Dolomite fertilizer. Features of application on various lands

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 with a crystalline structure that can have different colors(from white to brown). Flour is prepared by crushing dolomite. Because 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 preparing for the gardening season as it improves growth. horticultural 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 applying both in open areas and in greenhouses, makeshift 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 available 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. Optimal time- 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 it is advised not to delay the autumn introduction 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.

loves dolomite and garden strawberry. Top dressing based on it is applied to autumn period so as not to harm young seedlings when 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. If flour is left on arable land (without loosening and embedding into the ground), the action of this fertilizer is delayed. 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 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. Weak acidic soils dandelions and chamomile like it, but quinoa and nettle 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 productivity fruit 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.

Exist universal fertilizers who have 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 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.

The smaller the particles of 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 house or household 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 respond 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 hyperacidity soil. Potatoes, for example, when adding dolomite flour without the recommended amount 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

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

1. The Mitlider method. Instruction: for 1 kg of dolomite flour, take 8 g of boric acid powder, distribute it over the ridges, dig it up. A week later, mineral chemical fertilizers and dig again. Suitable for open ground.
2. Makuni method. Mix 2 liters of soil from the ridge, 2 liters of special substrate for certain culture, which is preparing for planting, 2l sphagnum moss, 1l river sand, 4 liters of peat, then first add 30 g of dolomite flour, then the same amount of 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.

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 you need to take into account the type of wood from which the ash was made, calculate required amount for deoxidation is very difficult, especially on 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 soil neutralization, interferes with crops in sufficient absorb phosphorus and nitrogen, so it is better to make 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.

Every summer resident who cares about the harvest in his area has at least once heard of dolomite flour. The advantages of this tool are efficiency, environmental friendliness and availability. Today we will talk about the features of the use of dolomite flour, its unique properties and methods of application in the garden and garden.

Dolomite flour: what is it and what is it for?

This substance is produced by grinding dolomite, a limestone rock (chemical formula CaCO3*MgCO3). It is calcium that is the leading component in the action of dolomite flour on the soil. It is known that hydrogen ions displace this chemical element from the soil, causing its acidity to increase, and its physical and chemical properties, respectively, to decrease.

Dolomite flour is one of the cheapest and most effective fertilizers.

If the soil is on your suburban area acidic, then you will have to artificially equalize, and then adjust the balance of hydrogen and calcium. One of better ways to achieve a good result in this matter is the use of dolomite flour, often in combination with other means.

Composition and properties

Dolomite flour has the form of a powder consisting of very small crystals with a glassy sheen. It can be white, gray, reddish, and in some cases even Brown. Flour is made in industrial scale exclusively under production conditions.

This fertilizer is a limestone rock dolomite crushed into flour

In dolomite flour, the calcium content is higher than in lime, by 8%. In addition, it contains 40% magnesium, which is very important for the growth and development of plants: it helps to resist many diseases (chlorosis, brown spotting).

Dolomite flour is successfully used not only on open ground, but also in greenhouses, greenhouses, and even when growing indoor flowers.

Effect on soil and plants

The effectiveness of dolomite ground into flour is difficult to overestimate. This tool performs a whole range of useful actions:

Usually experienced gardeners and gardeners are aware of the characteristics of the soil in their area. But if you are a beginner and are only going to master the cottage, you need to find out the level of soil acidity. You will need this information in order to enter optimal amount fertilizers.

There are special devices and one-time tests that determine acidity; they can be purchased at any store focused on gardening and horticulture. But if this is not possible, you can easily measure the acidity of the soil yourself. It is expressed in terms of pH and denoted by the numbers 0–14.

There are 2 ways to determine the level of soil acidity.

1. Take some land, lay on flat surface and pour a small amount of table vinegar. The bubbling reaction with the release of foam indicates that the acidity is weak or neutral.

   Neutral and slightly acidic soil will react to table vinegar.

   Vinegar will simply soak into soil with high acidity without reacting.

   Soil with high acidity will not react to vinegar.

2. Place a small lump of soil in a glass of grape juice (natural). If the color of the juice changes, and bubbles float to the surface, the soil is neutral or slightly acidic.

   Grape juice can be used as a catalyst for the reaction to soil acidity: on the right, the soil is neutral or slightly acidic

Video: how to independently determine the acidity of the soil

When to fertilize and how much dolomite flour is required?

Having found out the level of acidity and the mechanical composition of the soil, you can easily calculate the amount of dolomite flour required for application.

