Why is Gypsum Critically Important When Tiling Saline Sodic Soils?

Gypsum applications after installing drainage tile is helpful in most soils because it improves the soil structure and drainage.  However, it is critically important when installing drainage tile in saline-sodic soils.  Why is this?  Once tiles are installed in these soils, salt levels will decrease with increased drainage.  As salt is removed the sodium and magnesium become the dominant cations and will cause the soils to become dispersed or lose soil structure.  By applying PRO CAL 40 gypsum the calcium will knock the sodium and magnesium off the soil clay particles and react with the sulfate sulfur.  This forms a salt that will drain through the soil.  As the sodium and magnesium are removed then calcium will become the dominant cation on the clay particles and the soil structure will be improved, drainage will increase and the tiles will be much more effective in maintaining a productive soil.  If you have installed tile and they are not working or not working as effectively as you think they should, contact us and have PRO CAL 40 applied.  You will be amazed at how much better the drainage is.

The amount of PRO CAL 40 gypsum to apply can be determined by having a soil test done.  If you have a soil test from your field, give us a call and we can make a recommendation for you.