Improving
Sandy Soils
A very sandy soil will grow very little plant life unless organic
matter of some type is added to it. The only way for a soil to acquire
organic matter in proper proportion is for the garden enthusiast
to incorporate it himself. Organic matter improves the texture of
sandy soil by filling the spaces between the tiny stones (of which
sand is actually composed). The filling of the spaces also increases
the water-holding and nutrient-holding capacity of the soil, therefore,
holding both water and fertilizer where it is available to plants.
Organic Matter
Organic matter consists of materials derived from plants and includes
such materials as animal manures, peat moss, straw, leaves, compost,
native peat, old sawdust, garden refuse and sod. Organic matter
is a temporary product and must be maintained in the soil. For most
gardens the incorportation of organic matter into the soil each
year is a simple matter; but for lawns, organic matter can be incorporated
only at the time of construction.
Rate of Application
Several months of preparation should go into supplying sandy soils
with organic matter to properly improve the soil. Several applications
of organic matter several weeks apart should be thoroughly incorporated
into the soil and allowed to settle before planting. The organic
materials should be applied at the rate of 6 to 7 cubic yards
per 1000 sq. ft. of soil surface. This would amount to about
a 2 inch layer of organic matter spread over the soil surface.
This would be incorporated into the top 5 or 6 inches of soil.
Lighter applications are of little value.
Incorporate thoroughly
The organic matter can be spaded, forked or plowed in, but should
be thoroughly mixed with the existing soil. The most satisfactory
method is roto-tilling. It is best to accomplish this incorporation
several months prior to planting to allow time for the organic matter
to break down and settle itself in the soil. If available, some
topsoil mixed in along with the organic matter would further benefit
sandy soils. When using native peats, have your soil checked for
lime requirement because this material is usually quite acid.
Do Most Important Areas
If available time or money prevent improving your entire area at
one time, do the flower beds, vegetable garden and specific small
areas for trees and shrubs. Bed areas for flowers and vegetables
should be prepared as described above. For trees and shrubs dig
a hole large enough to take the root system with ample room on all
sides and at least 18" deep. Use a mixture of 1/3 good loam,
1/3 organic matter and 1/3 original soil in the bottom hole and
to backfill around the plant. Mix the three parts thoroughly before
planting. Where plants are already growing, sandy soils can be improved
somewhat by using mulches of organic matter. The mulch should be
about 2" in depth and applied each year. For most shrubs and
perennials, the mulch should be applied in late fall after all growth
has ceased and the plants have hardened off.
- John T. Williams
Return
to Plant Culture and Maintenance fact sheet index
|
