CT Daylily visit

Torrington Final Diagnostic

September 22

Summer 2022

Master gardeners know that one of the best ways to increase their knowledge is to learn from other gardeners, and CMGA’s ’soil block and self-wicking watering system’ workshop proved that to be true. On Tuesday, March 15, MG Linette Branham taught a group of MGs how to use materials they can find at home, or purchase inexpensively, to make soil blocks for seed starting, and a watering system that relies on a wicking fabric to provide bottom-watering to seedlings. Soil blocks, the MGs learned, are a great alternative to using plastic pots for seed starting, in that, when the seedling is ready to be potted up or planted directly into the garden, the seedling remains in the block, preventing a disruption to the root system. When used correctly, a self-wicking watering system enables the gardener to ‘bottom water’ the seedlings, which encourages the seedling’s roots to reach down to get the water it needs, building a stronger root system. Working together, soil blocks and a self-wicking watering system can get your seed starting and seedling care off to a great start each year!