Chaetomorpha vs kelp

Sir Patrick

Sir Patrick

Well-Known Member
Ive read that kelp is a common soil amendment....but the seaweed I have readily available, consistently is Chaetomorpha- and have been wondering if this seaweed can be used also.

Tried to add a link to info on this seaweed, but cant, as I am still very new here.

My other garden is a coral reef, as I propagate corals at home. This algea is used to outcompete nuicense algeas and seaweeds by absorbing nutrients, ammonia, nitrates and phosphates, very quickly in my aquariums and propagation systems. I thin it out often, throwing it away or giving it away to local reefers.

I am looking for info on using this in my indoor/outdoor gardens similar to the way many are using the kelp.

Side subject- I am also constantly trimming my willow tree....is there any added benefits of the chipped willow tree branches being composted into my soils (outdoors) vs composting other trees? Will the rooting qualities of the willow add to my soil through composting?

Appreciate all help and info.
 
DonBrennon

DonBrennon

Well-Known Member
Sir Patrick said:
Ive read that kelp is a common soil amendment....but the seaweed I have readily available, consistently is Chaetomorpha- and have been wondering if this seaweed can be used also.

Tried to add a link to info on this seaweed, but cant, as I am still very new here.

My other garden is a coral reef, as I propagate corals at home. This algea is used to outcompete nuicense algeas and seaweeds by absorbing nutrients, ammonia, nitrates and phosphates, very quickly in my aquariums and propagation systems. I thin it out often, throwing it away or giving it away to local reefers.

I am looking for info on using this in my indoor/outdoor gardens similar to the way many are using the kelp.

Side subject- I am also constantly trimming my willow tree....is there any added benefits of the chipped willow tree branches being composted into my soils (outdoors) vs composting other trees? Will the rooting qualities of the willow add to my soil through composting?

Appreciate all help and info.
Click to expand...
Sorry to say the 'really' experienced folk in these areas left long ago........but from my brief knowledge, I'd say, dry your algae, grind it up and use it in maybe 1-2 pots 'max' in your next grow to see it's effects. It may be the next big thing in amendments, it may also be toxic to your plant or send your nutrient balance out of whack.

Actually, if you can keep coral alive in a tank, growing MJ should be a walk in the park for you. I'm guessing again, but I'd imaging the rooting hormone from the willow tree will be destroyed by composting, it's an extreme process, but again it's just a guess, these 'systems' are very complex.
 
W

Wetdog

Well-Known Member
I think for the information you're looking for would be to find a copy of "Seaweed and plant growth" by T. L. Senn Ph. D. Head professor Emeritus, Dept of Horticulture, Clemson University.

He studied Kelp (Ascophyllum Nodosum), for over 30 years at Clemson and the book is a very comprehensive study.

I found my copy at Amazon for $8.72, used. Very lightly.

HTH

Wet
 
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