Clay soil improvement in Michigan

» shannon_roach - Clay soil improvement in Michigan

Does anyone who has gardened in clay soil in Michigan have any suggestions regarding soil improvements? I have improved some beds in the front yard (full to part-shaded area) with peat moss, manure & humus and am growing shrubs, perennials and annuals successfully. I am about to create a 100 ft. x 6 ft. bed in the back of the lot in a fully sunny area and want to make sure I am improving it the best way (or at least a pretty darn good way). I have received so much conflicting advice. Right now, I am planning to amend the soil with peat moss and manure, and then go back and add in gypsum. I have received suggestions that humus and sand would be better. After I've amended the beds, I plan to send in soil samples for testing to add additional fertizilers/amendments. Any advice you can offer? If you like to respond directly, my e-mail is shannon_roach@mccann.com. Thanks in advance for the advice!

-- posted by shannon_roach

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» Carol Wallace - Gypsum

Don't bother. It works on clay soils in the west, but does very little to help the clay on this side of the Rockies.

I'm in PA and we have clay, too. The anure and compost and peat are good - but make sure the peat is well mixed in or it will form a crust and be even worse that the clay.

I'd avoid sand - they make adobe from clay and sand. The way I have improved my own soil is with mulch. I started, as you did, and then put several inches of mulch on top and planted. As it decomposes it breaks down and becomes lovely, soft soil.

You can't really get instant great topsoil unless you build a raised bed and fill it with a good mix. But with a little patience and some help from the worms you can create it.

-- posted by Carol Wallace

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