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Gypsum
Gypsum additions are food for improving clay and alkali
type soils. Clay soils often contain high magnesium
levels and little organic matter. This condition tends
to make the soil particles so tight that air and water
cannot penetrate it. Alkali soils have high sodium
levels which prevent plant, crop or turf production. By
the proper use of gypsum, these soils can be returned to
production. By adding gypsum to soils, an ion exchange
results which dramatically improves soil friability and
tilth. Once active, gypsum will give at least three
benefits. One, is conditioning of sticky-clay loam soil.
This will greatly improve water and air penetration,
promote root growth and improve plant vigor where it was
previously limited. It will loosen up and improve soil
structure and workability of clay, gumbo and compacted
soils. Second, is the direct addition of the secondary
plant foods sulfur and calcium. Third, the removal of
sodium from the clay and silt particles. It also may
reduce the ph of the soil. |
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It Will Not Cure Saline Seepage
Gypsum's effect on soil conditioning and addition of
sulfur and calcium will require only a few days, but the
removal of the sodium does require up to three years.
Gypsum is a mined product, which is a form of hydrated
calcium sulfate. There are vast natural deposits of it
in Montana, including Carbon and Stillwater counties.
Other materials which will have the same effect are iron
sulfate, aluminum sulfate and any form of elemental
sulfur (rock, powder, flakes). These do require more
time than gypsum in order to condition the soil. Use
about one ounce of these materials per square yard or
three feet by three feet area. Gypsum may be applied
anytime of the year, when the soil is workable. |
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Application Rates for Gypsum
Heavy clay soil 20 to 30 pounds per 100 square feet. May
be applied every four years till desired results are
achieved.
Lighter clay soils 20 to 30 pounds per 1,000 square
feet. may be applied every other year till desired
results are achieved. These previous rates may be
applied to established lawn areas After application,
irrigate for one hour. Water regularly afterwards to
continue the movement of the gypsum into the soil.
Gypsum may be tilled or worked into the garden area
during spring preparation.
Alkaline Areas 30 to 40 pounds per 100 square feet.
After application, flood area about four times before
planting. May be applied every four years till desired
results are achieved.
Shrubs 2 pounds around each shrub, then water in. May
be done annually.
Roses 1 pound mixed with well rotted manure. May be
put around roses up to four times a year. |
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 Ranunculus
Radiant |
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 Peony
Bashful |
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 Iris
My compliments |
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