 17 essential plant nutrients are C, O, H, N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, B, Ni, Cu, Mo, Z, Cl, and Mn. Essential plant nutrients may be categorized as structural (C, O, H), primary macronutrients (N, P, K), secondary macronutrients (Ca, Mg, S) … Continue reading Essential Plant Nutrients: What Plants Need and Why

margsc Advanced Lessons, All Lessons, Soil Chemistry

The Myth of the BCSR and the “Ideal Soil”

Summary: The BCSR, or Basic Cation Saturation Ratio, is the idea that a particular (“balanced”) ratio of three basic cations (Ca, Mg, and K) is best for soil health and plant growth. The ratio defined by the BCSR was developed from ca. 1892-1979 based on historic studies with flawed conclusions and methodologies. The scientists who … Continue reading The Myth of the BCSR and the “Ideal Soil”