Too Much of a Good Thing

Tangible examples of an indulgence depend on the individual. For some, it is an exclusive brand-name product which elevates one’s social status and is usually quite expense. Coach handbags and Dom Perignon champagne would both fit into the category of pricy luxuries that most residents of panhandle Florida partake in only for special occasions.

For others, the extravagances are limited to tasty, and almost always high calorie, culinary treats. Nearly anything chocolate, a thick porterhouse steak and artichoke hearts all easily fit into the category of delicacies consumed on rare occasions.

So much for those New Year’s resolutions of a few months ago.

However, if these premium products were utilized frequently and in great quantities, they would quickly become too much of a good thing and result in problems. Even the relatively mundane, in excess, can produce unintended consequences.

An example applicable to area residents is the storm which produces heavy rains in a short period of time. Nature’s irrigation system is a true luxury when it delivers water in moderate amounts on a regular basis.

Submerged turfgrasses commonly die after a few days. When the water has retreated, the homeowner should take a soil sample to determine any needed nutrients before attempting to restore the lawn.

Precipitation amounts which leave standing water in landscapes for days is a problem for both the plants and the homeowner. Still, there are actions which should be undertaken to mitigate the negative result.

Grasses, ornamental shrubs and some trees will die when their root zones are submerged for multiple days. The larger roots which support the plant’s structure usually remain, but the fine roots quickly succumb to oxygen deprivation.

It is the tiny, hair-like roots which are able to utilize the moisture (in moderation) and absorb the available nutrients. After excessive submersion the plants appear wilted and limp, similar to those which have died during a drought.

Standing water also changes the nutrient composition of soil. Trying to replant the same species which was killed by the “drowning” event could result in it dying for a new reason.

To help alleviate the situation, take a soil sample from the affected area and submit it for testing as soon as is practical. The materials for submitting a sample are available at every UF/IFAS Extension Office, or use any reputable soils lab.

Do-it-yourself soil testing is fraught with potential problems. Even the slightest error can result in inaccurate information and the wrong fertilizer being used.

If excess nutrients are applied, they commonly end up in local water bodies with negative results. If too little is spread, the replacement plants will not perform to their potential.

The report from the Extension Service and other commercial soil test labs will detail the nutrients needed to be successful in restoring the damaged area. The report also gives the user the soil pH of the sample.

This somewhat abstract number reflects the relative acidity or alkalinity of the sampled plot and is critical to plant performance. Most popular landscape ornamentals, turfgrasses and garden vegetables grow best in mildly acidic soils.

Prolonged standing water tends to acidify soils. This is a problem for many inland areas as acidic soils are typical.

Coastal sites tend to be alkaline, but pockets of acidic soils are present. This is especially true for home sites which have had soil imported as fill.

It is always best to check and be certain.

Excesses usually cause difficulties. Depending on the type of excess, the result can be debt, excessive weight, and/or dead plants. Correct follow-up actions can solve the problem.