Teaming With Microbes

Springtails and the soil food web

Episode Summary

Jeff and Jonathan discuss how a tiny insect helps nurture the soil food web

Episode Notes

Last week the guys talked about applying organics to the garden to nurture the soil food web.  This week, they talk about another contributor to healthy soil: Springtails!

Springtails are very small insects that break down organics by ingesting bacteria and fungi.  They can also jump about 2 feet.  This means when they jump around, they carry bacteria and fungal spores with them - which helps spread around the good stuff to the soil and gardens. 

After the break, the team dives into more discussions about things you can do to prepare your gardens for the fall / winter transition.  This includes collecting brown and green piles for your compost, putting down organics, and staking and labeling your perennials.

Finally, they answer a listener’s question about planting micro-clover in the fall.

All this and more on this episode of Teaming with Microbes!

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Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!

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The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  

Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!