Arvum Plant Labs

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Organic Sources of Sodium for Plant Health
Hey growers!
Welcome back to our series on sodium and its vital role in plant performance. So far, we’ve covered what sodium does for your plants and the effects of having too much or too little. Now, let’s talk about some natural, organic sources of sodium and how you can use them to keep your plants thriving.
Why Organic?
Choosing organic sources for your garden is not only environmentally friendly but also ensures that your plants are getting the purest nutrients. Organic sources are free from synthetic chemicals and often provide a host of other beneficial nutrients alongside sodium.
Top Organic Sources of Sodium
Seaweed Extract: Seaweed is a fantastic organic source of sodium. It’s packed with essential nutrients and minerals that boost plant health. Seaweed extract can be found in liquid or powder form and is easy to apply.
Fish Hydrolysates: Made from the byproducts of fish, fish hydrolysates (fish emulsion) is a nutrient-rich fertilizer that includes sodium. It’s a great all-rounder, providing a good balance of nutrients to support healthy growth.
Compost: Good-quality compost can be a rich source of sodium, especially if it includes sodium-rich materials like seaweed, kitchen scraps, and plant residues. Homemade compost with a mix of organic matter can provide a balanced nutrient profile.
Wood Ash: While not the most sodium-rich, wood ash can provide some sodium along with potassium and calcium. Use it sparingly, as it can also raise the pH of your soil.
Animal Manure: Well-composted animal manure, particularly from animals bedded with straw, can provide a source of sodium. Ensure that the manure is well-aged to avoid burning your plants.
How to Apply Organic Sodium Sources
Now that you know where to find organic sodium, let’s talk about how to use these sources effectively in your garden.
Seaweed Extract:
Foliar Spray: Dilute the seaweed extract according to the instructions and spray it directly onto the leaves. This method allows for quick absorption.
Soil Drench: Mix the extract with water and apply it to the soil around the base of the plants. This provides a slower release of nutrients directly to the roots.
Fish Hydrolysates:
Soil Application: Dilute the fish emulsion with water (usually 1:50) and pour it around the base of the plants. This not only provides sodium but also a range of other essential nutrients.
Foliar Feeding: Fish emulsion can also be used as a foliar spray. Dilute it more heavily to avoid leaf burn and apply in the early morning or late afternoon.
Compost:
Top Dressing: Apply a layer of compost around the base of the plants. This method enriches the soil gradually and helps retain moisture.
Compost Tea: Make a nutrient-rich tea by soaking compost in water for a few days. Use the liquid to water your plants, providing a quick nutrient boost.
Wood Ash:
Soil Amendment: Sprinkle a small amount of wood ash around the base of the plants and mix it into the soil. Be cautious with the quantity to avoid raising the soil pH too much.
Animal Manure:
Soil Incorporation: Mix well-composted manure into the soil before planting. This method ensures a steady release of sodium and other nutrients as the plants grow.
Monitoring Sodium Levels
To ensure your plants are getting the right amount of sodium, regular monitoring is essential. This is where leaf tissue analysis from Arvum Plant Labs can be incredibly helpful. By sending in samples, you can get a detailed report on the sodium levels in your plants, allowing you to adjust your nutrient management strategy as needed.
Conclusion
Using organic sources of sodium is a great way to support the health and growth of your plants while being kind to the environment. Remember, balance is key. Too much or too little sodium can cause issues, but with the right organic sources and regular monitoring, you can keep your plants thriving.
Want to get your first round of testing at a discount?
Call us at 707-398-8346 or email sales@arvumplantlabs.com to receive your first round of testing at a reduced price and embark on a journey to peak plant health and performance.
Stay tuned for more tips and tricks on maintaining a healthy, productive garden. Happy growing!

