Many summer residents believe that the potato harvest depends only on watering and hilling. However, it all begins even before the tuber hits the ground.
The most crucial moment comes when preparing the hole, since it is the starting feed that sets the pace. An experienced gardener, author of the blog “Your Dacha” (18+), recommends adding dolomite flour to the planting hole.
The benefits of dolomite flour for potatoes
This additive reduces the acidity of the soil and also enriches it with calcium and magnesium. In addition, dolomite helps fight pest larvae – primarily wireworms, as well as the Colorado potato beetle and mole cricket. For better results, it can be mixed with humus or compost to enhance the nutritional effect.
How to add dolomite to holes
About 50 g of flour should be added to each planting hole. This small amount significantly improves the quality of the soil and creates a protective barrier against larvae. Then lightly sprinkle the dolomite with soil, plant the tuber with the sprouts facing up, completely cover it with soil and carefully level the bed.
Important Tips
In addition to dolomite flour, it is useful to add a handful of wood ash to each hole. It is also recommended to warm the tubers in a bright place at a temperature of +15 degrees 2 weeks before planting.
Related materials:
Potatoes are larger than your fist and not a single one is rotten: what to pour into the hole when planting for a record harvest – the secret of summer residents
“Are you putting manure in the holes? It’s in vain!”: this is what will really protect tomatoes from rot – don’t repeat the mistakes of 90% of summer residents
