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Category: Soil Amendments & Fertilizers

Is Gypsum A Good Fertilizer?
Being a Gardner, there is a lot of work to be done when it comes to having a fruitful healthy garden. Fertilizing your plant is one good step to improving garden results, and there are various fertilizers you can use. So if you are wondering if gypsum will be a good fertilizer for your garden, we will let you know in this guide.
Certainly, Gypsum is a Good Fertilizer
Apart from other garden fertilizers, gypsum is a good fertilizing ingredient for the growth of your garden. Gypsum has been used as soil amendments as well as soil fertilizer for over 200 years. Gypsum is a great source of fertilizer that will improve the yield of your crops.
Benefits of Applying Gypsum as a Fertilizer
Gypsum is applied to the soil to improve soil conditions. Here are some benefits of applying gypsum as a fertilizer to your soil:
1.    A great Source of Calcium
Calcium is vital as it helps with plant growth, especially for roots and shoots support. Deficiency of calcium in your plant can cause weak stem, stagnant or dead buds, weak roots, dropping of flowers, and abnormal patches of fruit colors. Gypsum contains 21 percent calcium essential for your plant structure. Calcium provided by gypsum prevents end rot in tomato plants, watermelons, peanuts, and apples.
2.    More Efficient than Limestone
Gypsum is also preferably to limestone which some gardeners use as a calcium source. Limestone is not water-soluble like gypsum. Also, limestone might not get into the soil where it’s needed most. However, with water, gypsum will dissolve well into the soil and move quickly right where it’s needed.
3.    Does not Affect Soil pH
Gypsum does not have any effect on the pH of any soil. It is a natural mineral that neither adds nor removes minerals already existing in the soil.
4.    Excellent Source of Sulfur
Sulfur is a vital nutrient for protein synthesis in plants. Gypsum application ensures sulfur is provided to your soil. The sulfur in gypsum is readily available for immediate use. Unlike elemental sulfur which is unavailable to plants and requires soil bacteria to oxidize sulfur for availability.
5.    Amends Soil Compaction
Heavy clay soil is one big headache for farmers because of its tightly packed soil that can make work difficult. When gypsum is added to heavy clay soil, it will amend soil compaction and increase soil aeration. It will improve the soil structure increasing water porosity, nutrient penetration, and better root development.
6.    Amends Damages from Salt and Pet Urine
Coastal or arid areas where salt meets the melted snow during winter can cause damages to your garden crops or lawns. The good thing is adding gypsum to your soil will help neutralize the effect of this salt damages as well as repair them. Gypsum is also a good pet urine neutralizer.
Gypsum Application as a Fertilizer
Naturally occurring minerals are contained in gypsum which is vital for your crops to flourish. Be it vegetables, flowers, trees, shrubs, or turfs, gypsum application will work wonders on your garden or lawn. Gypsum is harmless, therefore, it’s safe for usage around humans, pets, and crops.
Gypsum comes in different forms such as granular, pelleted, and pulverized. The exact form of gypsum you may require will be based on the manner you decide to apply it to your garden or lawn.
Forms of Gypsum Fertilizer
Here are the various forms of gypsum:
- Pelleted Gypsum: Pelleted gypsum is fast-acting. They have low dust formula which is easy to work with any fertilizer spreader.
- Granular Gypsum: Granular gypsum is a slower release formula and low dust. Granular gypsum can be spread freely and easily and it works with any fertilizer spreader.
- Pulverized Gypsum: Pulverized gypsum is a perfect form of gypsum that will deliver extended-release. It performs better in broadcast or drop-style spreader device for powder.
Down to Earth Organic Garden Gypsum Calcium Sulfate
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The quantity of gypsum you will require for your garden or lawn will solely depend on how you intend to use it: it will also depend on the status and conditions of your soil. This is why we suggest you perform soil analysis to be sure that the application of gypsum is favorable to your plants.
For instance, if the compacted clay soil in your area is high, you will require a bigger level of gypsum to give you the desired outcome and vice versa.
Also, ensure you water deeply the gypsum into your soil right where the gypsum is needed.
FAQ’s
Should I use gypsum as a fertilizer?
Gypsum is an excellent fertilizer for most plants. It’s very rich in phosphorous, which is needed by all plants.
The only drawback is that gypsum tends to be somewhat acidic and may make your soil too acid for certain plants. This can be mitigated with the use of lime, which should be applied in conjunction with gypsum. In fact, gypsum and lime are often used together as a soil-conditioning mixture.
Gypsum is pretty inert.
Gypsum has been used for weed control for over a century and it works by creating a barrier to stop seedlings from emerging. It also discourages the growth of roots. You’ll find it used in many gardening books on how to control weeds in vegetable gardens. Gypsum is a common ingredient in fertilizers and if you do some research you’ll find that it’s used in many commercial fertilizers. I’ve been using it for years to control weeds in my garden and it really works well.
The only thing you need to watch out for when using it is that it can make the soil too dry, but that shouldn’t be a problem since it’s mainly used as a mulch.
Gypsum should be added to pots after you’ve watered them. If your soil is too wet you might want to add some dry material like vermiculite or perlite. These will help to dry out the soil and allow for more air circulation.
Can you put gypsum around plants?
Gypsum is a mineral. You can’t put it around plants, because it’s too heavy for them to support.
It can be sprayed on plants, but it is not a good insecticide.
Can you mix gypsum and fertilizer together?
Yes, it can cause problems. Mixing fertilizer and gypsum is not a good idea. It’s better to buy one or the other. Fertilizer alone does not have enough nutrients for the plants and gypsum is very slow to break down and release the nutrients. I think that you should use gypsum on your lawn first. You can use fertilizer as a top dressing after it has been applied to the lawn.
What are the benefits?
The benefits of using gypsum to improve your garden are numerous. It is inexpensive, easy to use, and has many other uses. It improves soil structure Gypsum adds strength to soil by creating a strong surface layer. This prevents water from soaking into the soil too deeply. In addition, the water that does get into the soil is more evenly distributed, which helps prevent erosion. This makes it easier for plants to absorb nutrients and water, making them grow healthier. It eliminates salt build-up When you apply gypsum to your soil, it will absorb any excess salt that is present in the soil.
Conclusion
With the above information, it’s safe to conclude that gypsum is a good fertilizer for your vegetables, trees, shrubs, flowers, and turfs. Gypsum is a harmless fertilizer and it will supply your plants with some beneficial nutrients to make your plant grow healthy.
November 16, 2020
Gypsum For Lawns
Gypsum application is a great idea if you want to improve your lawn’s health. For this reason, choosing the most appropriate gypsum for your lawn is fundamental.
When you apply gypsum to your lawn, it will rectify most of your lawn problems. It will bring your lawn back to life and improve your turf’s growth.
We will discuss more of why gypsum is needed for your lawn, some of its benefits, and recommend some gypsum you can apply to your lawn.
Why You Need Gypsum for Your Lawns
If you are particular about giving your lawn that beautiful green look, you will need gypsum.
You need gypsum for your lawn, especially during the winter months. When the cold, snowy winter approaches and your area is salty (especially coastal and arid regions), salt tends to gather up near the melted ice, giving your turf unpleasant patches, which can damage your lawn.
However, applying gypsum to your lawn will help it survive winter and emerge from it flourishing.
Gypsum will control this salt by making it leach away into the subsoil. The salt will be leached below the roots of your lawn. Therefore, the root of your lawn remains harmless.
With gypsum application, much water will be needed to help the leaching process.
Gypsum not only removes excess salt, but it also replaces salt with calcium in the soil. As such, there will be a great deal of improvement in the soil structure of your lawn.
What is Gypsum
Gypsum is a naturally occurring mineral of calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO₄·2H₂O). Due to its beneficial properties, it’s widely used in construction, agriculture, and various industries.
Common Uses of Gypsum:
1. Construction: Gypsum is a key component of drywall or plasterboard, often called sheetrock. It’s also used in plaster and cement to control setting times.
2. Soil Amendment: In agriculture, gypsum improves soil structure and drainage. It helps to break up compacted soil, especially in clay-heavy soils and provides essential nutrients like calcium and sulfur.
3. Gardening: Gardeners often use gypsum to improve soil quality, reduce compaction, and prevent salt buildup, particularly in regions with hard or saline soils.
4. Industrial Applications: It’s used as an additive in the production of fertilizers, ceramics, and even some food processing.
Gypsum is valued for its versatility, making it applicable across various fields.
Benefits of Applying Gypsum to Your Lawns
There are other benefits you get to enjoy using gypsum for your lawns. Just take a look at some benefits of feeding your lawn with gypsum:
- Reduces Coil Compaction: if the soil in your area is compact, especially clay soil, gypsum will greatly help the soil. Gypsum will help diminish the compaction of soil, which in turn opens up the pours in your soil. This helps increase the condition of soil aeration in your lawn. Now, your lawn will enjoy that full, thick, beautiful turf look!
- Neutralizer for Pet Urine: most homeowners with pets suffer from pets urinating on their lawns. Pet urine is not healthy for your lawn. It can cause yellow patches on your lawn, and they may not recover, making it unpleasant to the eyes. The good news is gypsum can serve as a neutralizer for pet urine, solving the problem of yellow spotting on your lawn. It is a harmless neutralizer and safe for humans, pets, turf, soil, and plants.
Recommended Gypsum For Your Lawns
Below are some recommended gypsum for your lawns:
Gypsum Powder – Purest and Soluble Houseplant Food Fertilizer
We suggest Gypsum Powder from Supply Solutions gypsum soil conditioner as one of the gypsums you can apply to your lawn as it is a great valued product in comparison to cometitors. It serves as a good neutralizer from pets’ urine, which can burn your lawn. Gypsum Powder from Supply Solutions soil conditioner will also neutralize burns caused by salt spread in melted ice.
Another advantage of the Epsoma gypsum soil conditioner is that it helps breaks up those compact heavy and clay soils. With this, the soil in your lawn will thrive better with good air circulation.
Pros
- Neutralizer for pet urine.
- Improves heavy clay soils rapidly.
Cons
- If enough water is not added to leach away salt, the product might not work well.
Amazon Choice Selection
Gypsum Powder – Purest and Soluble Houseplant Food Fertilizer
$52.53