Empowering Growers | Transforming Cultivation
July 16, 2024
Navigating Sodium Levels: Excess and Deficiency
Welcome back, green thumbs! In our last post, we gave you a fun introduction to sodium and its role in plant performance. Now, it’s time to dig a little deeper and explore what happens when your plants have too much or too little sodium. Spoiler alert: it’s not pretty. But don’t worry! Leaf tissue analysis from Arvum Plant Labs is here to save the day. Let’s jump in!
The Sodium Spectrum: Finding the Balance
Just like Goldilocks, your plants need their sodium levels to be just right. Too little, and they struggle to grow. Too much, and they could face toxicity. Let’s break down the effects of both extremes.
Sodium Deficiency: When There’s Not Enough
Sodium might not be the main star, but it’s still crucial. When your plants don’t get enough sodium, you might notice:
Stunted Growth: Sodium helps with water balance and nutrient uptake. Without enough, your plants might look small and sad.
Yellowing Leaves: A common sign of sodium deficiency is chlorosis, where leaves turn yellow because they can’t produce enough chlorophyll.
Wilting: Without enough sodium to regulate water inside the cells, plants can start to wilt, even if you’re watering them regularly.
Sodium Toxicity: When There’s Too Much
On the flip side, having too much sodium can be just as bad, if not worse. Here’s what to watch out for:
Leaf Burn: Excess sodium can cause leaf burn, where the tips and edges of the leaves turn brown and crispy.
Nutrient Lockout: High sodium levels can interfere with the uptake of other essential nutrients like potassium and calcium. This means even if those nutrients are present in the soil, your plants can’t use them.
Poor Root Health: Excess sodium can damage the root system, making it harder for your plants to absorb water and nutrients effectively.
Even knowing the signs of sodium imbalance, it can be hard to differentiate between other nutrient imbalances or stresses. Leaf tissue analysis can quickly help identify exactly what your plants need using a data-driven approach.
Taking Action on Sodium Imbalances
Once you have your leaf tissue analysis results, you can take steps to correct any imbalances:
For Deficiency: Consider adding organic sources of sodium, such as seaweed extract or compost, to your soil. Be careful to add gradually and monitor your plants’ response.
For Toxicity: Improve soil drainage and consider flushing the soil with clean water to reduce sodium levels. Adding gypsum can also help displace sodium in the soil.
Final Thoughts
Keeping an eye on sodium levels is crucial for the health of your crop. With the help of leaf tissue analysis from Arvum Plant Labs, you can ensure your plants have just the right amount of sodium to thrive. Remember, balanced sodium levels mean happier plants and bigger, better yields.
Want to get your first round of testing at a discount?
Call us at 707-398-8346 or email sales@arvumplantlabs.com to receive your first round of testing at a reduced price and embark on a journey to peak plant health and performance.
Empowering Growers | Transforming Cultivation
July 8, 2024
Sodium and Its Role in Plant Health
Hey there, budding botanists! Ready to dive into the world of plant nutrition? Today, we’re talking about a mineral that’s often overlooked but super important for your plants: sodium! And guess what? Arvum Plant Labs can help you figure out if your plants are getting the right amount of this essential nutrient. Let’s get started!
Sodium: An Under-Appreciated Element
So, what’s the deal with sodium? You’ve probably heard of it in relation to your diet (salt on those fries, anyone?), but plants need it too. Sodium plays a role in several key processes that keep your plants happy and healthy. Here’s a quick rundown of what sodium does:
Osmotic Balance: Sodium helps regulate the water balance inside plant cells. This is super important because it ensures that your plants stay hydrated and can absorb nutrients properly.
Enzyme Activation: Some enzymes need sodium to work efficiently. These enzymes are like little helpers that speed up chemical reactions inside the plant.
Photosynthesis Support: Sodium can assist in the photosynthesis process, helping plants convert sunlight into energy. More energy means more growth!
How Much Sodium is Just Right?
Like many things in life, balance is key. Too little sodium, and your plants might struggle with growth and nutrient uptake. Too much sodium, and you could be facing toxicity issues that can damage your plants. But how do you know if your plants have the right amount?
Leaf Tissue Analysis: Your Plant’s Report Card
This is where Arvum Plant Labs comes in. They offer leaf tissue analysis, which is like a health check-up for your plants. Here’s how it works:
Sample Collection: You’ll take a small sample of 5 leaves from your plants and send them to the lab.
Lab Testing: At the lab, scientists will analyze the leaf tissue to measure the levels of various nutrients, including sodium.
Results: You’ll get a detailed report showing exactly how much sodium is in your plants, along with each primary, secondary, and micronutrient within 2 business days. It’s like getting a report card for your crop!
Why Use Leaf Tissue Analysis?
Leaf tissue analysis is super useful because it gives you a clear picture of your plant’s nutrient status. Here are some benefits:
Precision: You get accurate data on sodium levels, so you know if you need to make any adjustments.
Early Detection: By spotting nutrient imbalances early, you can take action before any serious problems develop.
Better Yields: Healthy plants produce better yields. By ensuring your plants have the right amount of sodium, you’re setting them up for success.
Keeping It Simple
Think of sodium as one of the many ingredients in your plant’s recipe for success. It’s not the star of the show, but it plays a crucial supporting role. And with leaf tissue analysis from Arvum Plant Labs, you can make sure your plants are getting just the right amount of this important nutrient.
So, the next time you’re thinking about plant health, don’t forget about sodium. It might just be the secret ingredient your plants need to thrive!
Want to see the nutrient levels inside of your plants?
Call us at 707-398-8346 or email sales@arvumplantlabs.com to receive your first round of testing at a reduced price and embark on a journey to peak plant health and performance.
Stay tuned for our next post where we’ll dive deeper into the nitty-gritty of sodium levels in your plants and what you can do to balance them! Until then, happy growing!

