Market Farming

[John Ferree <john AT seldomseenfarm.com>]

We have some similar soils and problems in central Indiana.  In
_Rembering the Fish_ Jerome Lange suggests applying 10-40T/a of
limestone.  Supposedly the 60-100 mesh limestone adds calcium, improves
tilth and crop quality.  The effects on tilth seem to be similar to that
of gypsum - breaking of clay clods - decreased crusting.  He claims that
carrots are now sweet where they were bitter before.  Many of the
references are from _More Food From Soil Science_ and Sir Albert
Howard's writings.  (http://www.soilandhealth.org)

I'm a little hesitant to apply 40T of anything.  But after years of
fighting an uphill battle with low organic matter clay loam. . . I hope
to do a test patch next year or so.  BTW, I have not seen any extension
info or study data to back this up. . .
John
Danville, Indiana

Jay Atkerson wrote:
> I read conflicting research regarding the use of gypsum as a soil 
> amendment,  Perhaps the conflict lies in the amount of sodium in the 
> soil, but I know little about sodium content in soil.
>
> West Coast data indicate there is no value in the use of gypsum to 
> tillable soil but I live in eastern US (South Central Kentucky-Zone 6B) 
> and recently saw a local TV Gardening show where a commercial vegetable 
> farmer was praising the use of gypsum.  (To break up clay soil)
>
> Does gypsum change the pH of soil and what amounts do you apply if 
> indeed it is advisable to use gypsum?  Is there a preferred time of year 
> for its application?
>
> Finally, in an related matter, I have access to large rolls of spoiled 
> hay.  I'm looking for a "Hay unroller", (Attached to a tractor three 
> point hitch) to use as mulch between garden rows.  Does anyone know of 
> this use and where can I get this device?
>
> Jay
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