Lime dolomite flour method of application. Lime or dolomite flour: pros and cons. Instructions for use for individual beds in the country

Dolomite flour is the most popular and effective tool to quickly reduce the acidity of the soil. Low consumption, environmental friendliness and low cost are the main advantages of this substance. In this article, we will explain what is dolomite flour and how to use it in gardening.

Dolomite flour has proven to be a convenient natural remedy to reduce soil acidity. It is a crystalline carbonate mineral with a characteristic luster and light color from white to gray. In some cases, the flour may acquire a reddish and even brown tint. Dolomite flour is obtained industrially by crushing the dolomite mineral into small pieces. The tool is popular not only among summer residents, but also lovers of home gardening. Unlike the most well-known means for reducing soil acidity, dolomite flour is not so expensive, and its consumption is much less. So, slaked lime, containing a calcium ion and a hydroxyl group, “deacidifies” the soil too much and sharply, as a result of which plants cannot adapt to new conditions and absorb phosphorus very slowly. For this reason, lime should only be applied to autumn period when the crop is harvested, and the earth has time to come into relative chemical equilibrium before the next gardening season. Wood ash is another powerful way to reduce acidity. It contains from 30% to 60% calcium salts, but the problem is that it is impossible to know the exact composition. It depends on the type of trees used for the production of ash, on the parts of the plant that went into processing (roots, trunk, branches), on the nature of the soil and the climatic conditions of the area where these trees grew. It is completely impossible to calculate the exact amount of ash at home without chemical analysis, so you have to act at random. Most often, the ashes are used for seedlings and indoor plants because it contains a sufficient amount of potassium, magnesium and phosphorus. In both cases (lime and ash), fertilizer is required 2 times more than dolomite flour, if we consider the same unit area. Properties of dolomite flour Dolomite flour is a powdered dolomite. It is a mineral with a high percentage of calcium. Over time, after long-term use of soil for cultivation fruit crops her Chemical properties are deteriorating, so replacement of the lost elements is required. The addition of dolomite flour allows you to maintain the required level of hydrogen and calcium ions artificially. When lime meal enters the fertile soil layer, it not only neutralizes its acidity, but also enriches micro and macro elements useful for plants. How and when to make dolomite flour? The main advantage of the fertilizer lies in its versatility - in addition to the fact that flour can be applied at any time of the year, it helps to improve the yield of almost any crop: berries, vegetables, fruits, cereals and even flowers. Moreover, fertilizer with lime flour gives the same positive effect in the garden in the fresh air, and in greenhouses or at home on the windowsill. Particularly effective in sandy soils and soils with a low magnesium content. It is not recommended to use flour on soil with neutral acidity, since in this case it can only upset the natural physico-chemical balance. What effect does flour have after being applied to the soil: improving the biological characteristics of the soil; increase in the content of micro- and macroelements, minerals necessary for plants; improving the efficiency of other applied formulations; improving the quality of plant nutrition; improvement of productivity and quality of products; removal of radionuclides from the harvest (environmentally friendly products); calcium in the composition of flour contributes to the rapid growth and development of not only the ground parts of plants, but also root systems; Magnesium in the composition of flour helps to improve photosynthesis. Dolomite flour is known as effective remedy for pest control with absolute non-toxicity in relation to soil and horticultural crops. The smallest particles of flour act as a highly irritating abrasive, destroying the chitinous shells of insects. The use of dolomite flour To determine required amount dolomite fertilizer, you should find out the acidity of the soil in the area and its mechanical composition (sandy, clay, light, heavy, etc.). To do this, it is recommended to use the appropriate devices and disposable tests, which are sold in any gardening store. The acidity of the soil is expressed in pH and is indicated by numbers from 0 to 14. There are three types of acidity: weak - pH from 7 and above; neutral - pH7; acidic - pH below 7. You can measure the acidity of the soil at home: The effectiveness of the use of dolomite flour will increase if it is added simultaneously with copper sulphate and boric acid. And one more useful video that will help you determine the characteristics of the soil before deoxidizing the soil with dolomite flour: How to fertilize the earth Depending on the acidity of the earth, dolomite flour should be applied to the soil in different proportions. So, in acidic soil, you need to add about 600 g per sq. m, in neutral - up to 500 g per sq. m, in slightly acidic - up to 350 g per sq. m. If you are dealing with light sandy soils, reduce this amount by 1.5 times, if with heavy clay soils, increase by 10-15%. Helpful Hint: To increase the effectiveness of lime meal, try to distribute it as evenly as possible on the ground. The benefits of properly spread fertilizer will last for 7-10 years. It should be borne in mind that plants may respond to flour application in different ways. Based on this, garden and horticultural crops are divided into several groups: Intolerance to acidic soils - this group includes beets, white and red cabbage, alfalfa, sainfoin. These crops feel comfortable only on slightly acidic or neutral soil. Yield improvement is observed even when dolomite flour is added to non-acidic soils. It is sensitive to high acidity, but wheat, barley, beans, corn, soybeans, beans, cucumbers, lettuce, clover, onions can grow. Soils with neutral or low acidity are best suited for these crops. Radishes, millet, rye, timothy grass, buckwheat, tomatoes and carrots are practically not susceptible to high acidity. These crops grow equally well on soils with acidity from pH 4 to pH 7.5. For growing potatoes and flax, flour is required only in acidic and medium acidic soils. So, if potatoes grow in acidic soil, they will definitely become infected with scab, and the level of starch in the tubers will decrease significantly. Flax under such conditions will get sick with calcium chlorosis, which will affect the quality of the fibers. Features of soil fertilizer If your site is located on heavy clay soil, then the application of dolomite fertilizer should occur annually. For all other types of soil, it is required to make it every 3-4 years. Despite the fact that you can fertilize the earth with flour at any time, it is still better to do it in the fall so that by spring the earth becomes as harmonious as possible chemically. Flour should be distributed as evenly as possible, loosening 10-15 cm into the ground and mixing properly. If you simply scatter dolomite, but do not dig up the ground, the effect of such a “fertilizer” will appear only after a year, when the precipitation is washed away. It is very useful to fertilize the soil with both flour and manure at the same time, but you cannot mix them together. First scatter the flour, then the manure, and only after that you can dig. If cherries and plums grow in your garden, feed them annually with 1-2 kg of dolomite flour after harvesting - this way you will receive consistently large and juicy fruits every year. Those who grow blackcurrants can be recommended to apply 500 g of flour every 2 years for each bush, and for especially large bushes, you can even be generous with 1 kg. Cabbage and turnips will grow faster and larger if dolomite flour is added at planting. Dolomite "milk" is another horticultural trick. IN spring period water from time to time vegetable crops water mixed with flour. Dolomite flour is not suitable for fertilizing sorrel and gooseberries. For growing flowers, flour should be applied before planting, poured into a hole or pot and thoroughly mixed with the ground. This fertilizer is very fond of violets, hyacinths and orchids. Never mix dolomite limestone powder with ammonium nitrate, urea, ammonium sulfate or superphosphate as a dangerous reaction may occur. Get ready for the fact that the positive impact of dolomite flour will not appear immediately, but gradually. Greatest Benefit it begins to bring on the 2nd and 3rd year after liming the soil, increasing crop yields by 5-15%. We hope this article helped you figure out how to use dolomite flour in the garden to always get rich harvests.