Empowering Growers | Transforming Cultivation
July 3, 2024
Aluminum: What you should know about imbalances in Aluminum

Greetings, green thumbs, and cultivators!
In the intricate world of plant health, maintaining the right balance of elements – not just nutrients – is essential for optimal plant growth. In our last blog post, we discussed Aluminum’s role in soil health and nutrients. Today, let’s explore the effects of Aluminum imbalances in plants and how to manage toxicities.
Understanding Aluminum Levels in Plants
Aluminum is a naturally occurring element that, while not required for plant growth, can affect plant health significantly. The presence of Aluminum in plants can influence various physiological processes and overall plant development.
Excessive Aluminum Levels: The Hidden Dangers
Aluminum Uptake and Plant Health: High levels of Aluminum in the soil can lead to increased uptake by plants, which can be detrimental, especially in acidic conditions.
Symptoms of Aluminum Toxicity:
Root Growth Inhibition: Elevated Aluminum levels can damage root cell membranes, inhibiting root growth and nutrient uptake. This often results in stunted plant development and reduced yields.
Nutrient Uptake Interference: Excessive Aluminum can disrupt the absorption of essential nutrients such as Calcium, Magnesium, and Phosphorus, leading to deficiencies despite their presence in the soil.
Visual Signs in Plants: Symptoms of Aluminum toxicity can be subtle and often first appear in the roots. You might notice stunted, thick, and brittle roots. Above ground, signs include leaf yellowing, poor growth, and decreased yield. Leaf tissue analysis can tell you for sure what levels of Aluminum are in your plants.
Deficient Aluminum Levels: An Uncommon Issue
While Aluminum toxicity is a well-known concern, Aluminum deficiency in plants is rare. However, very low levels of Aluminum can still have some effects on plants. Some plants have adapted to low Aluminum conditions, often by developing mechanisms to optimize nutrient uptake and growth even in Aluminum-deficient environments.
Balancing Aluminum Levels: Practical Solutions
Regular Heavy Metal and Plant Tissue Testing: Frequent testing of plant tissues is crucial to monitor Aluminum levels and maintain a balanced environment.
Liming Acidic Soils: Adding lime (calcium carbonate) to acidic soils can raise the pH, reducing Aluminum solubility and toxicity. This is one of the most effective ways to manage Aluminum levels.
Gypsum Applications: Applying gypsum (calcium sulfate) provides calcium that can displace Aluminum on soil exchange sites, helping mitigate its harmful effects without altering soil pH.
Maintaining balanced Aluminum levels in plants requires consistent nutrient monitoring and appropriate interventions. These practices ensure your plants have a healthy growing environment and can reach their full potential.
Expert Support from Arvum Plant Labs
Arvum Plant Labs is dedicated to demystifying soil chemistry and plant nutrition. We empower cultivators with the knowledge and tools needed to manage challenges like Aluminum toxicity effectively. To support your journey towards optimal plant health, we’re excited to offer all new customers a round of testing at a reduced price. With leaf tissue analysis, we will reveal the precise nutrient levels and Aluminum levels in your plants and provide recommendations on what you can do to improve your quality and yields.
Take the First Step Toward Plant Health Excellence
Ready to view inside your plants like never before?
Call us at 707-398-8346 or email sales@arvumplantlabs.com to receive your first round of testing at a reduced price and embark on a journey to peak plant health and performance.

