GardenRx: Adding Sulfur to Your Soil
Add Sulfur to Lawns and Gardens
Adding sulfur to soil, lawns and garden to lower pH for healthy plant growth. Organic gardening practices reflect proven results, feed the soil, not the plant.
Adding sulfur to your soil can be an effective method to lower pH levels and create a more suitable growing environment for certain plants. If you’re interested in learning how to add sulfur to your soil, PBS-Tv’s GardenRx has got you covered.
Watch the above video and see how GardenRx host Loren Nancarrow uses kitchen matches for an easy solution to sulfur problems. But before you grab for the matches here is more important information to help you do the job correctly.
1. Determine the soil pH: It’s essential to know your soil’s pH level before adding sulfur. You can purchase a pH test kit from your local garden center or use a soil testing service to get accurate results.
2. Calculate the required amount of sulfur: Once you determine your current pH level, you need to calculate how much sulfur to add. For example, to lower the pH of sandy soil by one unit, you’ll need approximately 2.5 pounds of elemental sulfur per 100 square feet. For loam or clay soil, it would require around 1.2 pounds per 100 square feet.
3. Choose the right type of sulfur: There are two common types of sulfur available: elemental sulfur and sulfur compounds. Elemental sulfur is a less expensive option but takes longer to break down and release acidity. On the other hand, sulfur compounds like sulfuric acid work faster but should be handled with caution.
4. Prepare the soil: Before adding sulfur, loosen the top layer of the soil with a garden fork or tiller. This will help the sulfur mix in evenly and ensure better distribution.
5. Apply sulfur to the soil: Sprinkle the required amount of sulfur evenly over the desired area. It’s a good idea to apply it in a thin layer to avoid clumping. To improve the distribution, you can also mix the sulfur with compost or other organic matter.
6. Incorporate sulfur into the soil: Gently work the sulfur into the top 6 to8 inches of soil using a rake or garden fork. Be careful not to overwork the soil, as this can lead to compaction.
7. Water the soil: After incorporating the sulfur, water the soil thoroughly to help the sulfur dissolve and reach plant roots. Adequate moisture is crucial for the breakdown process.
8. Monitor pH levels: Test the soil’s pH periodically to ensure you’ve reached your desired level. Retesting should be done after a few months since it takes time for the sulfur to fully react with the soil.
Remember, it’s crucial to follow the recommended guidelines and not exceed the recommended amount of sulfur. Over-application can be harmful to plants and the soil ecosystem. If you have any concerns or specific questions about adding sulfur to your soil, consult with a local horticulturist or extension service for tailored advice.
By following these steps provided by PBS-Tv’s GardenRx, you can successfully add sulfur to your soil and create an optimal growing environment for your plants.