Amending Clay Soil - cheaply?

[Tom_H]

The only concern that I can think of is one I stated above. If fresh organic material is tilled down into the soil, when it begins the decomposition process, it will take virtually all nitrogen from the soil. Ways to avoid the problem are to either let it partially decompose for awhile first or to 'till in some nitrogen along with it. I do not know whether the bark will take up as much N as sawdust or woodchips, but it might be worth a call to a county extension agent.

 

[RobertN]

Talk to these folks to get specific info on your area.

Clark County Master Gardeners

Wa Master Gardener

 

[PBinWA]

Thanks Robert,

It looks like the WSU online forums haven't been used for a while but the information they do have is still useful.

I found a good article from Virginia Tech that does a great job of summarizing everything I've learned since I posted my first questions:

Soil Preparation

I also found out that 25lb bags of Gypsum cost less than $4 at Lowes so I picked up a few of those this week.

Thanks again for all the good advice.

 

[RobertN]

The Master Gardeners staff offices, usually at the County Ag extension(that's the setup where we are). They usually have lots of pertinent info in the office, as well as very knowledgable folks to answer questions. Since they are a University extension, if they can not answer a question, they can get the answers from University staff.

Locally here, they have thier office, they have monthly classes, ect.

 

[PBinWA]

Thanks Robert,

Are suggesting that I actually drive some where and interract with human beings face to face? How primitive?

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I want instant online access to information and experts for free at all times!

I think I've figured out enough about this clay soil stuff to give it a try now. The worst case scenario is that I have to use my tractor to tear it all up and try again. That's not such a bad thing to have to do.

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thanks again,

Paul