A Gardeners Forum Forums Gardening Reference Gardening in 2006 Greensand

I finally got some. Now can someone tell me how to use it to loosen up the clay? There is still so much I need to learn.

What did you actually buy bags, bulk (truckload)?
I have been kind of looking for some for use as a natural type fertilizer. I intend to just scatter it in around plants. It is not something that will work very quick but beneficial long term.
ranger

I went to the natural planet website and ordered a 5 lb bag. They also have 50 lb bags but my garden is small.

I'm trying to reclaim a neglected slope of clay at the edge of my landlords property. I've managed to terrace two levels and plant a variety of plants on them. But now, I want to go higher; but, it is impossible to get the clay out to build the next shelf because the slope steepens to the point where I can't get above it and sink a shovel into the clay. So I'm having to use a hand pick and spade. Water helps some but since I'm below the clay I'm working on I get very wet doing it that way. I was hoping the greensand would help. Sounds like I made a mistake.

I guess I'll just have to keep building up rather than digging it out.

so my garden is 8ft x 16ft. i was adding some peat moss each year to loosen up the soil, but was told recently this was not a good idea. SOOO..... can i add a little greensand each year to help it loosen up? how much would i add for the size garden i have? and does it add any nutrients or use up any or does it just simply loosen up dirt???

Here is a link to Obywans post about green sand.
Greensand

Tammy I also use greensand as well as Lava sand for fertilizer. To loosen the clay soil you will need a bunch depending on how much area you are talking about. To plant a rose in red clay here I mixed in about 2 pounds to help get it to drain. Like I said I also use lava sand I get both at HD or a nursery. Some times Wal-Mart will have it.

The thing to loosen up clay soils is gypsum and the thing to improve the clay soil is compost and organic matter. Any soil will be improved by adding compost and organic matter. More is better. It's a sight cheaper too i think than adding bulk sand.
I thought greensand was a potassium source.

I've had a terrible time trying to establish decent garden beds with the lousy clay soil we have in this area, so I've use calcium sulfate (gypsum) to help reduce soil compaction and to help with aeration and drainage. About 4 years ago I also started using Li'L Perk to soften the clay soil and improve water penetration and I've been satisified with the results.