I live on clay dirt that does not absorb water well who can I call to find out what the problem is?

Question

All my plants are dying out at the roots.

Answer 1

Find a local geotechnical firm to test your soil for the following properties:
Solubility, Absorption, and content ratios of : Sulfates, sodium sulfates, and other organic matter

It also may be the fact that the clay has too many fine particles, which prohibit the moisture from seeping further into the ground; a cheap solution would be to purchase soil with a higher sand and/or gravel content, which will allow moisture to seep down into the roots.

Answer 2

The addition of a good compost, along with chicken & steer manures, will do wonders for your soil. Many people know that they're very good in supplying organic matter to your soil but they also contain many beneficial organisms (good bacteria & fungi). These organisms help form soil aggregates (small clumps of soil particles adhered together). Soil aggregates will help open up your soil which allows oxygen and water to penetrate more readily.

The good bacteria and fungi, found in compost, will help defend your plants from plant pathogens and nematodes that attack roots and also help retain nutrients so the plant can utilize them better

I would suggest you;

1) Sprinkle irrigate the soil 24 to 48 hours prior

2) Apply adequate amounts of compost & manures over the entire area to be treated

3) Rototill them deep into your soil

4) Keep the soil moist (not soaked)

You'll find that your soil will become much softer and retain more water and nutrients so the plant can utilize them better.

NOTE: Don't use mushroom compost since it doesn't contain these beneficials

Hope you found this information useful! GOOD LUCK!!!

-(Former compost manufacturer with many years experience in agriculture)

Answer 3

You just described your problem. You have clay dirt that does not absorb water well.

Your plants are not getting enough drainage. You need to mix in lots of mulch and sandy loam at least a foot into your native soil. You may also want to consider using raised beds.

Answer 4

Take a sample of the soil to your local plant nursery and ask them to tell you how to amend the soil to make conditions more favorable for plant growth.

Answer 5

You could try calling the local County Extension Office and ask to talk to their Master Gardeners or their Gardening Help Line.

Answer 6

Dig out top of your clay dirt and put top soil with fertilizer.

Answer 7

add gypsum, till soil, work in frtilizer.
Or plant things in pots.
Hard to grow stuff in clay soil .

Answer 8

someone with a big shovel