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market-farming - Re: [Market-farming] Use of Gypsum

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  • From: John Ferree <john AT seldomseenfarm.com>
  • To: Market Farming <market-farming AT lists.ibiblio.org>
  • Subject: Re: [Market-farming] Use of Gypsum
  • Date: Tue, 02 Oct 2007 07:06:32 -0400

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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