Empowering Growers | Transforming Cultivation

June 24, 2024
Unveiling Aluminum: Navigating Soil Health for Optimal Plant Growth

Unveiling Aluminum: Navigating Soil Health for Optimal Plant Growth

Cultivators – let’s get metal!
In the vast world of plant nutrition and soil science, certain elements play critical roles that often go unnoticed; like metals. Today, we’re shedding light on one such intriguing element: Aluminum (Al). While not typically discussed in the context of essential nutrients, Aluminum’s influence on soil chemistry and plant health is profound. Let’s explore what Aluminum is, its impact on plants and soils, and how managing its levels can ensure your crop thrives.
Understanding Aluminum’s Complex Role: The Enigma of Aluminum
Aluminum is a naturally abundant element in soils, but unlike nutrients such as Nitrogen or Potassium, it’s not required for plant growth. Instead, it’s known for its potential to impact plant health, especially in acidic soils. Understanding Aluminum’s role and its interactions with your plants is crucial for maintaining a healthy growing environment.
Aluminum in Action: The Soil Influencer
Soil pH Influence: Aluminum’s availability to plants is highly dependent on soil pH. Within soils of pH 5.5 – 8.0, aluminum is not biologically available. However, above a pH of 8.0, aluminum is soluble. Managing soil pH is thus essential to control Aluminum toxicity.
Root Growth Inhibition: High levels of soluble Aluminum can inhibit root growth by damaging root cell membranes and interfering with nutrient uptake. This can stunt plant development and reduce yields. Frequent leaf tissue analysis can help accurately determine the levels of Aluminum inside your plants.
Nutrient Interference: Excessive Aluminum can disrupt the uptake of essential nutrients like Calcium, Magnesium, and Phosphorus, leading to deficiencies even when these nutrients are sufficiently present in the soil.
Aluminum Tolerance: Some plants have evolved mechanisms to tolerate high Aluminum levels, often by exuding organic acids from their roots to neutralize Aluminum’s harmful effects.
Your Growth Partners at Arvum Plant Labs
At Arvum Plant Labs, we’re committed to demystifying plant nutrition, empowering cultivators with the knowledge and tools to overcome challenges like Aluminum toxicity. To support your journey towards optimal plant health, we’re excited to offer all new customers a discounted round of testing. This analysis will reveal the precise nutrient and aluminum levels in your plants and our team will provide recommendations, guiding your cultivation practices toward success.
Take the First Step Towards Soil Health Excellence
Ready to unlock the full potential of your plants by managing Aluminum levels and beyond?
Call us at 707-398-8346 or email sales@arvumplantlabs.com to receive a reduced price on your first round of testing and embark on a journey to peak plant health and performance!

Empowering Growers | Transforming Cultivation

June 18, 2024
Understanding the Effects of Excessive and Deficient Molybdenum Levels on Your Plants
Hello, fellow cultivators!
Last time, we unveiled Molybdenum, the micronutrient magician behind efficient nitrogen use. But magic needs balance! This blog tackles the challenges of imbalanced Molybdenum levels. We’ll explore the signs of both deficiency and excess, ensuring you can identify and address these issues for a thriving cannabis crop. Buckle up and get ready to master the art of Molybdenum balance in your garden!

Molybdenum Deficiency: The Stealthy Thief of Potential

Molybdenum deficiency can be a sneaky foe. Unlike some deficiencies with dramatic visual cues, Molybdenum starvation might progress subtly.
A proper plant tissue analysis is your best bet to confirm a Molybdenum deficiency.
But what causes this shortage in the first place? Often, it boils down to low Molybdenum levels in the soil itself. High soil pH (above 7.0) can also make it difficult for plants to absorb Molybdenum, even if it’s present.

