Alabaster, a crytalline form of gypsum, is used for sculturing.
Gypsum is closely associated with another well-used garden soil amendment -- phosphate. Gypsum is a byproduct of mining and refining phosphate. A soft mineral made of calcium sulfate, it is used in many different applications. The United States is a leading producer of gypsum.
Availibility
Gypsum is found at garden centers and farming supply stores. It comes in bags, and is shaped into granules to be used with a spreader. Finely ground powder is available for faster action in the soil.
Soil Testing
Often used with heavy clay soil, gypsum does improve the soil structure and allow better plant growth. It also removes excessive salt from soils. According to Dr. Linda Chalker-Scott of Washington State University, it is important to have soil tested before adding gypsum. Adding it where it is not needed has a negative impact on plants and the environment.
Application
Spread one half the gypsum in horizontal strips in the yard or garden, and the balance in vertical strips to ensure an even spread. Water it in thoroughly after the application. Add gypsum any time during the growing season.
Provides Minerals
Gypsum should not be used in replacement of fertilizer. Calcium and sulfur are helpful to a plant's growth, but much more is needed to provide an optimum soil medium. Gypsum does not affect the pH balance of a soil.
Related posts
Calcium-deficient soil benefits from the addition of gypsum.Gypsum is a type of lime sometimes included in fertilizer mixtures. It contains high levels of both calcium and sulfur, with approximate...
Gypsum is a naturally occurring mineral commonly used to improve garden and agricultural soils. Always test your soil before applying gypsum or any other soil amendment, since adding gypsum to san...
A plentiful mineral mined worldwide, gypsum is a calcium rich garden supplement that has uses that extend far beyond the garden. Found in chalk, plaster, cement and even as a coagulant for tofu, g...
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...
Gypsum is a mineral rock made up of calcium sulfate. Gypsum has a long history of use in building and construction and was even used in the construction of the ancient Egyptian pyramids. Gypsum is...
