Breaking up Clay Soil

Ask Julie, Lawn and Garden, Soil & Fertilizer by Julie Day

Many years ago I used gypsum pellets to break up clay soil. We can not find them anymore but the problem of the hard packed clay soil still exists. Is there a different product that will solve this problem? - Barbara

Hi Barbara,

Gypsum is still available, but it’s not recommended for general use. Gypsum (calcium sulfate) is used specifically as a chemical remedy in crusty clay soils containing excess sodium (called “sodic soils”). These soils usually occur in western states and are best identified by chemical soil analysis.

For general purposes, routinely working organic material into your garden—such as well-rotted compost—will both condition and aerate the soil. The compost continues to break down underground, adding nutrients and workability to the soil, but this breakdown also means that the process will need to be repeated every year or so for lasting results. In my garden, I’ve had good luck with an aggregated slate product called PermaTill. Worked into the soil, it not only keeps the soil loose and uncompacted, but also acts as a deterrent to moles and voles.

Julie

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3 Responses to “Breaking up Clay Soil”

  1. Official Comment:

    Barbara Says:
    August 11th, 2008 at 12:43 pm

    Does the same thing apply for using gypsum on your lawn? It is a little hard to dig compost into a lawn.

  2. Official Comment:

    Julie Says:
    September 28th, 2008 at 10:56 am

    Yes, the same thing applies - gypsum reacts chemically with overly-salty soils, so it only works if you specifically have sodic soil.

    In the lawn, your best bet is to core aerate, then topdress by raking a thin layer of organic material over the lawn and down into the holes. It may take a few seasons, but in time your lawn soil will be well conditioned, organic, and nourished.

  3. naser Says:
    December 13th, 2008 at 9:26 pm

    hi

    I live in melbourne-Australia.
    there are a lots of cracks in our lawn around the house in the backyard specially when it is dry.some cracks can be 1meter long 3-5 cm wide 20 cm or more deep.
    please tell me what to do about them.
    thanks

    Naser

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