For Indoor Plants, Outdoor, Lawn, Vegetables – Indoor Plant Nutrients, Improve Plant Growth (50 P…

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02/05/2026 12:04 pm GMT
The Andersons NutraSoft OP Pelletized Gypsum
The Andersons NutrSoft OP Pelletized gypsum will benefit your lawn and work very fast! It will help break up those thick soils, making the turf’s roots easier to work through and receiving more air circulation.
The Pennington gypsum will work wonders on your lawn, making them grow green and healthy.
Pros
- Quickly disperses and dissolves into the soil after irrigation
- Faster and more effective than traditional gypsum products
Cons
- None that we could find yet.
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The Andersons NutraSoft OP Pelletized Gypsum
$33.28

6,600 sq ft 40 lb Bag

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02/05/2026 01:04 pm GMT
Earth Science Fast Acting Gypsum
Earth Science Gypsum is a type of pelleted gypsum that will boost the growth of your lawn, make your turf green and attractive, and help repair salt-damaged soils from pets or roads.
It will also help loosen and improve tightly packed heavy and clay soil. Your soil becomes well-aerated, and it is easier for the roots to work through during gypsum application.
Pros
- Neutralizes salt de-icing from winter.
- Loosens clay and compact soils to promote growth.
- Safe for Pets and Children
Cons
- Lots of water is needed for the leaching process.
Earth Science Fast Acting Gypsum
$21.95

Soil Conditioner Adds Calcium, Repairs Salt Damage & Root Growth with Nutri-Bond Runoff R…

