Dolomitic lime raises soil pH; gypsum helps correct overly dense, clay-like soil.
Acidity and alkalinity are measured in pH units from zero to 14. Dolomitic lime raises soil pH so it becomes less acidic. Most plants grow best in slightly acidic soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. Gypsum corrects dense clay-like soil but does not change soil pH. Gypsum is also used to counteract overly saline soil. Gypsum cannot be used instead of dolomitic lime. According to the Master Gardener program at North Carolina State University, "It doesn't change the soil pH. Use lime until your pH is at the desired level. Then use gypsum to add more calcium. "
Instructions
1. Test the pH level of your soil. Compare the pH-level test result to the desired pH level for the crop you want to grow. Soils in moist climates tend toward acidity, soils in arid climates tend towards alkalinity.
2. Add dolomitic lime to raise the soil's pH if indicated by the soil-test result. Follow the application directions on the package for the amount to use per square foot. It is available in powdered or pellet form. Dolomite lime increases biological activity in the soil, which also improves soil structure.
3. Retest the soil pH until the desired acid-alkaline balance is reached for the particular crop you are growing. Continue to add dolomite lime as needed.
4. Test soil density by feel and touch. If soil compacts into a ball when held, it is overly dense and would benefit from gypsum. Ideal soil has a texture that is loose and crumbly.
5. Add the gypsum according to the directions and amount on the package label. Gypsum creates porous spaces to contain air and water in the soil particles, thereby improving soil structure.
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