Table: the amount of fertilizer depending on the acidity

For the lungs sandy soils the amount should be reduced by 1.5 times, for heavy clay - on the contrary, increased by 10-15%.

Note! To increase the effectiveness of dolomite flour, distribute it as evenly as possible over the surface.

Dolomite flour can be applied to the soil in any season. But we recommend that you carry out deoxidation in the fall, after you have harvested the entire crop. In winter, the earth will rest, and by spring it will be completely saturated with useful substances. Enough in a stationary greenhouse heat and air humidity is reached much faster than on open ground, so the introduction of dolomite flour can be carried out in the spring, during the first digging of the soil.

Try to distribute dolomite flour evenly over the soil surface.

If your site has heavy clay soil, an annual application of dolomite flour will be appropriate. For soil of a different composition and type, it is enough to carry out deoxidation using this agent once every 3-4 years.

When distributing dolomite flour over the surface of the soil, be sure to loosen it by 10-15 cm, mixing thoroughly. If the fertilizer is simply scattered, the effect of its action will appear only after a year, when everything will be washed deep into the soil by rainfall. This rule especially applies to stationary greenhouses, in which watering is usually artificial.

The combination of dolomite flour with various types of plants (table)

Traditionally, agricultural crops are divided into 4 groups according to the reaction to the typical composition of the soil and the addition of dolomite flour to it.

Combination with individual plants

What fertilizers can dolomite flour be used with (table)

A greater effect can be achieved if you use dolomite flour for digging the soil on the site

The Mitlider method has become quite popular when deoxidizing the soil. Prepare a mixture in the ratio of 7–8 g of boric acid per 1 kg of dolomite flour. Apply at the same time as mineral fertilizers for digging each time you change crops to garden plot. For a peat bog and heavy soil, you will need 200 g of such a mixture per 1 running meter narrow ridge, for light soil - 100 g, respectively.

Analogues of dolomite flour

Lime

Hydrated lime (popularly called "fluff"). Chemical formula Ca(OH)2. The substance has the highest soil deoxidizing properties. The calcium content is supplemented by a hydroxyl group (OH), which gives the lime a neutralization capacity that is one and a half times greater than the same characteristic of crushed dolomite.

But the speed of action and the high activity of fluff significantly reduce the absorption of phosphorus by plants. Therefore, it is recommended to apply lime only in the autumn period, so that a balance is established by spring. chemical processes in the ground.

Ash

Wood ash is the most available remedy to reduce the acidity of the soil. It contains from 30 to 60% calcium. The disadvantage of ash is that it is very difficult to determine its composition by eye. It can depend not only on the type of trees burned, but also on the type of soil on which they grew, and even on what was burned - branches or trunk.

Therefore, the amount of ash required to be applied to the soil is conditionally given in the recommendations. However, in any case, it will require 2 times more per unit area than dolomite flour. Is there always so much material at hand? This is the reason why ash is more often used as a component of plant soils used for seedlings and indoor plants.

Chalk or dry plaster

accessible way. These substances contain the highest calcium content. The introduction of chalk or plaster can be carried out in early spring, before planting, under plowing. The method is quite effective, but the material will require 30% more than dolomite flour.

Chalk has a low solubility in water, which clogs the soil, and over time leads to its salinization, which is easy to detect by white coating on the surface.

Gypsum or alabaster

These inexpensive tools do a good job of deoxidizing the soil. But, firstly, they will need 2 times more to achieve the effect, and secondly, gypsum is not useful for humans, and alabaster is completely harmful. These tools must be used with caution.

Eggshell

This material is found to be quite effective. Crushed egg shells are brought into the soil calcined in a pan or in the form of an infusion. But it will take quite a lot, and collect right amount material to the beginning of the sowing is very difficult. Therefore, eggshells are more often used in small areas, separate beds or flower beds.

Photo gallery: what can replace dolomite flour?

Ordinary chalk will replace dolomite flour, but you will need large quantity Alabaster and gypsum are often used to deoxidize the soil. egg shell have been used for a long time to improve the physical and chemical qualities of the soil Slaked lime too aggressive on the soil compared to dolomite flour wood ash on the ground is quite difficult to predict

Of course, liming the soil with dolomite flour will not give you visible instant results. You will see a real effect in the form of a high yield in the second or third year after regular treatment of the site. But now you know how to properly deoxidize the soil in your garden so that the labor invested in growing garden and garden crops brings good fruit. Share with us in the comments your experience of using dolomite flour in your summer cottage, or ask questions that you have after reading the article. Easy work and good harvest!