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02/05/2026 12:05 pm GMT
How do you apply gypsum to your lawn?
Applying gypsum to a lawn is a simple way to improve soil quality, particularly in clay or compacted soils, and to add essential nutrients like calcium and sulfur. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply gypsum to your lawn:
Step 1: Test Your Soil
Before applying gypsum, it’s important to test your soil to determine whether it needs it. A soil test can reveal whether your soil has a calcium deficiency or high sodium content, both of which gypsum can help correct.
Garden Tutor Soil pH Test Kit (3.5-9 Range) | 100 Soil pH Tester Strips – Test Soil Acidity and Alkalinity of Garden Lawn Grass Flower Vegetable Compost Indoor and Outdoor Plants
$12.98

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02/05/2026 12:04 pm GMT
Step 2: Choose the Right Type of Gypsum
Gypsum comes in various forms, including:
- Powdered: Easy to spread but can be dusty.
- Granular or Pelleted: Easier to handle and spread, especially for large lawns.
Step 3: Calculate the Application Rate
For most lawns, apply gypsum at 20 to 50 pounds per 1,000 square feet. Check the packaging for specific recommendations for your lawn’s needs, as the rate may vary based on soil conditions.
Step 4: Spread the Gypsum
- Manual Spreading: Use a handheld or broadcast spreader to distribute the gypsum evenly.
- Mechanical Spreader: A mechanical spreader will make the task easier and ensure even coverage for larger areas.
Step 5: Water the Lawn
After spreading gypsum, water the lawn thoroughly to help the gypsum penetrate the soil. This also activates the gypsum, allowing it to start improving soil structure and supplying nutrients.
Step 6: Reapply if Needed
You may need to reapply gypsum once or twice a year for heavily compacted soils. Regular applications can help prevent soil compaction and improve overall lawn health.
By following these steps, you’ll enhance soil structure and promote a healthier, more vibrant lawn.
By now, you should know why applying gypsum to your lawns is a great thing to do! You can apply gypsum to your lawn at any period of the year. However, you should read instructions to know the best application time that will suit your lawn. You can apply gypsum to your lawn two or three times a year.

