Adding Gypsum to Soil

[morpheus83uk]

Hello,

I have a fairly simple question, since were having a lot of rain and I would like to soften my soil before spring comes so its easier to turn and plant new plants etc I have added some gypsum last year and its broke up a fair bit of the clay however I am waiting for the appropriate time to do this again before I have to start in the garden.

My question is can I apply gypsum to wet soil? If so I presume it will just do as it would do normally and bind to the clay? But maybe quicker since the soil is already moist?

Its a guess but I am wondering as I don't want to screw up my garden and have a harder job come spring!

Thanks

James

 

[JohnD]

IME it is much easier in dry soil, as you can rake it in to mix it, and it forms a small crumb

Heavy, wet soil tends to stay in big clumps, and the gypsum to set into lumps, instead of mixing. The gypsum will eventually get so wet that it softens and breaks up, but this takes time and then you need to rake it again to mix.

 

[morpheus83uk]

Thanks,

So basically just leave it to dry out? I was thinking of just putting it on the surface so that when it rains it can be driven in that way or would that not work?

 

[JohnD]

I think it will just form a crust on the top.

 

[morpheus83uk]

Thanks I will let the soil dry out a bit then and hopefully will be able to do it just before spring! I want to add some into the lawn as well so if I have to get the hose out to water it in a fair bit I may as well do it when the soil is going to be able to dry out.