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Soilless soil solves planting problems PAGE 7 - PLAINDE ALER - WEDNESDAY. JUNE 25,1980 Choosing the right soil for house plants and outdoor gar­ dens is essential for healthy plant growth. Many common planting problems can be over­ come by using the proper soil mix. A topsoil suitable for plants is mostly a mixture of clay or sand particles, organic material, air and moisture. In an outdoor garden, plants can spread out their roots, reach­ ing moisture and nutrients. However, a potted plant must survive on the limited raw mate­ rials supplied in its container. Any water that is not ab­ sorbed by soil will drain out of the bottom of the pot. As more water isSdded, its weight packs down-the soil, decreasing the air spaces between the soil particles. Without proper drainage, water stays in the air spaces, re­ ducing the oxygen available for the roots to breathe. Poor aera­ tion also increases the concen­ tration of carbon dioxide re­ leased into the sqil during the growth process. STRONG ROOT SYSTEMS ARE essential for vigorously heal* thy plants. Soilless growing media, premixed combinations bf sphagnum peat moss, vermiculite and other ingredients, typi­ cally encourage this kind of root growth in commercial greenhouses and home gardens. In an effort to solve these common topsoil problems, re­ searchers at Cornell University developed a soilless soil mix several years ago. A combina­ tion of sphagnum peat moss and vermiculite, it contains no topsoil. A number of differed soilless soil blends have been de­ veloped, providing an ideal growing media for all types of indoor and outdoor plants. Terra-Lite® soilless soil is a popular mix which includes Canadian sphagnum peat moss because of its long fibers which are ideal for absorbing and stor­ ing water. The fibers are light, spongy and larger than most soil parti­ cles, so they do not pack down easily. Another key ingredient is vermiculite. It is a mica-type mineral, expanded by heat to form lightweight, highly absor- bant particles. These particles contain many air spaces that absorb and store water, releasing moisture as the plant needs it. Vermiculite is approximately 20 percent mag­ nesium and six percent potas­ sium, both essential for plants. Root development is a vital factor in healthy house plant growth. Terra-Lite soilless soil allows maximum root develop­ ment and provides a balanced diet of air, water and many es­ sential nutrients. Both house plants and gardens will thrive in soilless soil. For more information about soilless soil and how it can help solve common planting prob­ lems, write to: Plant Care, Hor­ ticultural Products Department, W.R. Grace & Co., 62 Whitte- more Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02140. / MINGS C0UP0N~"$~$ GOOD for *>0FF CLmNYGm Leath i ers & coupon Furs) ifgsshU 1207 N. THIRD ST. ONE HOUR CLEANERS MCHENRY. ILLINOIS WEST OF A & P FOOD STORE 385-2011 m £ WED JLJNE25 M0N. JUNE30 0 PANTS-TOPS BL9USES* DRESSES Tfe-SKI RT5-SHORTS SWIM WEAK D Q UP TO