FAQ

What does it help with when you apply gypsum to a lawn?
Gypsum is used for a number of purposes, in this case it would be applied to the top layer of soil to raise it’s water holding capacity and improve its aeration. It may also be applied to lawns with clay soils to provide a base for grass seed to establish itself. This can be done as an overlay or through injection. The injectable forms are preferred because they’re more likely to penetrate the soil and allow the grass to establish itself.
Gypsum is used in a number of ways to improve the appearance and health of lawns, shrubs, trees, and other plants. Gypsum’s major benefit comes from its ability to absorb and hold water, helping to keep your soil and surrounding environment moist.
It stops weeds, keeps the grass from drying out.
Gypsum is the active ingredient in many “weed-and-feed” products. You spread it on the lawn, and it helps prevent weed seeds from germinating. It’s also very good at getting rid of existing weeds. I’ve used it several times on my lawn, and I like how it works. It’s not toxic, and it doesn’t harm your lawn or the environment.
I think the idea is to apply it in the fall before a winter freeze. Then it will hold moisture better and protect the grass from freezing.
When should I apply gypsum to my lawn?
I use it at the beginning of the growing season and then again when it gets hot. My lawn is very thick so I don’t think it will be a problem. It does get compacted a little bit but I just rake it back down. I like it because I can see where I’m applying it and I don’t need to water it as often. I use gypsum at the beginning of the season and then apply a couple of weeks later.
Will it hurt my plants?
No. It can actually be beneficial to your plants, but some types of plants do not like gypsum and will not tolerate it.
Where is the best place in the lawn to add gypsum?
The best place for gypsum is where the lawn has lots of grass, as the salt in the gypsum will encourage the grass to grow. That will also improve the look of your lawn, and save you money on fertilizer.
November 15, 2020
A Step By Step Guide On How To Sterilize Potting Soil
Those who enjoy gardening and growing indoor plants need to learn how to sterilize potting soil to destroy all the bugs and pathogens.
Sterilized and clean soil will do a lot of good for your plants. Using the same potting soil repeatedly can lead to a buildup of fungal spores, weed seeds, harmful pathogens, and garden pests. If you opt to reuse the same soil instead of replenishing it, it would be best to sterilize it often. This leaves you with clean uncontaminated growing soil for your plants.
Why Should You Sterilize Potting Soil?
Sterilizing potting soil is very important! Soil contains harmful bacteria, pathogens, and fungi that harms or kills the plants. Insects and larvae may also be present causing harm to plants. Store-bought soil that claims to be sterilized cannot be trusted. It may be contaminated through bag punctures, mishandling, shelf life, or other elements.
How to Sterilize Potting Soil
Sterilizing your potting soil is easy and beneficial to plants. You only need a few household items and about 45 minutes to complete the process.
Materials Required
- Large roasting pan or a baking sheet
- Oven
- Aluminum foil
- Meat thermometer
- Mixing spoon
- Fertile soil
- Water
Black Gold 1311002 8-Quart Seedling Mix
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Read more about Gypsum Soil Amendment
Steps to Follow when Sterilizing Potting Soil
- Prepare your soil for sterilization. The soil must be moist enough to be able to compact into a ball. But it should crumble when pressure is removed. This is done by packing a ball of soil between your hands and adding a little water. Mix until you get the right consistency.
- Place the soil into the roasting pan or baking sheet. Evenly distribute it in the pan and break any soil lumps available. Keep the soil under 4 inches deep and do not fill the edges of the pan. Cover the pan or sheet tightly with a foil. The foil must be tight and secure to prevent moisture loss and the soil burns. Make a hole in the center of the foil large enough for the meat thermometer to fit in through it.
- Start the sterilization process. Set the oven at a low temperature and Place the tray inside. The temperature for sterilization should be 180 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures above this may cause burning. Burning the soil changes the chemical composition of the soil. The burnt soil will cause harm to plants. Allow the soil to burn for about 30 minutes at a steady temperature. You must pay close attention to temperature fluctuation to avoid using too high or too low heat.
- Cool your use before using it. After baking for 30 minutes, remove the soil from the oven and let it sit until it reaches room temperature. To allow heat to escape, carefully lift the corner of the foil. Be very careful as you do this as the escaping steam will be very hot and can cause burns.
- Use your soil. Once the soil has cooled down and removed from the pan, go ahead and place it in the pot. Remember to sterilize your growing pots too so that they do not infect the new soil. Plant your seeds no deeper than 4 times the diameter of the seed. Water the sterilized soil with a mister to avoid flooding it. Place the soil and the sown seeds into a cool room, avoid direct sunlight until germination.
Conclusion
Sterilizing potting soil indoors will bring a repulsive odor that is awful and smells earthy. Some people can tolerate it while others cannot and might be allergic to the odor. Before sterilizing your soil, open your windows and turn on a fan. The odor will not linger for long if the indoor air is circulating with the outdoor fresh air.
FAQs
What shouldn’t use to sterilize soil?
I’ve tried bleach, I used a little bleach to clean up some moldy soil (which had been sitting in a bag for a long time) and then put it in my garden, and it seemed fine. I used one cup of bleach in three gallons of water. It smelled like rotten eggs for a couple days and I had to throw out all of my plants. I would never use bleach again.
I’ve tried soaking it in ammonia, but it didn’t do much. But I don’t think it’s necessary or recommended.
What does work?
The easiest way to sterilize soil is to use a heat gun. This is actually a form of pasteurization, which is much faster than using steam or steam heat. The pasteurization process takes about 3 minutes to achieve a kill of all bacteria, while it would take days for a slow-acting sterilant like ethylene oxide to kill all of them. So, you can kill 99% of the bacteria in 3 minutes. It can be used to kill all kinds of bacteria and fungi. You can also use chemicals, which are usually toxic and will kill the organisms that you want to keep. The most common chemicals for this are chlorinated hydrocarbons. They have a low toxicity and are easy to use. A third option is to use physical methods such as digging up the soil and moving it to another location. Rubbing alcohol can be used as a disinfectant and also as a solvent to get rid of stubborn soil-based disease. Make sure you do not use it in any area with soil that has been previously treated with a fungicide, as it will react with the active ingredient and make the soil unusable. Hydrogen peroxide is another option. A better option would be to use an autoclave, which is a pressurized chamber that kills bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogens.
Why sterilize soil?
Soil contains living organisms.
These organisms include bacteria, fungi, mites, nematodes, protozoa, and viruses. The presence of these organisms in soil is often considered undesirable. For instance, bacteria can cause disease or spoilage in food products.
What’s the kind of mold that I should be worried about?
I’m not sure if you’re aware, but there are two types of mold: “black” and “white”. Black mold is toxic and may cause illness. White mold is not. You can easily tell the difference by looking at the mold, it will be white for “healthy” mold. If the mold is black, it’s probably toxic and you should throw it away.
October 27, 2020
What Is Coconut Coir & Recommended Products
In the past decade, high-quality horticultural coconut coir has become popular as a growing medium for greenhouses and hydroponics farmers.
If you love gardening or hydroponics, now is the time to consider using coco coir for your plants. The correct pronunciation or coir is coy-er according to the Cambridge dictionary.
What Is Coconut Coir?
Coir is the fibrous husk and dust that make up the outer layer of a ripe coconut. This part is least seen as it is removed before the fruits arrive in the market. But it is available as a soilless growing medium.
Coconut coir is common in India and Sri Lanka. These are areas where the Cocos Nucifera coconut palm grows in plenty. The growing medium can either work alone or mixed with another material. This material is perlite.
Why Use Coconut Coir?
In hydroponics and pot gardening, coir is a substitute for peat moss. It is a renewable resource with a more neutral pH. It helps manage the nutrients in the hydroponics systems. Coir decomposes slower than peat moss releasing its nutrients in a slow economic way. This is one of the greatest benefits of using coir in hydroponics because the nutrient solution has a huge impact on growing success.
Types Of Coco Coir
Every time you buy coconut coir, you are buying three types mixed – the fiber, pith, and coco chips. These three together provide a powerful growing medium very healthy to plant growth.
1. Coco pith or coco peat is the fine ground coconut or pear moss. It’s absorbent and fine with small particles. It must age well before it goes to the farm.
2. Coco fiber is not very absorbent and adds air pockets into the growing medium. These air pockets provide oxygen to the root zone. This fiber breaks down fast with the air pockets decreasing over time.
3. Coco chips are a hybrid between the coco fiber and coco peat. They are large pieces that create air pockets and absorb the water well. It helps keep your plants well hydrated.
The coconut coir must be a mixture of these three types to achieve the best results.
Find more information about How To Use Coconut Coir In Gardening
Where To Buy Coco Coir- Recommended Products
Here are a few of the best-recommended products.
CANNA Coco Brick
CANNA is one of the top coconut coir providers. This company monitors the production of their coir to ensure it is well dried, aged, and flushed of all salts. They package their coir in 40L expandable bricks. You will have to rehydrate the medium after receiving it.
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FOXFARM FX14100 Coco Loco
Fox is also a top coir provider. Just like CANNA they track their product to ensure it is well dried, flushed out salts, and aged before packaging it. FOXFARM packages their product in a 2 cu ft. expanded bag.
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General Hydroponics COCOTEK Coco Growing Media
COCOTEK consists of all three types of compressed media. It has low levels of sodium and one of the best for first-time growers. This is a cheaper option compared to CANNA and FOX FARM. It is packaged in 5kgs with a decent mix of coco fibers and pith.
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FAQs
What is coconut coir good for?
Coconut coir, also known as coco coir, is a natural material that can be used in a variety of ways. It is made up of the fibres of coconut shells and is used in many different industries, including in agriculture, horticulture, and forestry. For example, coconut coir is used as a soil amendment to improve soil structure and nutrient levels. This helps to create fertile soil and increases crop yield.
It’s a natural and organic alternative to plastic mulch, which can be harmful to both plants and animals. Coconut coir is made from the stalks of the coconut palm tree. It’s a renewable resource that is naturally occurring in tropical climates.
The production of coconut coir is highly labour intensive, as the coconut fibres need to be removed from the coconut shell before they can be processed into coconut coir. The majority of coconut coir is produced in India and Indonesia. In recent years, production has increased significantly, with India alone producing about 80,000 tonnes of coconut coir per year. Coconut coir is primarily used in agricultural applications such as soil amendment and organic fertiliser. It is also used in horticultural applications such as garden mulch, ornamental plant pots, and as a growing medium for houseplants. It is also used in forestry applications such as tree planting, and it is commonly known as coconut fibre or coco fibre. Coconut coir benefits The benefits of coconut coir are numerous. Nutrients Coconut coir is an excellent source of potassium, magnesium, phosphorous, and calcium.
How is it used?
The stalks are cut, dried and shredded into fine pieces. The shredded coconut is then mixed with water to create a thick, clay-like mixture. This mixture is then spread over the ground as mulch to help with soil building, prevent weeds and retain moisture.
Why Is Coconut Coir So Great?
It is considered to be a highly efficient organic growing medium, which improves soil quality and reduces the need for chemicals. The fibres have many beneficial uses in horticulture, including as a mulch and for growing houseplants.
The main benefits of using coconut coir for plants include:
improving soil structure, reducing disease, improving water retention, reducing weed growth, reducing the need for chemical fertilisers, enhancing the appearance of plants, increased yields and pest control.
Coconut coir can be used to make a wide range of different products and there are many ways to use it. It is a very versatile material, so you can easily adapt its uses for whatever purpose you wish.
Are there different types of coconut coir?
Coconut coir is actually a byproduct of coconut oil processing. It’s similar to chaff or straw, and can be used as mulch or composted.
There are many different types of coconut coir, and most of them are made from the husks of mature coconuts. Coconut husk is a material that has been used for centuries in making a variety of products.

