Can I use "sharp sand" to lighten a clay soil.

Have just created a raised bed to grow vegetables a new venture for me

Asked on 23 Feb, 2009 by

Itzeethecat

Location: SouthWales Upper Swansea Valley, United Kingdom

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Answers

Littlegreen..

Basically, yes, but I would strongly advise you to also use a lot of organic matter - this is a much better fix for clay soil long term. It's best to do this for veg beds in autumn or early winter rather than spring but you can use sand anytime.

23 Feb, 2009

Doctorbob1

You really need heavy grit or broken old bricks, kiln made. These will last in the soil keeping it open. For very heavy soil you will need to use a lot.

23 Feb, 2009

Sarraceniac

Just to add to Drbob's advice: If using old bricks get rid of any clinging cement unless you want alkaline soil. Cement contains lime (and I don't mean lime trees or fruits).

John.

23 Feb, 2009

Spritzhenry

Just steer clear of builders' sand, which may have salt in it - fatal for plants.

23 Feb, 2009

Gilli

If you use just sand it will turn your clay to concrete. You must add at least three times as much organic matter as sand and at the same time. Keep adding the organic matter as time goes on but usually you only need to add the sand once.

24 Feb, 2009

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