Should I use Gypsum or Dolomite?

Question

I am preparing three holes for planting. The soil I have struck is moist and cloddy, sticks to the spade etc.even though we are in extreme drought conditions. I don't have a leaking pipe,and when I water it forms a mini quogmire although it has drained away after about half an hour. The soil looks great, except for the clodding,I think it is going to need something to help create air and drainage. It is not clay, so do I use Gypsum or Dolomite. Thanks.

Great, why do I bother.

Answer 1

It sounds like you have a very heavy clay soil. What I'd suggest you use to help correct this problem is to add a generous amount of 3 parts bagged compost and 1 part bagged steer/chicken manure... then mix it in with your soil. After mixing the compost/manure and soil together, you can backfill this mixure into your holes.

Try spreading this mixture over the top of your soil around the plants about every 6 months. This application replenishes the microbial population and also provides a food source for them.

Good compost and composted manure contain microscopic beneficial organisms that will begin to congregate around the roots of your plants as well as open up air spaces....allowing oxygen and water to move more freely throughout the soil profile. The roots of your plants won't have to contend with hard soil and they'll grow healthier. These beneficial organisms are also able to help protect the roots from diseases and nematodes as well as help those roots utilize available nutrients.

There's nothing wrong with using gypsum or lime (depending on the pH of your soil) along with what I've suggested.

Hope this information helps. GOOD LUCK and feel free to write me directly if you have further questions.

(certified professional crop consultant with a degree in plant science)

Answer 2

Hi,
I would most likely use gypsum, as this will help lower the pH a bit plus add some sulfur to your soil.
I'm not aware what your planting, but I for sure would add a generous amount of contractor-grade sand. (its the white colored sand found in potting mixes), generous amounts of pine bark mulch that is in small pieces, and if your planting sites aren't too big, a generous amount of pyrlite for aeration.
This is a general idea of what I do here in No. IL, zone 5
Hope this helps, but I suggest going over to the website at this link, I believe you will find out more info concerning your project.
http://forums2.gardenweb.com/forums/soil/

http://forums.gardenweb.com/forums/

Take Care,
Dave

Answer 3

Sand or Gypsum sound good. You use Gypsum because it doesn't alter the PH will dolomite can.

I have used gypsum with great success in a similar situation.

Answer 4

sand

Answer 5

be careful with dolmite it burns your skin