There are universal fertilizers that are of natural origin. With them, the harvest in the garden will always be good and environmentally friendly. One of these dressings is dolomite flour, which is made from rock. How to use dolomite flour correctly?

What is dolomite flour

Dolomite (limestone) flour is a crushed dolomite belonging to the group of carbonate rocks. It is produced in accordance with GOST 14050-93, according to which the particles do not exceed 2.5 mm; fractions up to 5 mm, but not more than 7%, are allowed. Limestone flour is widely used in home gardens to deoxidize soils and control insects with chitinous cover. For other living organisms, the product is safe. But nevertheless, the flour contains extremely small particles, work with it should be carried out in calm weather, if possible protecting your eyes and respiratory tract.

Photo gallery: Dolomite path - from the mountain to the garden plot

Dolomite - rock Dolomite flour is produced on an industrial scale Dolomite (limestone) flour can be white, gray and even orange color Dolomite flour is packaged in bags

Dolomite flour is sold in stores, packaged in 5 or 10 kg, has a white or grey colour. In its production, third-party chemical elements are not mixed in, since dolomite is useful in itself.

How smaller particles dolomite flour, the higher its quality.

Table: advantages and disadvantages of dolomite flour

Table: chemical composition of dolomite flour

The percentage of moisture in dolomite flour is allowed within 1.5%.

Recommendations for the use of fertilizer depending on the type of soil

The norms for the introduction of dolomite flour depend on the chemical and biological composition of the soil in the country or personal plot. For one square meter required:

• with acidic soil (pH less than 4.5) - 600 g,
• with medium acid soil (pH 4.6–5) - 500 g,
• with slightly acidic soil (pH 5.1–5.6) - 350 g.