Molybdenum Excess: Too Much of a Good Thing?

While Molybdenum is a vital player, too much of anything can be bad. Here’s how excess Molybdenum can wreak havoc on your cannabis crop:
Nutrient Lockout: An overload of Molybdenum can disrupt the uptake of other essential nutrients, even if they’re readily available. Imagine a traffic jam at the cellular level, preventing other important nutrients from reaching their destinations.
Toxicity: In extreme cases, excess Molybdenum can become toxic, causing leaf burn, scorching, and even plant death.
Molybdenum toxicity is less common than deficiency, but it can occur due to overzealous fertilization with products containing high levels of Molybdenum or using poor-quality water sources with naturally high Molybdenum content.

Finding the Sweet Spot: The Art of Molybdenum Balance

So, what’s the magic number for optimal Molybdenum levels? The good news is, cannabis plants generally require Molybdenum in minimal amounts. Here’s a handy reference for target Molybdenum values during different stages of growth:
Vegetative Stage:
Deficient: Below 0.015 PPM
Low: 0.1 PPM
High: 50.0 PPM
Excessive: Above 100.0 PPM
Flowering Stage:
Deficient: Below 0.015 PPM
Low: 0.1 PPM
High: 50.0 PPM
Excessive: Above 100.0 PPM

Keeping Your Molybdenum in Check

Here are some tips to ensure your plants have just the right amount of Molybdenum:
Regular Testing: Don’t guess! Perform regular leaf tissue testing to monitor Molybdenum levels and adjust your nutrient strategy accordingly.
pH Matters: Maintaining the optimal pH level in your soil or hydroponic solution (between 6.0 and 7.0 for soil and 5.5 to 6.5 for hydro) promotes proper Molybdenum uptake.
Quality Counts: Choose fertilizers formulated specifically for cannabis, with a balanced micronutrient profile that includes the right amount of Molybdenum.

Ready to Optimize Your Cannabis Growth? Test with Arvum Today!

Arvum Plant Labs allows new customers to undergo a complimentary leaf tissue and water examination. Reveal the precise Molybdenum levels in your crops, alongside a comprehensive assessment of all essential, supplemental, and trace nutrients. Initiate the first step towards addressing Molybdenum imbalances, whether in excess or deficiency and pave the way for optimal plant vitality and efficiency.

Don’t wait – Call 707-398-8346 and see the true nutrient levels of the plants in your cultivation!
June 10, 2024
Understanding Molybdenum and its Role in Plant Performance

Hello, fellow cultivators!
Micronutrients work together in beautiful harmony, and today, we’re turning the spotlight on Molybdenum! It might be a lesser-known name, and a debated pronunciation, but its impact is undeniable. So, what’s the deal with Molybdenum?

Molybdenum: The Master of Nitrogen Magic

Nitrogen is a powerhouse nutrient for your plants, but did you know Molybdenum (Mo) acts like a tiny wizard, unlocking its true potential?
Molybdenum is essential for nitrate reduction, the process that transforms the nitrogen your plant gulps up from the soil into usable building blocks for proteins and vital chemical reactions. No Molybdenum, no proper nitrogen utilization – a recipe for stunted growth and overall plant misery.

Critical Role in Plant Performance

Molybdenum may be a micronutrient, but its role in a thriving cannabis garden is undeniable. By understanding its importance and maintaining optimal levels, you can avoid the pitfalls of deficiency and toxicity, ensuring your plants have the tools they need to reach their full potential.
Remember, successful cultivation is about creating a balanced environment, and Molybdenum is a key piece of that puzzle. Stay vigilant, test regularly, and watch your cannabis plants flourish!

Ready to Optimize Your Cannabis Growth? Test with Arvum Today!

Arvum Plant Labs offers a free round of comprehensive leaf tissue and water testing for new clients. Discover the precise Molybdenum levels in your plants, along with a comprehensive analysis of all primary, secondary, and micronutrients by taking the first step towards achieving peak plant performance and productivity.
Don’t wait – Call 707-398-8346 and see the true nutrient levels of the plants in your cultivation!