Conclusion
Whether you choose to use this media in hydroponic or in containers, by itself or mixed with other media, the coconut coir works magic. It plays a key role in providing an ideal growing environment for your plants.
October 27, 2020
Is Purely Organic Lawn Food The Best Lawn Fertilizer?
Many homeowners are frustrated by unsatisfactory results from substandard lawn food products and many wonder leave if purely organic lawn food does work.
Ask every homeowner and they will tell you the lawn is as important as any other parts of the home. Everyone dreams of a fuller, greener lawn! This is made possible by feeding fertilizers that can help you maintain your lawn with ease.
Purely organic lawn food is made up of all-natural ingredients that don’t contain any harmful chemicals. There are many great organic fertilizers in the market today. To find the right one, you first need to understand how they work and what kind of results to expect.
Why Use Purely Organic Lawn Food?
Let’s be clear, organic fertilizer has a lot of benefits for both you and your home. Let’s unmask these benefits:
- Adds organic matter to the soil
- Naturally increases the nutrient exchange
- Helps the soil maintain better moisture levels and attract a bigger earthworm population
- Lasts long in the soil, therefore, no need to keep adding more
- Allows plants to get everything they need without being over-stimulated
- Releases nutrients slowly at a pace that makes your grass grow slowly
- Gives you breaks from mowing often
- They do not contain any dangerous chemicals
Which Works Better Between Purely Organic Lawn Food And Chemical Lawn Fertilizers?
First, understand that both organic and chemical lawn fertilizers give you results. How do you determine what works best for your lawn? Here are a few ways to tell the differences:
- Application – Organic fertilizers come in pellet form. The application is easy but can take a while. Applying too much organic fertilizer does not harm your plants. Chemical fertilizers come in liquid form and are easy to apply. Too much of it burns your lawns causing brown spots.
- Nutrients – Organic fertilizers have all nutrients that your lawn needs. They also contain a lot of macronutrients that your soil needs. Chemical fertilizers have exact amounts of essential nutrients with most macronutrients missing.
- Nutrient release. An organic fertilizer releases its nutrients at a rate that plants can absorb. Because of this advantage, it requires fewer applications. Chemical fertilizers offer a short-term solution providing a quick burst of nutrients. The quick burst of nutrients makes the grass grow fast requiring mowing regularly.
- Soil quality. Organic fertilizer is better for soil. It provides natural microorganisms and bacteria that help create a well-balanced eco-system for plant growth. Chemical fertilizers don’t add anything beneficial to the soil, they actually decrease fertility.
An In-depth Review Of Purely Organic Lawn Food
Purely organic lawn food is made using organic ingredients like distillers grains and soy. It is safe to use and delivers outstanding results. It is formulated to provide the nutrients that the lawn needs to become lush and green. All over the country, customers swear by this organic lawn food due to its potency.
This fertilizer contains non-synthetic phosphorous with a 10-0-2 parts composition. Its entire formula consists of natural nutrients required for the healthy growth and maintenance of grass.
Purely organic lawn foods have been used for a long time to maintain sports fields and keep them lush. The results have been satisfying! This fertilizer keeps grass thick and green throughout the year without any traces of scorch.
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Application
It has antimicrobial properties that foster the overall health of gardens and yards. The manufacturer recommends four applications in any given season for better results. The application process of purely organic lawn food.
There are two ways on how to carry out the application process. You can either choose the traditional way or use your hands to spread the fertilizer on the lawn.
Using your hands – this method is tedious especially when dealing with large yards. It also results in the uneven distribution of the fertilizer. This leads to strange growth patterns due to uneven distribution.
Using the traditional method means you use a spreader. You can either use a rotary or a dropped tool. Using a spreader saves time and gives you an even distribution of the fertilizer. You might need a specific purely organic lawn food distributor. It is possible to find recommendations from the manufacturer’s website.
A 25-pound bag can cover up to 5,000 square feet of turf making it quite cheap. Be sure to water your lawn as soon as you apply the fertilizer. It is essential to ensure the yard stays moist always four days after application. This enhances the proper infiltration of the fertilizer into the soil. It also boosts the root growth and development of the grass.
Read more about Is Nitrogen Organic Or Inorganic? – A Deeper Look
Is Purely Organic Lawn Fertilizer Safe for Humans?
Yes, purely organic lawn food is safe for humans and pets! This is because the product contains natural ingredients only. It does not harm you or your pets when you come into contact with it. It does not carry a burning effect thus the application is possible as many times as possible without harming the grass. But, it should not be consumed and should be kept away from children and pets.
The Pros and Cons of Using Purely Organic Fertilizer
Let us look at the advantages and disadvantages of using this organic product
Pros
- It is very economical
- Does not scorch the grass
- It is affordable yet effective compared to other natural fertilizers
- Contains 100% non-synthetic phosphorous
- Has a pleasant odor thanks to 0% manure content
- Does not have a limited number of applications or seasons
- Family and pet friendly
- Meets the municipality restrictions on Phosphate use
Cons
- Its packaging is quite bulky at 25 pounds
Purely Organic Lawn Food Vs Other Natural Fertilizers
It is important to compare this product with other organic products and see the differences. That way you make an informed decision when choosing your product. Below is a comparison of the purely organic lawn food against well-known brands:
Safer Brand Lawn Restore
This natural food covers 5000 square feet of lawn. It is safe for use with humans and pets, and you can walk on it immediately after application.
It contains a natural mixture of natural ingredients safe for children and pets. This product has an NPK of 9-0-2, and you can use it during any season. It should not dry on its own but needs water immediately after application. Do not mow the lawns for two weeks following the application. This fertilizer is best applied to freshly cut grass.
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Safer Brand Lawn Restore Natural Lawn Fertilizer
$34.49