For maximum effect limestone flour is evenly distributed throughout the site and mixed with the soil (about 15 cm from the top layer). You can simply scatter the remedy over the ridges, in which case it will begin to act no earlier than in a year. Dolomite does not burn plant leaves. Its effect at the right doses is 8 years.

The introduction of dolomite flour on the ridges is best done in the fall

There are plants that grow on acidic soils and therefore can die from the presence of dolomite flour in the soil. By responsiveness to the introduction of such fertilizers, crops are divided into four main groups:

1. They do not tolerate acidic soils, plants grow well on neutral and alkaline soils, and react positively to the introduction of dolomite even on slightly acidic soils. These crops include: alfalfa, all types of beets and cabbage.
2. Sensitive to acid soil. Plants of this group prefer neutral soils and respond positively to the introduction of limestone powder even on slightly acidic soil. These are barley, wheat, corn, soybeans, beans, peas, beans, clover, cucumbers, onions, lettuce.
3. Weakly sensitive to changes in acidity. Such crops grow well in both acidic and alkaline soils. Nevertheless, they respond positively to the introduction of dolomite flour in the recommended rates for acidic and slightly acidic soil. These are rye, oats, millet, buckwheat, timothy grass, radish, carrots, tomato.
4. Plants that need liming only when the soil is acidic. Potatoes, for example, when dolomite flour is applied without the recommended amount of potash fertilizers, can get sick with scab, the starch content in tubers decreases, and flax can get sick with calcium chlorosis.

Table: rules for applying dolomite flour

For other garden crops, dolomite is applied two weeks before planting in quantities depending on the acidity of the soil.

Dolomite flour in greenhouses is distributed over the ridges in the amount of 200 g per 1 sq.m. Only in contrast to open ground the soil in this case is not dug up. Dolomite creates a film that retains moisture.

There are two most popular methods of liming the soil. They are named after their agronomist developers:

1. The Mitlider method. Instructions: for 1 kg of dolomite flour take 8 g of powder boric acid, distributed over the ridges, dug up. A week later, mineral chemical fertilizers are applied and dug up again. Suitable for open ground.
2. Makuni method. Mix 2 liters of soil from the ridge, 2 liters of a special substrate for a particular crop that is being prepared for planting, 2 liters of sphagnum moss, 1 liter of river sand, 4 liters of peat, then add first 30 g of dolomite flour, then the same amount double superphosphate and two glasses of crushed charcoal, mix everything thoroughly. Suitable for preparing soil mixtures for indoor flowers or for growing crops in greenhouses and conservatories.

Table: compatibility of dolomite flour with various fertilizers

Fertilizers incompatible with limestone flour should be used no earlier than 10 days after the application of dolomite.

Video: dolomite flour in agriculture

Garden tricks for using fertilizer

1. If the soil on the site is clayey, dolomite is applied annually. In other cases, it is used once every three years.
2. It is better to apply fertilizer in the fall so that the soil rests and is saturated with all the useful elements.
3. In spring or early summer, plants can be watered with a mixture of water and dolomite flour (200 g per 10 liters of water).

Dolomite flour under the trees is brought along the perimeter of the near-stem circle

Analogs means for use in the garden

Dolomite flour is not the only tool that can be used to deoxidize the soil; it can be replaced with other compounds.

It is also successfully used to reduce the acidity of the soil. But here it is necessary to take into account the type of wood from which the ash was made, it is very difficult to calculate the required amount for deoxidation, especially over large areas. In any case, its consumption is several times higher than that of dolomite, therefore, the procedure is more expensive.

Wood ash is a costly soil deoxidizer

Lime (fluff). It is very active, quickly leads to neutralization of the soil, prevents crops from absorbing phosphorus and nitrogen sufficiently, so it is better to apply lime in the fall for digging. In no case should it be poured onto the plant - fluff causes leaf burns. AND an excess of slaked lime leads to serious damage to the roots.

Lime causes burns on leaves and roots of plants

Thanks to dolomite flour, you can get a safe, tasty, rich harvest. It's economical, but effective method enrich the soil of the garden plot with useful microelements, while there is no need to be afraid of damage to plants.

Dolomite is a carbonate rock, which is a complex of calcium and magnesium, and the so-called "dolomite flour" is crushed dolomite. This mineral is widely used in crop production. Knowing what dolomite flour is, how to use this product in the garden and how to apply it, you can significantly improve the condition of the soil and increase plant productivity.

Most Russian garden plots are located on acidic podzolic soils. Among garden crops, it is difficult to find acidophilic plants that prefer to grow on such soils.

