The key to a healthy plant starts with the soil. A handful of good soil contains billions of microscopic organisms that will decompose organic material, process and supply nutrients to the plant, and improve soil structure for deeper root growth and water absorption.

“This is how nature was intended to work,” said Jim Hepper, president of Cascade Spray Service, “producing hearty plants with their own defense systems against insects and disease.

Unfortunately, Hepper added, each spring gardeners spend a large amount of time, money, and labor on their landscapes often overlooking the health of their soil. The result is an unhealthy plant which invites insect and disease problems.

One way to restore the biology to soils is with the use of compost teas, Hepper said. A well-made compost tea is created by extracting the microorganisms from special blends of compost into an aerobic water solution with nutrients and allowing them to multiply over an 18 to 30 hour period. By applying this to the yard it introduces a diverse population of biology to the soil.

“There is a biologically active and environmentally friendly alternative to chemicals,” Hepper said. “Remember, soil without biology is just dirt.”

More information is available from Cascade Spray Service, a family owned and operated business serving both residential and commercial properties, at 425.885.9874 or at www.cascadesprayservice.com