Re: [CH] epsom salt
Brent Thompson (brent@hplbct.hpl.hp.com)
Mon, 15 May 2000 09:48:16 -0700
> I am not aware of any scientific tests which indicate an advantage to
> using this chemical other than to correct unusual soil mineral
> deficiencies.
I have read indications Magnesium (and some other 'M'-element, which I
believe is Manganese, but maybe Molydenum) are used in greater than normal
amounts by many plants during late stages of flower maturation and/or
initial stages of fertilization. If this is so, then in addition to the
normal value Mg has in soil chemistry, the role of Epsom salt would
presumably be to facilitate flower fertilization, or continued growth after
fertilization.
Indeed, the more I think of it, the role of Epsom salt might be to minimize
that flower bud drop problem we discuss each year concerning rocotos. As I
recall, rocoto is about the only chile I've _not_ ever given Epsom salt --
maybe I should have.
--- Brent