The acid reaction of the environment negatively affects the development of plants:

• nitrogen is poorly absorbed, symptoms of nitrogen starvation are observed in plants: chlorosis, growth retardation, crushing of leaves and fruits, bud death;
• phosphorus passes into an indigestible form, the plants show symptoms of phosphorus starvation: general inhibition, death of leaves, deterioration or cessation of flowering and fruiting;
• useful soil flora is inhibited, pathogen activity increases, plants are severely affected by root rot and fungal infections.

At high level soil acidity (pH less than 5.5 units), it becomes mandatory to use a deoxidizer, which is dolomite flour. When transferred to the soil solution, calcium and magnesium carbonates neutralize acids and make the soil more suitable for crop production.

Speaking about why dolomite flour is needed in the garden, it is worth noting important role calcium in fertility. Analysis various types soil shows that the less this element contains the soil, the lower the fertility:

This dependence is explained by the fact that calcium ions help the formation of soil colloids, due to which porosity increases and soil structure improves.

What plants are useful?

Almost all horticultural crops will respond well to the introduction of dolomite flour.

It is especially useful when growing the following plants:

• all types of cabbage;
• radish, turnip, daikon;
• beets and chard;
• green crops: dill, parsley, celery, cilantro, salads, mustard;
• onion crops: onion, leek, slime, batun, shallot, chives, garlic;
• carrot;
• potatoes and eggplants;
• pepper;
• garden strawberry;
• pumpkin crops: cucumbers, zucchini, pumpkins, squash;
• gourds: watermelons and melons;
• legumes: peas, beans, beans.

Tomatoes are more tolerant of an increased pH level, but the addition of dolomite flour will also affect their yield favorably. Under acidophilic fruit and ornamental crops (blueberries, sorrel, cranberries, gooseberries, rhododendrons), the soil does not deoxidize.

How to use correctly?

Before using dolomite flour, it is necessary to determine the acidity and granulometric composition of the soil. The application rates directly depend on this:

If the pH of the soil is from 6.0 and above, it is not recommended to use dolomite flour.

Introduction of dolomite flour

Dolomite flour can be applied to the soil in four ways:

• Throughout the area. Based on the application rates, the flour is scattered over the surface of the site, after which the soil is dug up.
• In the garden or near the trunk circle. Based on the application rates, the flour is distributed over the prepared bed and embedded in the soil with a rake. Embedding in trunk circle produced by a flat cutter, after which the soil is mulched.
• Into the landing hole. When planting seedlings or when planting potatoes, 5 tablespoons of dolomite powder are poured into each hole, mixed with soil and planted.

To increase the effectiveness of dolomite flour, it is useful to apply it simultaneously with well-ripened compost, manure or leaf humus. It cannot be used simultaneously with mineral fertilizers. If this type of top dressing is preferred, deoxidizer and fertilizers are applied at intervals of at least 1 week.

Terms of application of fertilizer

Most often, dolomite flour is used in autumn or spring training soil. In autumn, this is done after harvesting, in spring - 2-3 weeks before sowing.

Dolomite powder can also be used in the summer. During this period it is more convenient to process perennial crops, embedding the agent in near-trunk circles.

The frequency of treatments depends on the properties of the soil. On heavy clays, dolomite flour is used every year. On medium and light soils - 1 time in 3-5 years.

The effect of feeding

The effect of adding dolomite flour does not appear immediately. The shift in acidity occurs in a few months, therefore, on highly acidic soils, it is more profitable to till the soil in the fall. Spring and summer applications are carried out on well-cultivated soils in order to maintain optimal acid-base balance.

The systematic and competent use of dolomite flour in the garden leads to the following results:

• a noticeable improvement in the physical and chemical characteristics of the soil;
• increased activity of beneficial soil flora;
• reducing the incidence of plant fungal and bacterial infections;
• reducing the damage of plants by soil pests;
• increase the power of the root system of plants, the formation of healthy even roots and tubers;
• overall increase in crop yields.

The maximum effect develops 2-3 years after the introduction of dolomite powder and the transition of calcium and magnesium into the soil solution.

What can replace dolomite flour?

In addition to dolomite flour, the following means are used to deoxidize the soil:

Thus, it is possible to replace dolomite flour on strongly acidic soils with either fluff lime or agromel. In areas with a slightly acidic soil reaction, it is more profitable to use wood ash.

Pros and cons of using

Like any other means, dolomite flour has its advantages and disadvantages:

• Advantages– ecological cleanliness and safety, positive effect on soil flora, high efficiency in deoxidation and increase in soil fertility, the possibility of application throughout the season.
• Flaw– gradual development of the effect.