Non-Burning Fertilizer – 9-0-2 NPK – Covers up to 5,000 Sq Ft

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02/05/2026 02:03 pm GMT
This product though safe around children and pets.
Most users highly recommend this lawn food, but others reject it for its bad smell, like that of chicken poop. If you can put up with the smell, then you can go ahead and use it.
Pros
- Is safe for children and pets
- Contains natural ingredients
- Suitable for any grass type
- Is not limited to the time of the year it can be applied
- No country restriction
Cons
- Contains unpleasant smell during application and watering
Dr. Earth High Nitrogen All Purpose Fertilizer 5-0-2
This lawn fertilizer will cover an area of around 4400 square feet. It has an NPK ration of 9-0-5. It contains natural ingredients that include fish meal, kelp flour, and alfalfa meal. Dr. Earth also contains beneficial soil microbes and mycorrhizae. This is a soil fungus known for improving plant root systems.
This fertilizer is safe for humans and pets and can be used as an all-purpose fertilizer. The application can happen at any time of the year and offers long-term improvements. It has a fishy smell that lingers for a while after application.
Dr. Earth High Nitrogen All Purpose Fertilizer 5-0-2
$48.77

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02/05/2026 03:02 pm GMT
Pros
- Suitable for application all year round
- Safe for children and pets
- Contains natural ingredients
Cons
- Contains animal derivatives, it could be unsuitable for vegans
- It has a fish odor which is not attractive to users
Espoma ELF 20 20 Pound Organic All season lawn food
This organic fertilizer has an NPK ration of 18-0-3. It has very high levels of Nitrogen that improves the green growth of plants. It is an all-natural fertilizer safe for children and pets. The ingredients include feather meal and poultry manure.
It contains extra Iron which helps the lawn achieve a deeper green color. The results are noticeable a few days after application with long-lasting results. The biggest complaint about this lawn fertilizer is the fact that it has a distinctive foul odor. Because it is primarily made from chicken manure, the smell is expected. Some users find the smell unbearable while others accept it.
Espoma Lawn Food for All Seasons. Rich in Natural Organics 15-0-5
$45.15

20 lbs. covers up to 6,000 square feet. Bio-tone formula with Slow Release Nitrogen and Non-Stain…

