Rob Hamilton asked, "On two occasions now I have heard of beneficial
interactions of Epsom Salts and with nitrogen fertilizer.
Does anyone know if or how these two interact in the soil?
Back when I used to teach classes, I was frequently asked about Epsom
salts and nitrogen. Those who applied Epsom Salts to their plants usually
got no reaction from their plants, a bewilderment to many since it is so
widely touted as being a miracle fertilizer. I had a standard answer - if
the soil has sufficient magnesium already, adding more (Epsom Salts) won't
do anything. If your soil lacks sufficient magnesium, then Epsom Salts will
make a difference. Epsom Salts is a quick release form of magnesium but
Dolomite is more often the recommended source of magnesium because it is a
slow release form and not as likely to be leeched away. Sandy soils tend to
need magnesium whereas calcareous tend to have a sufficient amount.
Soils either have magnesium or they don't whereas nitrogen is
replenished regularly. Nitrogen dissolved in rain is converted to a form of
nitrogen that plants can use through the action of soil bacteria.
Jim Fruth
Brambleberry Farm
Pequot Lakes, MN 56472
For jams, jellies & syrups:
www.bberryfarm.com
(877)265-6856 [Store]
(218)831-7018 [My Cell]