Soil amendments may improve your garden's soil drainage, nutrient availability and pH levels. Always take a soil test before applying any kind of soil amendment, in order to avoid over- or under-applying.
Organic Soil Amendments
Organic soil amendments are derived from products that were once alive. Examples of organic soil amendments include include sphagnum peat, wood chips, grass clippings, straw, compost, manure, biosolids, sawdust and wood ash. Other common products include blood meal, bone meal, alfalfa meal and coffee grounds.
Inorganic Soil Amendments
Inorganic soil amendments are either produced by humans or mined. Many inorganic soil amendments are byproducts of the mining industry. Examples of inorganic products include vermiculite, perlite, tire chunks, pea gravel and sand, as well as ammonium sulfate, chelated iron, dolomite, lime and gypsum.
Pros and Cons
Inorganic soil amendments are meant to supplement the organic matter already present in the soil. Therefore, always integrate organic matter into the soil before planting. Organic matter is beneficial for practically every soil type, but don't apply it if your soil already contains at least three percent organic materials in order to avoid salt buildup. Inorganic soil amendments are usually fast-acting, and offer effective ways to treat soil pH and drainage problems. Always follow manufacturer's instructions carefully, since many are dangerous chemicals that can cause harm to plants if over-applied.
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