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02/05/2026 01:04 pm GMT
Pros
- Made from natural ingredients
- Safe for children and pets
- Suitable for use all year round
Cons
- Carries a bad smell of chicken manure that lingers for a while
FAQ’s
Is Purely organic lawn food the safest?
Yes.
Purely organic lawn food, or POOL, is a very effective, natural and healthy lawn fertilizer. It contains all the nutrients your grass needs to grow and be healthy. When it comes to organic lawn food, there are two main types: POOL that is only organic and does not contain any synthetic fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides POOL that is both organic and non-toxic to pets and wildlife.
Purely organic lawn food is the most complete organic lawn feed available. Purely organic lawn food contains all the nutrients and minerals your lawn needs to grow healthy.
Conclusion
The safety and natural state of this purely organic lawn food are what make it a favorite among the many customers who use it. There is no denying it has gained an overwhelming victory for its outstanding good effects. You can choose to taste the goodness by using it to nourish your lawn.
October 4, 2020
Best Mycorrhizal Products In The Market Today
Undoubtedly, the best mycorrhizal products play an important role in plant growth-enhancing the roots, which are a major part of plant development. These fungi help enhance the soil! Which in return provides the roots with better access to air (oxygen) and water.
Mycorrhizal fungi are common in all types of soil where plants grow. They grow a large root network throughout the soil and associate with the root system to create a greater association with plants.
Mycorrhizal fungi do not plant roots. They behave similarly to plant roots. Like roots, they burrow into the soil to collect nutrients and water for the plants. To sustain the fungi, the plants’ leaves send sugars to them as food.
Given that this excellent association is natural adding more mycorrhizal fungi to the soil is essential. These beneficial fungi occur naturally in the soil, but you must introduce them to the seedlings in the hydroponic systems or starter plugs.
Types of the Best Mycorrhizal Products
There are two groups of mycorrhizal fungi – ectomycorrhizal and endomycorrhizal fungi.
The Ectomycorrhizal Fungus
This fungus develops on the exterior of the root cells. Ectomycorrhizae are found in natural environments, mainly in trees or forest ecosystems. They form visible reproductive mushroom-like structures at the feet of the trees they inhabit. This fungus grows between root cells without penetrating them. It is symbiotic with spruces, pines, and most hardwood trees like oak, willow, and beech.
The Endomycorrhizal Fungus
This fungus penetrates plant cells where direct metabolic exchanges occur. It colonizes shrubs and most herbaceous plants without forming visible structures. In the endomycorrhizal fungi class, arbuscular mycorrhizal is the most prevalent in soils. Its name comes from the structures it forms in the plant root cell: the arbuscular. Arbuscules are finely branched root structures. They form within a cell and serve as a metabolic exchange between the fungus and the plant.
Other types of mycorrhizal fungi only exist in nature and are given to specific families of plants. These types are unavailable in commercial products; you can only get them in nature. They include the Orchids, Ericoid, and Arbutoid (the ericaceous family).
Read more about How to make a homemade Root Hormone
Benefits of Using the Best Mycorrhizal Products
- Encourages vigorous root development
- Produces healthy plants
- Increases plant establishment rate during transplanting
- Reduces transplanting shock
- Enhances flowering and fruiting
- Improves yields and crop quality
- It helps maintain soil quality and nutrient cycling
- Increases the soil’s tolerance to salinity
- Reduce disease occurrence
Best Mycorrhizal Products in the Market Today
Now that we have understood some facts about fungi, let’s check out some of the best products on the market.
Xtreme Gardening, Mykos Pure Mycorrhizal Inoculant
Mykos mycorrhizal is an organic and natural fungus. It creates a sponge-like mass highly beneficial to the soil. It helps it collect and store water and nutrients while increasing both intakes. This fungus is a species of the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi class.
Mykos is a fast-growing beneficial fungus that does not contain any other microbes like the ectomycorrhizae of Trichoderma. This fungus breaks down, cycles, and retains nutrients. It also provides a front-line defense against ecological stresses. Once administered, Mykos will continue to grow and become an extension of the roots. It does this while administering better sustainability and efficiency. The larger and healthier the root system, the more yields the plants produce.
Pros
- It helps new plants absorb transplanting shock
- Stimulates new root growth
- Increases root mass, resulting in more nutrients and moisture absorption
- Transports nutrients over large distances and delivers them directly into the root cell
- Protects your plants from heat stress and drought
- It keeps harmful pathogens from reaching the roots
- Improves soil structure of sandy and clay soil
- Creates strong roots fast
Cons
- Individual plants can connect with other plants through the mycorrhizal network. Even where it’s unwanted, it connects and shares nutrients, water, and sugars.
Trifecta – Mycorrhizal Fungi for Soil, Root Stimulator for Plants
$19.95

Ultra Concentrated Mycorrhizae for Plants Strong Roots & Living Soil, Trifecta Myco Supreme Plant Root Stimulator for Tree, Rose and Flowers

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02/05/2026 04:06 pm GMT
Myco Bliss Powder – Highly Concentrated Mycorrhizae
This fungus is essential to soil life! It is vital to establish a secondary root system to help with nutrient intake. This fungus is for one-in-a-lifetime use and does not need topping up again. Use it while planting to help improve plant establishment, natural vigor, flowering, and fruiting.
Pros
- Grows secondary roots systems fast
- Improves uptake of water and nutrients
- One treatment lasts a lifetime, making it affordable to use
- Helps with replant problem
- Restores almost dead trees with a lifetime vigor
- Reduces Fertilizer Dependency
Cons
- Works best on trees, not plants and vegetables
Highly Concentrated Mycorrhizae for Plants, Potting Soil, Indoor Plants, Outdoor Plants, & Houseplants
$24.99

Myco Bliss Powder (1lb) – 5 Strain Mycorrhizal Inoculant with 1,000 Propagules per Gram

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02/05/2026 10:03 am GMT
Root naturally Endomycorrhizal
This is a granular mycorrhizal that consists of 4 species of endomycorrhizal fungi. These are Glomus intraradices, G. etunicatum, G. mosseae, and G. aggregatum. Almost 85% of world plant species form a symbiotic relationship with fungi including trees and vegetables. The fungus increases the effectiveness of rooting in plants. This supports the plant growth, tolerance, and vigor of any ecological extremes. The mycorrhizal propagules promote plant quality and crop performance with their rooting ability.
Pros
- Supports faster plant establishment
- Accesses water beyond the root zone and delivers to the plant’s vascular network
- Absorbs and delivers nutrients to the roots
- Improves soil nutrients use
- Improves root biomass
- Absorbs and transports soil moisture from beyond the root zone to the plant’s roots
- Improves stress tolerance
Cons
- It is only useful to common plants and vegetables but not trees
Root Naturally – Endo Mycorrhizae
$10.99

Pros:
Granular
Packaged in easy scoop white jar
4 Species Endo-Mycorrhizae (Glomus intraradices, G. mosseae, G. aggregatum, G. etunicatum)
60,000 Propagules/lb

