[net.garden] Clay content in soil

jeff@rtech (04/25/86)

> 
> I am currently investigating alternatives for loosening clay soil for
> both garden and lawn. The information I have obtained indicates that
> Gypsum will loosen clay soil through electrochemical action. The disadvantage
> is that gypsum does not permanently loosen clay soil. Gypsum keeps the soil
> conditioned for as long as there is enough soluble calcium. One thought
> was to use gypsum along with organic matter. Sand has also been used with
> some success. My question is what is the best alternative besides new dirt.
> For the garden it is somewhat easier because it can be dug up and additives 
> added, but for the lawn is is not an alternative that can be taken lightly.

My experience has been that organic matter works best.  Lots of it.  A heavy
clay soil can easily absorb its own volume in compost.
-- 
Jeff Lichtman at rtech (Relational Technology, Inc.)
"Saints should always be judged guilty until they are proved innocent..."

{amdahl, sun}!rtech!jeff
{ucbvax, decvax}!mtxinu!rtech!jeff

richard@vlad.UUCP (05/03/86)

Organics -dug in are great -redwood compost. However have found nitron
products -liquid biologics are incredible -smell good enough to eat.
probably indicates Im deficient in micronutrients.
This stuff also breaks thru hardpan.
richard karasik
....sun!arete!richard