Soil that's ready for planting.
Gypsum, which is composed of calcium sulfate, can be ground into finely powdered particles and used as a soil conditioner. Many gardeners swear by gypsum due to the fact that it offers multiple benefits at low cost.
Function
Gypsum helps break-up compact soils, thereby improving soil structure. By improving soil structure, gypsum improves water penetration and aeration of clay soils.
Features
Soil structure is essential for soil drainage and aeration. The better the structure of oil, the greater the ease that water and air can move around in the soil solution. With only two applications a year, gypsum can improve the structure of soils to a depth of three to six inches.
Benefits
Calcium that makes up gypsum adds extra benefits to soil. When soils have too many salts, calcium in gypsum replaces the sodium held on the clay-binding sites. The sodium can then be leached from the soil. The calcium in gypsum also provides an essential micro-nutrient for plants.
Identification
Gypsum is ground into small rocks to be used as a soil conditioner. Gypsum can be sourced from different varieties of rocks including: selenite, satin spar, alabaster, desert rose, gypsum flower and gypsum rock.
Considerations
Gypsum does not supply soil with major nutrients needed to support plant life. Although gypsum will supply adequate calcium and sulfur, fertilizing may still be necessary. Gypsum is readily available at garden supply stores and online retailers. It is relatively low cost when compared to other soil conditioners.
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