Given the fact that dolomite flour has much more advantages than disadvantages, it can be considered an almost ideal tool for improving the soil. When using dolomite powder in accordance with the norms of application, no negative side effects not visible.

Dolomite has long become an indispensable tool on any personal plot. This is an excellent soil softener. In addition, dolomite flour saturates the earth with microelements, simplifies the fight against weeds, pests, plant diseases.

Description and characteristics

Dolomite flour is a substance in the form of a powder. It is produced from carbonate minerals. In particular, from dolomite - a material of crystalline structure, which can have a different color (from white to brown). Flour is prepared by crushing dolomite. Therefore, the deoxidizer looks like fine sand or powder.

Dolomite flour consists mainly of calcium and magnesium, which are lacking in acidic soils.

Note. The main reason for the increase in soil acidity is the intensive displacement of calcium from the once neutral soil by hydrogen ions.

Properties

Experienced gardeners use this tool not only as a fertilizer, but also to resist diseases of garden plants.

Often top dressing is applied to acidified soil that has become unsuitable for cultivation.

Crushed dolomite is important in the process of preparing for the garden season, as it improves the growth of garden crops, enriches the soil with microelements.

Calcium from dolomite stimulates the development of rhizomes, and magnesium improves the process of photosynthesis.

This dressing is useful for vegetable crops (beets, potatoes, onions, carrots), fruit trees, berries (cherries, plums, cherries). And also for some herbs and cereals.

A positive effect can be achieved by making both open areas, and in greenhouses, homemade greenhouses, indoor flower containers or pots.

It is irreplaceable on soils poor in magnesium, as well as on sandstones and sandy loamy soils.

Soil deoxidation

Before using dolomite, you should find out the degree of acidity of the soil. Otherwise, you can do more harm to plants than good.

To determine the pH, they rely on a 14-point scale. Based on the results obtained, three types of soils are distinguished:

• Alkaline - from 7.
• Neutral - 7.
• Sour - those up to 7.

In addition, soil composition is a significant factor. In particular, the predominant component: humus, clay or sand.

Accurately determine the level of soil acidity will help special devices, which are widely represented in retail gardening stores.

Benefit

• Normalizes acidity.
• Provides the soil with useful minerals.
• Improves physical, biological properties soil.
• Enhances the effect of other fertilizers.
• Enhances intercellular metabolism, accelerates photosynthesis.
• Preserves the harvest, improves its taste.
• Forms a powerful root system.
• Fights pests.

Harm

The negative effect of dolomite is often due to its incorrect use or neglect of the advice of knowledgeable gardeners.

• If the acidity level is 6, liming should be delayed a little. For now, it's not needed.
• Failure to comply with the dosage will lead to the death of plants, especially for the spring application of flour.
• Haste and the wrong combination with other fertilizers leads to disastrous results.

When to apply?

Inexperienced gardeners are concerned not only with the correct dosage of fertilizer, but also with recommendations for the time of application.

Dolomite deoxidizer is best applied in autumn. The optimal time is from August (after harvest) to October. It is advisable to do this before frost, otherwise the substance will not have time to give all its mineral elements to the earth.

On heavily acidified soils, it is also used in spring.

Often the flour is simply scattered on the site before digging.

Experienced gardeners advise not to delay the autumn application of dolomite. This will help the soil to fully prepare for the next garden season, and will not cause any harm to garden crops.

How to enter correctly?

Only after finding out the exact level of soil acidity is it planned to apply the powder. At the same time, not only acidity itself is taken into account, but also other factors: the mechanical composition of the soil, the specific place of application, and the potential connection with other top dressings.

Application rates

• For acidic lands (pH 3-4), 55 kilograms per hundred square meters will be required.
• For slightly acidic (from 4.4 to 5.3) - 50 kilograms for the same area.
• For soils with barely noticeable acidity (within 5.6), 30 kilograms per hundred square meters is enough.

Exact dosages are also calculated taking into account the structure of specific soils. For example, loams and alumina need more deoxidizer (it is increased by 20%). On light soils, on the contrary, the dosage is reduced by 1.5 times.

Before you buy dolomite flour, you need to calculate the required amount of fertilizer. Manufacturers of this top dressing offer various forms packages starting from 1 kg.

Note. On a plot of 6 acres, an average of 350 kg of dry top dressing is needed.

For different plants

Flour will benefit if you apply it:

• When preparing beds for planting vegetables: tomatoes and peppers, cabbage, potatoes and eggplant.
• To accelerate the growth of lettuce, barley, peas, beans, beans and cucumbers.
• In order to increase the yield of onions and garlic.
• When caring for stone trees.