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02/05/2026 09:02 am GMT
What Plants Need Mycorrhizal Fungi?
Several plants benefit from mycorrhizal fungi. These include:
Trees
Oak, pine, and spruce tree species can benefit from mycorrhizal fungi. It can help them extract nutrients and water from the ground by fusing with their roots.
Shrubs
Blueberry, rhododendron, and azalea shrubs are some of those that benefit from this fungi. It can help shrubs obtain more root power and increase their tolerance to environmental stresses.
Vegetable Crops
Carrots, peppers, onions, potatoes, and herbs can benefit from mycorrhizal fungi. It can help increase vegetable resistance against diseases and ensure they get more nutrients from the soil.
Is Mycorrhizal Fungi The Same as Rooting Hormone?
Mycorrhizal fungi and rooting hormones are two different things. However, both can be used to help plants thrive.
Rooting hormones are applied to the cut ends of plants. It helps them develop roots more quickly. You can use a rooting hormone to increase your success rate when propagating plants. Contrarily, mycorrhizal fungi are applied to the soil around the plant roots. It helps plants absorb water and nutrients and withstand drought and disease.
Where Can I Buy Mycorrhizal Fungi Near Me?
There are several places you can buy mycorrhizal fungi. Here are some suggestions:
Local Garden Centers
Nurseries and garden centers carry a variety of gardening supplies. Most stock mycorrhizal fungi. You can visit a garden center near you and ask the staff if mycorrhizal fungi are available for purchase.
Online Retailers
Many online retailers specialize in gardening supplies. Others stock it as part of their general inventory. You can search for retailers near you or those that deliver in your area.
Specialty Stores
You may find mycorrhizal fungi for sale at specialty stores focusing on organic or sustainable gardening supplies. These stores may be more likely to carry a variety of products, including mycorrhizal fungi.
Manufacturers
Going directly to manufacturers is another option. You might find one that sells to the public. Many companies that produce mycorrhizal fungi have websites that allow you to purchase their products online.
How Often Should I Apply Mycorrhizal Fungi?
Many factors influence how often you’ll need to apply mycorrhizal fungi to your soil. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Follow The Manufacturer’s Instructions
You should also look at the specific instructions provided by the product manufacturer. These instructions will provide the most accurate guidance on how often to apply the mycorrhizal fungi.
Apply Mycorrhizal Fungi at Planting Time
Mycorrhizal fungi are typically most effective when applied to young plants or at the time of planting. This allows the fungi to establish a relationship with the plant’s roots and help the plant absorb water and nutrients more efficiently.
Reapply Mycorrhizal Fungi As Needed
If you use mycorrhizal fungi to help establish new plants or improve plant health, you may need to reapply the product regularly. The specific frequency will depend on the needs of your plants and the particular product you are using.
What Can I Use Instead of Mycorrhizal Fungi?
If you do not want to use mycorrhizal fungi or can not find any, you can use compost, fertilizers, or animal manure. These alternatives can provide many benefits to your plants. However, they may not benefit your plants as mycorrhizal fungi can. You should determine your specific needs and choose an alternative based thereon.
What Eats Mycorrhizal Fungi?
Mycorrhizal fungi can be damaged or destroyed. You should avoid chemical pesticides and limit physical disturbances. Excessive moisture or dryness can also damage the fungi. Taking steps to protect and preserve the mycorrhizal fungi in your soil will help ensure that it benefits your plants.
How to Breed Mycorrhizal Fungi
Breeding mycorrhizal fungi can be a complex process that requires specialized knowledge and expertise. If you are interested in breeding these fungi, I suggest seeking guidance from a professional in the field. Alternatively, you can keep these steps in mind:
1. The first step in breeding mycorrhizal fungi is to isolate individual strains. You can do this by using surface sterilization or culturing techniques.
2. Once you have isolated particular strains, you can select specific traits. Good traits include their ability to colonize the roots of individual plant species or withstand certain environmental conditions.
3. Next, you need to cross-breed your selected strains to create new fungi with the desired traits.
4. You should test the resulting mycorrhizal fungi strains to ensure their effectiveness.
5. If your resulting strains are effective, you can mass-produce them for personal use or sale.
Conclusion
Roots are very important to a plant. They anchor the plant in place, resisting the forces of nature like wind and running water. They take in oxygen, water, and nutrients from the soil for the plant to bloom. Roots are also good for the soil! When it rains, the roots hold the soil in place so that it is not washed away. Healthy roots mean healthy soils and healthy plants as well! Now you know an affordable way to grow a healthy root structure that will cause your plants to thrive! Go ahead and excel in your farming!
August 30, 2020
A Complete List Of Where To Buy Pumice For Gardening
Organic farmers have been looking for places where to buy pumice for gardening that comes in different sizes. Besides your local stockist, it is critical to see who can deliver pumice to your doorstep.
Pumice is a volcanic rock that provides excellent soil conditioning and improvement. It helps keep nutrients and increase aeration in the soil because of its porous.
It is possible to buy your pumice from the comfort of your home through the online stores. Look at all the options below and see where you can find it easily.
Where To Buy Pumice For Gardening
Pumice For Plants Companies
Generalpumiceproducts.com. This is an all American company based in Southern California. They have mastered the sourcing and selling of environmentally friendly pumice. Their promise is to offer the best pumice from their sources. They have two mines in Olancha California. Each bag of pumice that they sell is mined and packaged on-site. Head over to their site and place your orders.
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Pumicestore.com. Hess Pumice is a company located in Idaho. It mines and processes pumice to be used in various applications. They are a lead supplier of pumice. Pumice store offers different grades of pumice that match your garden needs. They offer different stone sized bags ranging from 5 to 100 pounds.
Bulk apothecary.com. They began as Brick and Mortar Company in 2010. And have since expanded to pumice stone and other products. They stand out for their exceptional customer service, great quality, and low prices. Before you order, you can also check reviews from past customers.
Read more about Scoria and Pumice Pros and Cons for Succulent Growing
Ecommerce Stores Where To Buy Pumice For Gardening
Amazon.com. Being the largest retailer in the world, Amazon offers a wide selection of goods. The wide selection means it’s possible to find a variety of one item in different prices and sizes. Pumice is such an item! You can scroll through and select this product from different sellers. An Amazon Prime account gives you an added advantage of free 2-day shipping. Before you place your order, it’s possible to read reviews from other buyers. The competitive pricing and wide selection make it a great platform to order from.
Etsy.com. Independent sellers across the globe can sell their products on Etsy. Gardening is not left out in this e-commerce site. You can browse through the gardening category and find pumice sellers. Many sellers offer free shipping with your purchase. It comes in different sizes, content composition, and price. Check Etsy to see if any seller has the right pumice you need.
Wayfair.com. This e-commerce store has many supplies stocking home décor and gardening products. To qualify for the free shipping, you can order goods over $35 and get them shipped to you at no cost.
Build a soil.com. They specialize in a variety of organic fertilizers. Their pumice stone does not as much variety as other sellers. But they sell a high-quality blend that increases soil health. They offer free shipping on about 37 pounds of weight free shipping.
Recommended Products- Pumice for Gardening
Conclusion
Pumice is an amazingly versatile stone! In these modern days, it’s getting many uses thus more customers. You now know where to order when you need pumice for your various needs.
August 29, 2020