Snow, the poor mans fertilizer.

Greetings from The No Lack Farm!

This past Tuesday here in south Alabama we had a historic winter storm that rolled through and dropped about 6.5-7 inches of actual snow. Not sleet, not frozen rain but fluffy, powdery white snow.

I grew up about 15 minutes from the farm and lived for about 13 years northeast of Atlanta, GA and have never experienced a winter storm like this.

Needless to say, it was interesting, but fun as well and I’m glad my daughters could experience it.

After having a conversation with the girls on the agricultural benefits of snow, I wondered how many of you all know that snow was once referred to as “The Poor Man’s Fertilizer”?

It’s true. Snow holds a lot of benefits inside of it for the land.

"Snow is considered the 'poor man's fertilizer'" because it naturally collects small amounts of nitrogen from the atmosphere as it falls, which is then released slowly into the soil as the snow melts, providing a natural source of nutrients for plants without the need to purchase additional fertilizer; essentially acting as a free and readily available fertilizer for farmers. 

Key points about snow as a "poor man's fertilizer":

• Nitrogen source:

The primary nutrient snow provides is nitrogen, which is essential for plant growth. 

Did you know that nitrogen is the most abundant gas in the atmosphere? Its true.

Approximately 78% of the Earth's atmosphere is composed of nitrogen.

• Slow release:

Unlike rain, snow melts gradually, allowing the nitrogen to be released slowly into the soil, preventing runoff and maximizing absorption by plants. 

• Lightning connection:

Some of the nitrogen in snow is captured from the atmosphere through lightning strikes, which break down nitrogen molecules into forms that can be used by plants. 

• Insulation benefit:

Besides providing nutrients, snow also acts as a protective layer for plants, shielding them from harsh winter temperatures.

Just some more food for thought, that goes to prove we serve a awesome God! He created nothing that does not serve a purpose in His creation.

Until next time, Stay strong in your faith, love your family and support your local community farmers!

And remember those who fear God will Lack nothing! Psalm 34:9

Kevin