Gypsum Can Break up Clay Soil And Reduce the Soil pHGypsum is a common and naturally occurring mineral mined all over the world from sedimentary rock formations. It is used to make plaster, drywall, some cements, Plaster of Paris and is an excellent fertilizer for heavy clay soils. It is composed largely of calcium sulfate that can reduce salinity, and consequently the pH level in alkaline heavy clay soils, while adding needed calcium. It may also contain several important micronutrients. It also breaks up and improves the structure of clay soil. This is it's most valuable feature for gardeners and farmers fighting clay. It does not seem to change the ph level or otherwise benefit sandy or non-clay soils, and would probably be a waste of money. Aluminum sulfate would be a better choice to lower pH. In lighter soils, that tend to leach nutrients anyway, gypsum increases leaching. In clay, leaching is not as much of a problem, and the increased drainage is a blessing. If you have clay soil in your garden, this ammendment is your friend. Otherwise - not so much. Apply 2 to 5 pounds per 100 square feet of garden area every couple of years to heavy clay soils. If your garden center offers a choice, buy the granular rather than powder. It is easier to apply and work in. Adding organic matter will also help greatly. Some cost conscious gardeners break up drywall scraps, which are made of gypsum, and add them to their clay soils to break it down. If you do this, forgive us gnomes if we steal a few of your scraps to drywall our burrows. Happy gardening, Geefrank
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