Fertilizer is mandatory for application in areas with strongly or moderately acidic soil. It will save potatoes from scab disease, make up for the lack of starch. In addition, flour will help fight the main pest of potato beds - the Colorado potato beetle. To do this, top dressing is scattered over the area before digging.

He likes dolomite and garden strawberries. Top dressing based on it is introduced in the autumn, so as not to harm young seedlings during spring transplant. For its preparation, two large spoons of nitrophoska, 200 g of ash, 400 g of dolomite are mixed (the dosage is given for 1 sq. M.).

Cherries and plums will also appreciate top dressing. Under each plant contribute 2000 g of dry matter. But for apple trees, dolomite is practically not used. An exception is cases with very strong acidification of the soil. But even in this case, flour is added no more than once every 6 years.

A similar scheme is suitable for berry growers: crushed powder is used in the autumn, the dosage is up to 1000 g for each bush.

If a decision is made to introduce a deoxidizer in the garden, then the main thing is to scatter it as evenly as possible, not forgetting to then bury it in the ground (at least 10 cm deep). When it enters the soil immediately, the fertilizer begins to intensively release minerals.

Note. In case of leaving flour on arable land (without loosening and embedding into the ground), the action is delayed. this fertilizer. Until it is in the ground, it is useless to wait for the effect.

Compatibility

Good results can be achieved through the use of combined mixtures. Many gardeners combine dolomite flour with boric acid, compost, humus, copper sulfate. In view of the fact that this substance normalizes the level of acidity, they begin to actively multiply in the soil. earthworms. The latter not only contribute to loosening the soil, but also accelerate the rate of assimilation of organic matter.

However, it should be remembered that dolomite powder is not combined with saltpeter, urea, superphosphates. Also, fertilizer should not be applied along with fresh manure. The combination of these fertilizers causes a chemical reaction, accompanied by the release of substances harmful to plants.

Attention! If it is not possible to refuse to apply manure, then do it late autumn, and dolomite flour is embedded in the ground immediately after harvesting - no later than the end of August.

Basic Mistakes

Despite the outward simplicity of using dolomite flour, not all gardeners manage to do it right.

Among the most common mistakes:

• Failure to comply with the dosage of fertilizer. Despite the fact that everything is written in detail on the packaging with top dressing, not all gardeners follow the instructions. As a result, there is no longer any benefit from the introduction.
• Application of fertilizer in combination with manure and complex top dressing, which were mentioned above. It is absolutely impossible to do this.
• Dolomite flour will not appeal to those plants that live well on acidic soils. We are talking about cranberries and blueberries, sorrel and gooseberries.

Not all gardeners are ready to purchase a special device for determining the level of soil acidity in their area. Therefore, before using dolomite flour, they are guided by their own methods for determining the pH of the soil.

• By inspecting your property.

Sometimes it is enough to walk around the site to understand in which areas dolomite is required. Weeds are excellent clues in this matter. So, if woodlice have firmly settled on the beds, and not only during the rainy period, then the soil here is very acidic. The growth of loach or sparrow indicates more of a neutral or slightly alkaline pH. Slightly acidic soils like dandelions and chamomile, but quinoa and nettles prefer exceptionally fertile, neutral soil.

• With the help of infusion of blackcurrant leaves.

A few currant leaves are placed in a jar, poured hot water, insist, cool. To determine the acidity of the soil, take a handful of earth, pour it into this jar. Then mix, wait for settling and analyze. If the soil is acidic, the solution will acquire a reddish tint, if neutral - green, if slightly acidic - bluish.

• With 9% vinegar.

They take a handful of earth, water it acetic acid and are watching. If small bubbles appeared on it, it means that a reaction has begun. In such cases, it is concluded that there is alkali in the soil. If nothing is formed, the soil is acidic, therefore the vinegar did not react with it.

Conclusion

Proper use of dolomite flour helps to increase the yield of fruit and berry crops by 15-20%. In addition, the fertilizer has a prolonging property, that is, it works for several years. Therefore, it is not necessary to apply it annually.

Most of the crops grown in horticultural areas are sensitive to soil quality. You can regularly get abundant harvests only if the soil is neutral or slightly alkaline. Acidic soil is not suitable for agriculture, so acidity is neutralized before planting. The right remedy dolomite flour is for this, but there are some nuances in the use of fertilizer.

What is dolomite flour?

