Surfactants, or wetting agents, are a valuable tool in the garden. Some of the best wetting agents are derived from yucca, which has a high saponin content. This natural compound of the Yucca Schidigera plant helps the plant to overcome water stress and when extracted, can be used to improve the soil's absorption and dispersal of both water and nutrients by reducing the natural surface tension. This allows plant roots to absorb more of what is available to them as the water and nutrients are distributed more evenly.
Yucca extracts reduce unwanted salt buildup by reducing dry pocket formation within the soil and washing concentrated salts past the root zone (they have also been known to help keep drip emitters clean). In the case of excessive mineral buildup, yucca extracts will reduce the amount of water necessary to flush the soil. Saponins and complex carbohydrates present in yucca extracts provide slow-release food sources for many soil-dwelling microorganisms. As a result, many compost tea recipes use yucca extracts. Yucca extracts commonly contain micronutrients such as iron, zinc, manganese and copper as well.
Anyone who has mixed their own soil, has seen how much effort it takes to get the peat to take up the moisture- it seems to resist water absorption. However mix a bit of yucca extract into the water that you are using to hydrate the sphagnum and you will quickly see a change in the rate of water uptake.
Application Rate:
Wetting Agent:
- Per acre use 2-3 oz per acre mixed with enough water to cover area.
- Less than one acre use ¼ tsp per gallon water.
Soil Treatment:
- Use once per year on pH neutral to acidic soil; twice per year for alkaline soil.
- Use 16 oz. per acre. Mix with enough water to cover the entire area.
- Less than one acre use 1-2 tsp per gallon of water
This product is approved for organic use.
