greensand

[peppero]

could anyone provide information about how they have used greensand and if there were any detectable results? any help would be appreciated. peppero.

[TomNJ]

I used greensand many years ago when I was fully organic, but there was no way to tell if this one variable among many caused any improvement. I stopped using it when an agriculture scientist at Rutgers told me that its breakdown rate is so slow that its effectiveness as an available source of potassium for plants is essentially meaningless. I don't really know if that is true and would love to see some data.

TomNJ

[fortyonenorth]

More importantly than potassium, greensand contains calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron and more than thirty other trace minerals. It is said to bind sandy soils, which I have in spades. I use interchangeably with dried kelp in my garden beds as well as a component of my seed starting mix.

I'm happy with my results but I've never done side-by-side tests to measure any improvement. I see it as just one component of a diverse mineral diet for my soil.

[biscgolf]

as 41 said, it is a great source of micronutrients... does break down slowly however...

[davespitzer]

None of the nurseries or big box stores in my area (Sierra Nevada foothills east of Stockton) sell greensand, and the ag suppliers I've called in the valley aren't interested in small sales. I hate to pay shipping on orders, too, so I would rather pick stuff up when I'm in the valley on other business. Anybody know a supplier in the Stockton or Sacramento area of California where greensand, phosphate rock, etc. are available in smaller (100 lbs or so) quantities, at reasonable cost? Dave

[tjg911]

when i moved here 12 years ago i added it to my new garden but not since. as noted it is slow to break down, iirc it is 7 years. seems adding compost at all plantings with leaves each fall and manure every 5 years i'm covered.

[peppero]

thanks for all the replies. i just hope i helps. peppero

[rwsacto]

Originally Posted by davespitzer

None of the nurseries or big box stores in my area (Sierra Nevada foothills east of Stockton) sell greensand, and the ag suppliers I've called in the valley aren't interested in small sales. I hate to pay shipping on orders, too, so I would rather pick stuff up when I'm in the valley on other business. Anybody know a supplier in the Stockton or Sacramento area of California where greensand, phosphate rock, etc. are available in smaller (100 lbs or so) quantities, at reasonable cost? Dave

Emigh hardware in Sacramento has Whitney Farms Greensand in 5 lb boxes. about $5 each.

Rick

[kevinrs]

if you don't find a better price: an amazon seller has it for 9.00 + 19.00 shipping for 40 lbs

[TerraGenics]

Originally Posted by TomNJ

I used greensand many years ago when I was fully organic, but there was no way to tell if this one variable among many caused any improvement. I stopped using it when an agriculture scientist at Rutgers told me that its breakdown rate is so slow that its effectiveness as an available source of potassium for plants is essentially meaningless. I don't really know if that is true and would love to see some data.

TomNJ

I'd have to disagree with that. I work with an agriculture consultant who manages nutrient programs on farms and he said in a highly biologically active soil environment you'll see the first K response in about 6 months. He said it lasts up to about 3 years. In more 'dead' soil it'll probably take up to 10 years to break down. He uses greensand in areas where there's lower rainfall because he cannot use K sulfates, such as langbeinite (K-Mag), due to sulfur buildup.

As others said a good source of trace minerals/elements and iron. Also a great soil conditioner.

It is said to bind sandy soils, which I have in spades.

You should try a product from Advancing Eco Agriculture called HumaCarb. It's an ultra micronized lignite and should really help you. Very inexpensive at like $12 (?) a gallon and a little goes a long way. They are the manufacturer also so direct from the source. The stuff really works.

[davespitzer]

Originally Posted by rwsacto

Emigh hardware in Sacramento has Whitney Farms Greensand in 5 lb boxes. about $5 each.

Rick

Thanks Rick- I need larger quantities than that, have to cover a lot of so-so soil. But I do appreciate the info! Dave

[TerraGenics]

Originally Posted by davespitzer

Thanks Rick- I need larger quantities than that, have to cover a lot of so-so soil. But I do appreciate the info! Dave

Try Peaceful Valley.

[davespitzer]

I'll do that! Thanks again! Dave