Dolomite flour is a dolomite mineral crushed to a powder state. Since it is very common in Russia, there are no problems with raw materials. The finished powder is slightly lustrous, its color varies from white to grayish, sometimes it can even be reddish or beige, depending on the raw material.

Dolomite contains high concentrations of calcium and magnesium carbonates, which effectively neutralize the acidity of the soil, which makes it useful for Agriculture. The same substances are present in dolomite flour not in pure form, but in the form of salts, which prevents the deposition of trace elements in grown vegetables, berries and fruits in excessive concentration.

Dolomite flour can be used as fertilizer. In the process of purely mechanical processing, no chemical additives are introduced, the product is used in its natural form. Therefore, such a fertilizer is completely safe for both the environment and human health.

The finer the grinding, the higher the quality of the fertilizer. That is what you need to focus on when buying it. Best for the garden is a product whose granules do not exceed 1 mm in diameter (similar to sea sand).

Please note that dolomite can be unfired and fired. The advantage of the second option is that the plantings will receive more magnesium.

Photo gallery: raw materials and mechanical processing product

Packages with dolomite flour are sold in stores

Mineral after crushing

Mineral in nature

Useful properties for the garden

Dolomite flour is an excellent fertilizer that helps to consistently get a crop, regardless of the quality of the soil.

But the benefits of this remedy are not limited to soil deoxidation. In addition to the fact that due to the increase in the concentration of calcium and magnesium in an easily digestible form, fertility increases and soil structure improves, the use of fertilizer has other positive effects:

1. On the garden plot, the number of weeds is reduced.
2. Microorganisms, bacteria and insects that live in the soil and are beneficial for plants are stimulated to reproduce.
3. The effect of other fertilizers applied for planting (chemical or natural) becomes more noticeable.
4. The number of pests is drastically reduced. Powder particles play the role of an abrasive, damaging the chitinous cover of beetles and soft tissues slugs. By the way, flour can not only be buried in the soil, but also sprinkled with trunks, branches, stems and leaves. It is absolutely safe for people and pets.
5. Fruits that receive less damage from pests are much better stored.
6. Plantings take root well, since the roots grow faster and become stronger in the presence of calcium. The plant better resists various infections (especially rot) and receives more nutrients from the soil.
7. Ecological cleanliness of grown vegetables, berries and fruits. Dolomite flour has a unique property to neutralize heavy metal salts deposited in the soil, even radionuclides.

Magnesium, which is part of the fertilizer, is needed for the formation of chlorophyll, without which photosynthesis is impossible.

When to contribute?

Dolomite flour can be applied to the soil at any time, as improving the quality and additional sanitation of the soil will never be superfluous.

Table: recommendations for making dolomite flour depending on the time of year

The nuances of applying and applying fertilizer

Dolomite flour will be useful to you only if the soil in the area is really acidic. In order not to waste your own time, effort and money, first find out if you need such fertilizer at all. To do this, there are special devices and litmus paper. But on garden plot the high measurement accuracy they provide is not needed. You can understand if the soil is acidic using time-tested folk remedies- vinegar essence and grape juice.

It should be immediately noted that with uncontrolled scattering of dolomite flour over the area, high yields should not be expected.

Processing of the entire area of ​​​​the site and open ground

If the entire area is cultivated, the procedure should be carried out every 6–9 years, depending on the level of soil acidity, the amount of mineral fertilizers applied and the intensity of precipitation. Flour is scattered over the site, leveled with a rake, and then the earth is dug up to a depth of at least one bayonet of a shovel.

Digging is necessary so that the fertilizer begins to act faster. Otherwise, you will have to wait for the rains, which, soaking into the soil, will deliver useful material by the address. By the way, rains wash out all fertilizers from the soil, including dolomite flour.

Burying dolomite flour into the ground will give a greater effect than fertilizer left on the surface.

Be prepared for the fact that the positive effect will not appear immediately. The composition of the soil will be the best in 2-3 years. Then the effect of dolomite flour will gradually begin to fade away. Due to energy consumption and high fertilizer consumption, this method of soil deoxidation is rarely used.

How to use dolomite flour in greenhouses?

There are no obstacles to the use of dolomite flour in greenhouses, greenhouses and greenhouses. On average, about 100 g is needed per 1 m². But, unlike open ground, having scattered fertilizer over the entire area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe beds, the earth is not dug up. Flour creates a thin film on the surface of the soil that retains moisture inside, preventing it from evaporating. Thus, upper layer the earth does not dry out.

Instructions for use for individual beds in the country

Another option is to treat specific beds where it is planned to plant crops that are sensitive to acidity, or the root zone of trees and shrubs. Dolomite flour is introduced into the holes during planting, into the beds when digging, or crumbles at the roots (then the soil must be well loosened). But there is actual question: how much dolomite flour is required?

