From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Alabama

Very heavy, muddy, clay. What are some steps I can start working toward to turning my growing grounds better? Would like to start working on section for optimal growing next year. Quick fixes for this year are also welcome. Help appreciated!

5/17/2014 2:07:59 PM

Karns City PA

I believe gypsum is good for breaking down clay soils ...

5/17/2014 3:06:34 PM

Menomonie, WI (mail@gr8pumpkin.net)

Nothing Quick about clay...several years of adding Organic matter is the only option. Gypsum will assist

5/17/2014 3:23:05 PM

Alabama

Thank you very much. I am starting a compost pile to assist. Hopefully that helps and as far as gypsum goes - have not tried that. Will check into it for sure.

5/17/2014 3:41:57 PM

Alabama

I would like to work toward not having to come out with so much bought soil. I do realize it will be a long process, but hopefully well worth it in the end result.

5/17/2014 3:43:13 PM

South Hero, VT

I would contact your county extension agent for help on how to break down your clay soil.

I have found sudan grass, winter rye and forage radish to be helpful in breaking down the clay soil in my patch, but heed the advice of Linus: Nothing quick about clay--unless you scoop out the clay and replace it with new topsoil.

5/17/2014 6:22:01 PM

Columbia, Kentucky

i had terrible clay about 4 yrs ago and with yearly addition of 3yrds of compost and ohhhh about 5- 40lb bags of gypsum, it is a year or two off of where i want it. big difference!!!

5/22/2014 12:29:44 PM

Columbia, Kentucky

by the way im just over 500sqft now. compost equates to about 2-3", adding in fall is best.

5/22/2014 12:32:03 PM

President - GPC

Cover Crop will be your friend...

5/22/2014 1:49:16 PM

Alabama

Thanks guys. Been working most of this week working compost in. Tough work. My 'kins better grow for me...lol

Ugh though, long road of soil prep ahead it would seem. Appreciate all the advice.

5/22/2014 11:23:39 PM

formerly RGG

If you have a way to haul it try advertising for free manure on your local Craigslist. My garden was originally all hard clay but has turned into great soil after adding many truckloads of manure. And all it has cost me is fuel.

5/28/2014 9:22:47 PM

Hinckley MN

dig trenches for drainage between plants. use that soil to bury vines and/or build up soil for the stump area. As long as the plant isn't sitting in standing water, clay soil can be a blessing and not a curse.

5/31/2014 10:03:01 AM