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Sawdust is a commonly used substrate in soilless cultivation, especially in areas where it is easily available and cost-effective. Its unique properties make it suitable for various growing applications. One of its main advantages is its lightweight nature, which closely resembles the bulk density of perlite and vermiculite. This makes it ideal for long-distance transportation or high-rise flower cultivation, as it reduces structural load while maintaining good aeration.
In terms of water retention, sawdust has excellent absorption and drainage capabilities. It provides an optimal balance of moisture and air for plants with thick roots. In humid regions like southern cities or coastal areas such as Jidandong, the moisture content of sawdust is naturally well-suited. However, in drier northern areas, the high permeability of sawdust can lead to rapid drying of the root zone, potentially causing plant stress or death. To address this, it's advisable to mix sawdust with peat to improve moisture retention.
From a nutritional standpoint, sawdust contains a high carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio—approximately 58.4% carbon, 0.26% nitrogen, 0.08% hydrogen, and 2.6% ash. This makes it a challenging organic material to decompose naturally, often requiring one to two years for complete breakdown. The use of a microbial starter, such as Gumbol, can significantly speed up the fermentation process. However, careful attention must be paid to the C/N ratio, as it is a critical factor in achieving successful decomposition.
To optimize the fermentation process, it's important to add a nitrogen source—such as urea or poultry manure—to balance the carbon-rich sawdust. A proper mix of ingredients ensures faster and more efficient composting. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. **Preparation**: Start with 2 cubic meters of sawdust, 1 bag of microbial fermentation agent, 2 kg of urea (or 50–100 kg of poultry manure), and 5 kg of rice bran.
2. **Moisture Adjustment**: Check the moisture level of the sawdust before adding water. Aim for a moisture content of 60–65%. A simple test is to squeeze a handful—if no water drips out but it feels damp, it's ready.
3. **Mixing**: To ensure even distribution of the microbial agent, mix the fermentation starter with 5 kg of rice bran. This helps spread the microbes evenly throughout the sawdust pile.
4. **Fermentation**: Combine the mixture with the sawdust, then sprinkle the prepared urea solution over the pile. Cover the pile with a breathable material to maintain temperature and humidity.
5. **Turning**: After 7–10 days, when the internal temperature reaches around 60°C, turn the pile once. Repeat this process after another 24–36 hours at high temperature. Allow the pile to rest for 5–7 days until the temperature stabilizes below 40°C. Under normal conditions, the fermentation process takes about 25–30 days, though it can be extended to 30–45 days if needed.
By following these steps, you can effectively transform raw sawdust into a nutrient-rich, well-aerated substrate that supports healthy plant growth.
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