The 50-lb Pelletized Gypsum Soil Amendment by J.R. Simplot Co. is a highly effective soil conditioner that enhances soil productivity and improves soil health. This product, which is also sold as Soil Buster®, is perfect for gardeners and landscapers who want to improve their soil by removing unpleasant sodium and adding good calcium. Its clean, dust-free pellets are easy to apply, and it will help create water and air movement in the soil, which will give healthier plants.
Benefits of Using
Many positive changes in the soil, water infiltration, and generalized plant vigor can be achieved with the use of the Soil Buster.
- Better Soil Structure: The calcium found in Soil Buster® works to reduce soil compaction for increased pore space. This gives plant roots an easier time growing and reaching for water and nutrients.
- Improved Water Drainage: Soil Buster® allows water to move through the soil profile, minimizing waterlogging and improving irrigation efficiency.
- Nutrient Availability: Soil Buster's® gypsum helps to release important nutrients that may be trapped or bound in the soil, allowing the plant roots to take them up.
- Environmentally Friendly: It’s a natural product and won’t harm the user and surroundings. It doesn’t include any toxic chemicals, so it’s an excellent option for gardeners looking to eliminate synthetic solutions.
How to Use
Using Soil Buster can lead to various improvements in soil structure, water movement, and overall plant health.
- Lawns and Turf: Apply 10 pounds per 1,000 sq. ft. of Soils Buster® every 5 – 6 weeks on lawns and turfgrass. That will aid in loosening the soil and stimulating healthy development.
- Vegetable Gardens and Flowers: Apply Soil Buster® at a rate of 20 pounds per 1,000 square feet for vegetable gardens and flower beds. Work it into the soil to aid root development and enhance access to nutrients.
- Pre-Plant for Gardens: If preparing a garden for planting, apply 40 pounds of Soil Buster® per 1,000 square feet and mix it into the soil before planting.
- Shrubs and Trees: For established shrubs, roses and trees, apply ½ to 1 lb. Soil Buster® around each plant twice yearly from spring and fall to promote a deep root system.
- Compost Piles: Soil Buster® can also be incorporated in compost piles. Add roughly 1 pound of gypsum per wheelbarrow of clippings to help adjust the pH and enhance compost quality.
Application Tips
For best results, apply according to the guidelines for different types of plants and soil conditions.
- Use When Dry: Apply Soil Buster® when the ground is dry; water the area very well after application to ensure it is absorbed.
- Check Spreader Settings: To ensure proper coverage, calibrate the spreader per the recommended settings on the product label. This will allow for the pellets to be evenly distributed.
- Apply Regularly: For maximum soil health, Soil Buster ® should be used once every 5 to 6 weeks throughout the growing season.
Summary
The Pelletized Gypsum Soil Amendment by J.R. Simplot Co. (Soil Buster®) is perfect for practitioners who want to improve their soil condition. By partially replacing sodium with calcium, it helps form stable soil aggregates that contribute to a greater pore space, loosening soil, improving water movement, and allowing for increased water drainage.