Seaweed to wrap sushi, to thicken ice cream, to wash your face . . . but the real magic is seaweed in your garden.
So says horticulturalist Dexter Friede, an expert on organic fertilizers at Grow More since 1992. He will discuss the benefits of seaweed and other organic stimulants and fertilizers when the Palisades Garden Club meets at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, November 3, at the Woman’s Club, 901 Haverford.
Although Grow More is a leading manufacturer of agricultural, horticultural and specialty chemicals, Friede says that, since the early ‘90s, organic products have become popular.
“Those sales have increased considerably in the home market, especially because the amino acids found in organics have a nitrogen value similar to chemicals, resulting in vigorous growth.
“Where you really notice the benefit from organic fertilizers is in flavor, as the plant takes advantage of the nutrients in the soil.” Friede notes that “a lot of gardeners use granular fertilizers to replenish exhausted soil by planting in the same spot season after season.”
Easy to apply, he says. But this treatment is counterproductive and often leads to a build-up of salt that contributes to rock-hard clay soils.
The secret of organics is that they build up beneficial bacteria that are grown in the roots of the plants, according to Friede. “If you can get that activation, you’ll have better growth.”
That’s where seaweed comes in. Seaweed extract has natural amino acids and trace nutrients, including the full vitamin B complex.
“Seaweed helps prevent plants from going into stress,” Fried says helps propagate new plants, and if used as a spray, stimulates leaf growth.” A miracle indeed.
Friede will bring samples to the meeting, undoubtedly with a little seaweed extract in the mix.
This page is available to subscribers. Click here to sign in or get access.