May 7, 2024
What We’ve Learned About Potassium from Over 10,000 Tests
Hello fellow cultivators,
In our previous blog posts, we dove into the role that Potassium plays in plant performance and the effects of excessive and deficient Potassium levels. In the complex world of cannabis cultivation, managing nutrient levels is key to ensuring healthy plant growth and maximizing yield, so in this blog we’re sharing what we’ve learned from performing over 10,000 tissue tests and analyzing that data!
Our extensive analysis has provided valuable insights into potassium dynamics. First, check out this visualization of what we’ve learned about the demand for potassium during its lifecycle. Then we’ll summarize this and discuss the insights we gained.

The Crucial Spike in Potassium Demand During Flowering

Our data analysis reveals a significant trend: there is a marked increase in potassium demand as cannabis plants enter the flowering stage.
This observation is supported by the data collected from tissue tests which show a higher concentration of potassium during this critical phase. The reasons for this spike are multifaceted:
Enhanced Metabolic Activities: During flowering, cannabis plants undergo intense metabolic activities requiring increased amounts of potassium. This nutrient is essential for processes such as photosynthesis, nutrient transportation, and enzyme activation, all vital for developing buds.
Bud Formation and Development: Potassium is crucial for the regulation of water and carbohydrate transportation within the plant. These functions support the formation of sugars and starches that are essential for the density and quality of the buds.
Stress Response and Adaptation: The flowering stage can be particularly stressful for plants due to the high energy demands of bud development. Potassium helps improve plant resistance to environmental stresses like drought and temperature variations, which are common during this phase.
Cultivation Practices: Many growers adjust their nutrient regimes to increase potassium levels during flowering, anticipating the plant’s increased needs. This is often done through bloom boosters or other high-potassium fertilizer products designed to enhance flower growth and quality.

Majority Within Healthy Potassium Ranges: A Testament to Good Management
Despite the challenges posed by these increased demands, the majority of tissue tests indicate that potassium levels are maintained within healthy ranges. Our data shows that in the flowering stage, about 81% of samples fall within the ideal range, with only 0.3% showing excessive levels and 18.7% being low. This suggests that most cultivators are successful in managing potassium levels, likely because of:
Regular Monitoring: Effective nutrient management often involves regular testing and monitoring of soil and tissue nutrient levels, allowing growers to make informed decisions about fertilization.
Adaptive Fertilization Practices: Growers are increasingly adopting precision agriculture techniques, which involve adjusting nutrient applications based on the specific needs of their plants at various growth stages.
Education and Resources: The availability of detailed analytical data and cultivation guidance has empowered growers to understand and meet the specific nutrient needs of cannabis plants more effectively.

Conclusion

From analyzing over 10,000 tissue tests, it’s clear that potassium is a key player in cannabis cultivation, especially during the flowering stage. While the demand for potassium significantly increases during this period, effective management practices will help the majority of cultivators maintain it within optimal levels. This balance is crucial not only for the health of the plants but also for the quality and yield of the final product.
Want to see what’s going on inside your plants? Arvum Plant Labs provides new clients with a complimentary initial round of leaf tissue and water testing. Uncover the exact levels of Potassium in your plants and receive a thorough assessment of all macro, micro, and trace nutrients.
Call 707-398-8346 or email sales@arvumplantlabs.com and see the true nutrient levels of the plants in your cultivation! Begin your journey toward optimal plant health and productivity today!
May 1, 2024
Organic Potassium Sources and Application Methods
Hello fellow cultivators!
This month we’re focussing on Potassium (K). First we dove into the role it plays in growth and flower development, and then we discussed the issues that can come with excessive and deficient Potassium levels. In this article we want to focus on how organic growers can ensure they are maintaining the correct potassium level in their plants.
As we’ve discussed previously, Potassium (K) plays a pivotal role in the health and productivity of cannabis plants, influencing water uptake, enzyme activation, and the synthesis of proteins and starches. For organic growers, managing potassium levels using natural sources is key to promoting robust plant health and optimal yields. Here’s a guide to some effective organic potassium sources and tips on how to apply them when your plants exhibit potassium imbalances.

