When gypsum is used to improve soil structural characteristics, it should be applied as early as possible prior to sowing a crop or pasture. After application, the gypsum should be thoroughly incorporated into the soil.
Understanding Gypsum Application
Applying gypsum effectively involves considering timing and incorporation, particularly when aiming to improve soil structure. The process facilitates the displacement of undesirable ions like sodium and magnesium from the surface of clay particles, replacing them with calcium. This exchange is key to soil structure improvement.
Key Application Steps:
Based on common practices and the provided reference, the application of gypsum for soil improvement follows specific steps:
- Timing is Crucial: Apply as early as possible prior to sowing a crop or pasture. This allows sufficient time for the gypsum to react with the soil before planting.
- Spread Evenly: Gypsum is typically applied as a granular or powdered material. It needs to be spread uniformly across the soil surface to ensure consistent treatment.
- Incorporate Thoroughly: After application, it should be thoroughly incorporated into the soil. This mixes the gypsum with the soil particles, allowing the calcium to readily interact with the clay surfaces and displace sodium. Incorporation can be done using tillage equipment like plows, discs, or cultivators.
- Moisture Activation: While not always explicitly stated on labels, moisture (rainfall or irrigation) is necessary for the gypsum to dissolve and the calcium ions to become mobile in the soil solution, enabling the desired chemical reactions.
By following these steps, especially the early application and thorough incorporation mentioned in the reference, gypsum can effectively work to improve soil structure by facilitating the displacement of sodium and magnesium with calcium on clay particles.
