It’s sold commercially in a granular, powdered, or pellet form for use in home gardens.
Some horticulturists believe, however, that there are more efficient and scientifically-proven solutions that are more beneficial.
What Is Gypsum Used For Globally?
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Gypsum is the most commonly utilized sulfate mineral mined across the world.
Another common usage for gypsum is for soil conditioning and fertilizing on an industrial or large-scale agricultural level.
Why Is Gypsum Used in Gardening?
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The granular or powdered form of gypsum specifically marketed towards garden use has a variety of different applications.
This is particularly helpful in areas prone to drought.
Gypsum changes the soil composition through a process called flocculation.
Another occasion when gypsum is often introduced in a garden setting is if the soil in your gardenlacks calcium.
The addition of gypsum can help to restore the balance.
Soils lacking in calcium can lead to slow and poor root development.
Most soils in North America are unlikely to be suffering from calcium deficiencies.
When they are,adding lime is often recommended.
Unlike limestone, gypsum is more soluble and effective at migrating deep into the soil.
This can be an advantage when trying to balance out acidic soils and access deep plant roots.
Plus, the gypsum won’t change the pH level of the soil like lime will.
It can also be helpful if you have a coastal garden that’s subjected to strong salty winds.
The gypsum can reduce the sodium levels in the soil.
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How Much Gypsum Should Be Used?
Applying too much gypsum to your garden soil can be problematic.
Doing a soil analysis will establish how much calcium and sulfur are already present.
You also need to apply gypsum regularly to ensure it has a continued benefit.
It isn’t enough to do one treatment and think this will be a permanent solution.
Applying a treatment at least annually will be required.
What Are the Other Alternatives?
It can also improve movement and water drainage in heavy clay soils.