Common Organic Sources of Potassium

Wood Ashes:
Wood ash is an excellent source of potassium for organic growers. It’s derived from burnt hardwood and can contain up to 10% potassium. Additionally, wood ash has liming effects, which can help neutralize acidic soils.
Kelp Meal:
Kelp meal is made from dried oceanic seaweed and is not only rich in potassium but also contains a plethora of micronutrients beneficial for plant growth. It’s a slow-release source of potassium, making it gentle and effective over time. Soluble kelp is a clean and effective organic source of potassium that mitigates the sodium and heavy metals seen with typical kelp meal.
Compost:
Well-balanced compost can provide a good amount of potassium, especially if made with banana peels, orange rinds, and other fruit wastes that are high in potassium.
Greensand:
Greensand is a mineral derived from ancient oceanic deposits. It contains a form of potassium silicate that provides a slow release of nutrients, which is beneficial for maintaining soil health and ensuring a steady supply of potassium.
Sul-Po-Mag (also known as langbeinite):
A naturally occurring mineral compound that provides not only potassium but also sulfur and magnesium. This source is excellent for providing multiple nutrients and is especially useful if soil tests indicate deficiencies in any of these areas.

Expert Insights

Now that we’ve taken a look at some common organic sources of potassium we wanted to spend some time discussing some pros and cons of the different sources and things to look out for. For that we got in touch with Daniel Fink from Vital Garden Supply in Nevada County, CA. Daniel’s experience as an organic cultivator and with Vital Garden Supply gives him valuable insights into selecting organic potassium sources for cannabis cultivation.
According to Daniel, while wood ash and kelp meals are commonly suggested for its potassium content, it’s important to be cautious as it can be high in sodium and other undesirable elements. Soluble kelp provides a clean, effective, and more desirable organic source. Similarly, greensand, although a traditional source, may contain heavy metals that could be harmful. He recommends more sustainable and cleaner alternatives such as coco blends, which are rich in potash and offer a balanced potassium source.
Additionally, Daniel points out that homemade compost, especially those enriched with hemp stalk and squash waste, can have significantly higher potash levels. However, he cautions against certain manure-based composts, which might contain excessive potash due to the wood ash used in animal stalls.
These insights underscore the importance of choosing the right potassium source and testing fertilizers like manure and compost to ensure healthy plant growth and sustainable cultivation practices.