If the soil on the beds is heavy (peaty, silty, clayey, loamy, aluminous), the corresponding rate is increased by about 15%. An annual application of dolomite flour is recommended.

For light sandy and sandy loamy soils in the beds, the rate is reduced by about a third. One procedure with an interval of 3-4 years is enough. In this case, much less fertilizer is consumed and the acid-base balance is maintained at the same level due to the regular intake of new portions of the necessary substances.

The amount of dolomite flour directly depends on the type of soil

The introduction of dolomite flour into neutral and alkaline soil is strongly discouraged. You can disturb the natural acid-base balance. An excess of calcium is a much more serious problem than a lack of this trace element.

Table: application rate of dolomite flour depending on the soil

Video: adding dolomite flour to beds and plantings

What crops need dolomite flour?

Different plants react to acidic soil in different ways. For some of them, increased acidity is very suitable. Therefore, before scattering dolomite flour on the beds, find out if such a fertilizer is needed for this crop.

Table: soil type and different crops

And a few more notes:

1. Crops that prefer moderately acidic and slightly acidic soils will respond to the introduction of dolomite flour with an increase in yield.
2. For plants that prefer alkaline soils, the product is applied to the root zone every autumn, the recommended dose is increased by 10-15% compared to the amount of fertilizer when planting. If you are planting a new tree or shrub, apply fertilizer to the hole. It will take about 0.1 kg per bush, a seedling of pome fruits (pears, apple trees) - 0.3 kg, a seedling of stone fruits - 0.5 kg.
3. If flour is necessary for vegetable and berry crops, it is placed in holes or furrows for seeds and planted immediately. This is especially true of beets and cabbage. The exception is tomatoes, potatoes and strawberries (fertilizer must be applied to the soil in advance, in autumn or early spring).
4. Dolomite flour increases the yield of any winter crops, such as onions and garlic. This tool is also needed for perennial flowers and ornamental plants.

Do not neglect the introduction of dolomite flour either when planting or during the growth of trees and shrubs

Compatibility with other fertilizers

Table: compatibility of dolomite flour with other fertilizers

1. J. Mitlider's method. For 1 kg of dolomite flour, 7–8 g of boric acid powder is taken. This mixture is scattered over the beds after harvest, then the soil is dug up. The norm for 1 p / m is 200 g if the soil is heavy or peaty, and half as much if the soil is light sandy. After 5–7 days, additional mineral fertilizers containing potassium, phosphorus, nitrogen. The bed is dug up again.
2. Method B. M. Makuni. The method is also suitable for open ground, but is more often used for greenhouses, greenhouses, indoor flowers and seedlings. Mix 2 liters of soil from the garden, special soil for the crop that is supposed to be grown, and sphagnum moss, 4 liters of peat, 1 liter of coarse river sand. Separately, add 30 g of dolomite flour and double superphosphate and two glasses of powdered charcoal. Everything is thoroughly mixed.

What can replace dolomite flour?

The function of deoxidizing the soil, in addition to dolomite flour, is performed by slaked lime And wood ash. But the first tool in comparison with them has a number of advantages.

Slaked lime costs a little less and can be purchased at any hardware store. But this is only calcium, and not in the form of carbonate, but as hydroxide. Such a chemical compound is 1.5–2 times more effective for neutralizing the increased acidity of the soil, and, accordingly, the consumption of the product also decreases. However, it acts too sharply and strongly. In the event of even a small overdose, crops are guaranteed to suffer - you will simply burn the roots.

Calcium hydroxide also neutralizes soil acidity

In addition, calcium hydroxide cannot be applied to the soil immediately before planting - it will prevent plants from absorbing the nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus contained in the soil or in fertilizers. Processing is possible only in the fall, when the crop is fully harvested, or at the very beginning of spring (in the southern regions, where the snow melts early).

Wood ash, like dolomite flour, does not pose any harm to the soil; application is allowed at any time. In addition to calcium, ash contains other substances necessary for the soil - magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and so on.

Wood ash is sold, but in small packages

But it is problematic to use ash to deoxidize a large garden plot. In free sale there are only packages of small volume. And since the consumption of ash per unit area exceeds the consumption of dolomite flour by about twice, most often the required amount is not found on the farm. Acquiring ash every year is quite expensive.

Dolomite flour is a tool that, when used properly, will allow you to consistently obtain high yields and preserve grown fruits for the winter. In addition, it is safe for people, animals and the natural environment.