Surely on more than one occasion you have heard about the need for humus in plants and in the soil of your garden, but have you ever wondered what type of element humus is? That's why today we're going to tell you a little about this organic fertilizer, which is essential for the perfect health of our plants and the soil where they are planted. For more information on the subject, you can consult our guide on types of humus.
HumusHumus is the substance that results from the decomposition of organic remains. This decomposition occurs thanks to organisms and microorganisms such as fungi and bacteria. It's important to clarify that humus is often confused with compost. However, humus has a much higher degree of decomposition than compost, which means it cannot be easily identified as being of plant or animal origin. In fact, the degree of decomposition is so high that it cannot undergo further decomposition.
La organic material The material that decomposes to form humus can come from different sources, such as root secretions and other plant fragments, as well as from animals and their excrement. This process is vital, since humus acts as a fertility enhancer of the soil, improving its structure and retaining moisture.
Types of Humus
It is important to note that there are different types of humus which are classified according to the length of time they have been decomposing. In this sense, the types of humus can be:
- Young Humus: This type of humus forms in aerated soils and usually has a lighter texture. Within this category we find variants such as rubbish, moderate y mor.
- Old Humus: In contrast, old humus has a more compact texture and forms in soils that are not as aerated, such as peat and the anmoor.
As humus ages, it becomes more beneficial to the soil, as it improves their ability to retain nutrients and allows for better plant growth. Humus also helps regulate the soil temperature, providing a more stable environment for root development. If you'd like to learn more about how to improve the fertility of your crops, visit our section on tree fertilization.
Benefits of Humus in Gardening
Incorporating humus into the garden has multiple benefits:
- Improves Fertility: Humus is loaded with essential nutrients that are released slowly, ensuring a constant supply for plants.
- Water Retention: Thanks to its structure, humus can retain large amounts of water, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Soil Structure Improvement: Humus helps create a loose soil structure, which facilitates root growth and air circulation.
- Promoting Microbial Life: Humus serves as a habitat and food source for beneficial microorganisms, which in turn help decompose organic matter and release nutrients. To learn more about the humus creation process, you can read about the homemade hummus.
How to Produce Humus
Humus production can be achieved through proper composting. Here are some basic steps you can follow:
- Collection of Materials: Collect food scraps, dry leaves, grass clippings and other organic waste.
- Creation of the Pilaster: Form a pilaster of these materials in a suitable, airy location in your garden.
- Humidity Control: Make sure the pilaster is damp, but not soaked. This will help encourage microbial activity.
- Aeration: Turn the pilaster every few weeks to introduce oxygen and speed up the decomposition process.
- Wait: After a few months, you should end up with a dark, earthy product that is humus.
This process will not only provide you with humus, but also will reduce the amount of waste that you send to the landfill.
Types of Hummus to Surprise Your Guests
In addition to hummus itself, the term "hummus" also refers to a delicious chickpea-based dip, very popular in Middle Eastern cuisine. There are numerous variations you can make to impress your friends and family:
- Traditional Hummus: Made with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice and olive oil.
- Hummus with Remolacha: Add cooked beets to the classic mix for a sweet flavor and vibrant color.
- Avocado Hummus: Combine the creaminess of avocado with traditional hummus for an even smoother dip.
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Add roasted peppers for a smoky, sweet flavor.
- Chocolate Hummus: Add chocolate paste and honey for a sweet dip perfect for desserts.
- Bean or Lentil Hummus: Try different legumes to vary the recipe and explore new flavors.
Don't forget to pair your hummus with crunchy vegetables, pita bread, or crackers for a complete experience.
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