Application Methods for Addressing Potassium Imbalances

Identifying Potassium Needs:
First, it’s important to accurately assess the potassium levels in your leaf tissue and soil through testing. This is the most accurate way to objectively determine the nutrient levels inside your plants and the soil they are growing in.
For Deficient Plants:
Direct Soil Amendment: Mix any of the above potassium sources directly into the soil around the base of the plants. For example, wood ashes can be sprinkled lightly around the plant but should not come into direct contact with the stems or leaves due to its alkaline nature.
Top Dressing: Apply kelp meal or compost as a top dressing, gently working it into the top layer of soil. This method helps avoid disturbing the root system and provides nutrients closer to where they are absorbed by the plant roots.
Liquid Feeds: Create a liquid feed by steeping compost or kelp meal in water to make a compost tea, which can then be used to water plants. This provides a quicker boost of potassium if plants are showing acute deficiency symptoms.
Foliar Application: Soluble potassium sources, such as potassium sulfate or liquid kelp extract, are ideal for foliar sprays and soil drenches due to their easy solubility in water. Foliar applications involve spraying a diluted solution of nutrients directly onto the leaves of the plant, allowing for rapid absorption through the leaf surface. This method can be particularly effective for correcting nutrient deficiencies quickly, as it bypasses the soil and delivers nutrients directly where they’re most needed.
For Excessive Potassium:
Adjusting Fertilization Practices: If potassium levels are high, reduce or eliminate potassium additions, focusing instead on balancing other nutrients, particularly nitrogen and magnesium, which can be blocked by high potassium levels.
Improving Soil Biology: Enhance soil health through the addition of compost and other organic matter that boosts the biological activity in the soil. This can help improve the nutrient balance and availability.
General Tips:
Regular Monitoring: Regularly perform leaf tissue analysis to monitor nutrient imbalances and adjust your fertilization regimen accordingly.
pH Management: Ensure the soil pH is optimal for cannabis cultivation (typically between 6.0 and 7.0), as pH levels can significantly affect nutrient availability.
Using these organic sources and thoughtful application methods, organic growers can effectively manage potassium levels, leading to healthier plants and more bountiful harvests. Remember, the key to nutrient management is proper nutrient monitoring, ensuring that all nutrients are available in harmony.
Nutrient Monitoring through Leaf Tissue Analysis
Close monitoring of the nutrient levels in your plants is the only way to be sure that your plants are receiving the right amount of key nutrients, such as potassium. Ready to start using leaf tissue and soil analysis to level up your cultivation? We offer all new clients a free round of testing as a way to demonstrate the power of this information.
Contact us today at 707-398-8346 or email sales@arvumplantlabs.com to schedule your free first round of testing!
April 29, 2024
The Potassium Paradox: Striking the Perfect Balance for Plant Prosperity
Today, we’re focusing on a nutrient that is absolutely vital for your plants but can be a bit of a double-edged sword if not managed properly – Potassium (K). Too little or too much can significantly impact your plant’s health, growth, and yield. Let’s dive into the world of Potassium, uncovering the signs of imbalance, understanding its optimal levels for different growth stages, and learning how to keep everything in perfect harmony.

Potassium: A Balancing Act

Why Potassium Matters
Potassium is akin to a plant supercharger, influencing water uptake, photosynthesis, enzyme activation, and resistance to pests and diseases. It’s crucial for the overall vigor of the plant, aiding in the development of quality fruits and flowers. But, like all good things, Potassium requires balance.
Spotting the Signs of Imbalance
Potassium Deficiency: Symptoms include yellowing of leaf edges, brown scorching, and curling of leaf tips. You might notice a slower growth rate and reduced yield. Plants also become less resilient against stress and disease.
Potassium Excess: Though rarer, too much Potassium can block the absorption of other key nutrients like Magnesium and Calcium, leading to deficiencies even when those nutrients are present in the soil.
Spotting signs of an imbalance visually can be difficult, which is why leaf tissue analysis is the best way to quantify imbalances with objective data.

Knowing Your Numbers: Optimal Potassium Levels

Achieving the right Potassium level is pivotal. Here are the target values and ranges you should aim for in both the vegetative and flowering stages of growth:
Vegetative Stage:
Deficient: Below 1.0%
Low: 1.0% – 1.5%
Optimal: 1.5% – 3.5%
High: 3.5% – 5.0%
Excessive: Above 5.0%
Flowering Stage:
Deficient: Below 1.2%
Low: 1.2% – 2.0%
Optimal: 2.0% – 4.0%
High: 4.0% – 5.5%
Excessive: Above 5.5%
Maintaining Potassium within these optimal ranges ensures your plants have the support they need to grow vigorously and healthily.

Navigating Your Plants’ Nutrients Levels with Arvum

At Arvum Plant Labs, we understand the fine line between too much and too little when it comes to nutrients. That’s why we’re committed to providing you with the insights needed to navigate these waters with confidence.
Unlock Your Plants’ Potential with Leaf Tissue Analysis
For all our new clients, we’re delighted to offer a complimentary round of leaf tissue testing. This isn’t just a test; it’s a treasure map that reveals the exact nutritional status of your plants, guiding you to make informed adjustments for optimal health and yield

Take the First Step Towards Perfect Balance

Are you ready to dive deeper into your plant’s nutritional world and ensure they’re getting just the right amount of Potassium? Reach out to us at Arvum Plant Labs and claim your free round of leaf tissue analysis. Let’s work together to unlock the full potential of your plants, ensuring they thrive from root to tip.
Contact us today at 707-398-8346 or email sales@arvumplantlabs.com to request your free first round of leaf tissue analysis, and let’s grow greatness together!
April 10, 2024