Download Struyk Turf Lawn Care Soil Amendments

Soil Amendments
Soil amendments are not fertilizers but are materials that are applied to the soil to
help condition it so that desired species can better compete with undesired species.
Also, soil amendments help with nutrient availability so that the turf
keeps a healthy desirable color. Struyk Turf offers two different soil
amendment applications (lime and (gypsum) to help your lawn look its
best. These are the two most common amendments needed by our
areas soils. Listed below are some of the reasons why:
The Benefits Of Lime Applications
Decreases acidity - improving the growing conditions for microorganisms that are present in your lawn. These micro-organisms
literally eat thatch.
Corrects soil acidity - nutrients are most available when pH is
between 6.5 and 7.5.
Acts as a catalyst - making fertilizer more available to the grass plant.
Supplies additional plant nutrients:
- Calcium - responsible for many functions of grass plant growth and development, including
uptake of other nutrients, all growth functions, and cell division.
- Magnesium - an essential part of chlorophyll, which gives plants their green color and
generates all energy and food needed by the plant.
Helps maintain micro-nutrients at their most satisfactory level reducing either toxicity or
deficiency symptoms to turf.
Agronomists state that the greatest single benefit from liming is the reduction in availability of
manganese and aluminum in the soil. These elements in high concentrations are toxic to plants
and may inhibit the uptake of other plant nutrients.
The Benefits Of Gypsum Applications
Helps to correct the affects of salt damage caused by ice melting products used to maintain
clear sidewalks, driveways, and roads.
Helps high clay soils accept rain/irrigation by maintaining large soil peds.
Has a neutral effect on soil pH.
Aids in the repair of soil structure resulting in less compaction, better root growth, better water
penetration, more microbial activity in the root zone, and more effective pre-emergence
activity.
Aids in the regrowth of grass plants in areas damaged by pet deposits.
Gypsum is a source of calcium and sulfur, both of which are necessary plant nutrients.
Spring or Fall Applications Available
Following aeration is an ideal time to apply lime and/or gypsum.