Important rules and nuances of using dolomite flour in the garden Most of the crops grown in garden plots are sensitive to soil quality. receive regularly abundant harvests only if the soil is neutral or slightly alkaline. Acidic soil is not suitable for agriculture, so acidity is neutralized before planting. A suitable tool for this is dolomite flour, 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 concentrations. Dolomite flour can be used as fertilizer. In the process of purely mechanical processing, no chemical additives are introduced, the product is used in in kind. 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

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 the structure of the soil improves, the use of fertilizer has other positive effects: The number of weeds in the garden plot is reduced. Microorganisms, bacteria and insects that live in the soil and are beneficial for plants are stimulated to reproduce. The effect of other fertilizers applied for planting (chemical or natural) becomes more noticeable. The number of pests is drastically reduced. Powder particles play the role of an abrasive, damaging the chitinous cover of beetles and the soft tissues of 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. Fruits that receive less damage from pests are much better stored. 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. Ecological cleanliness of grown vegetables, berries and fruits. Dolomite flour has unique property neutralize salts deposited in the soil heavy metals 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 the introduction of dolomite flour depending on the time of year Application period Recommendations Spring (15–20 days before planting a certain crop) - April-May vegetable crops. Fertilizer is used not only for open ground, but also for greenhouses. This procedure helps prevent the spread of mold, rot and other plant diseases caused by fungi. Autumn (after harvesting) - from the end of August to the end of October Flour is scattered around fruit trees, mentally outlining a circle about 2 m in diameter, and the earth is intensively loosened. For one tree, 1.5–2 kg is enough. When fertilizing shrubs, both the norm and the area of ​​application are halved. Winter - February-March Flour can be scattered on the snow in winter, so that in the spring, when it melts, the fertilizer is absorbed into the soil. But such a procedure will be effective only in a certain area. It should be relatively flat (say, a slope of 5-7º) and covered with loose snow. If the thickness of the snow cover exceeds 25–30 cm, there will be no benefit from dolomite flour. Similarly, if the site is marked strong wind. Fertilizer will simply blow away until spring. The tool must be completely dry, otherwise it will quickly freeze in the cold. Summer During the entire growing season, dolomite flour is good feeding and pest control. Observing the application rate, it is possible to process plantings every 4-6 weeks. Combined option. If a large arable land is cultivated, 2/3 of the norm of flour is applied to the ground when plowing in the fall, and the remaining third - in the spring when re-plowing. The nuances of applying and applying fertilizer Dolomite flour will be useful to you only if the soil on the site is really acidic. In order not to waste your own time, effort and money, first find out if you need such fertilizer at all. There are special devices and litmus paper for this. But in the 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 processed, the procedure should be carried out every 6–9 years mineral fertilizers and 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 acid-sensitive soil crops, 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 an urgent question arises: 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 Soil Recommendations for the application of dolomite flour Sour 50 kg of dolomite flour per 100 m² or 500 g per 1 m². Medium acid 40–45 kg per 100 m². Slightly acidic 30–35 kg per 100 m². 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 Soil type What grows best Sorrel, gooseberries, cranberries, blueberries. Moderately sour Radish, radish, daikon, flax, cereals (millet, rye), buckwheat. Slightly acid Clover, alfalfa, cucumbers, corn, spinach, all varieties of leaf lettuce, carrots, soybeans, cereals (wheat, barley), potatoes, Bulgarian and spicy pepper, eggplant, tomatoes. Neutral All types of cabbage, turnips, beets, any legumes (beans, peas, beans, lentils), sainfoin, onions, garlic, strawberries. Alkaline Blackcurrant, stone fruit trees(cherries, plums, apricots, peaches). And a few more notes: Crops that prefer moderately acidic and slightly acidic soils will respond to the introduction of dolomite flour with an increase in yield. 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. If flour is needed by vegetable and berry crops, it is placed in holes or furrows for seeds and immediately planted. 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). 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.

Dolomite or limestone flour is currently one of the most popular fertilizers. Summer residents often use it in order to improve the condition of the soil. This mineral additive is used as a soil oxidizer. Its introduction provides soil enrichment with microelements. Moreover, by using this mineral composition the owner of a summer cottage makes it easier for himself to fight weeds and some insects.

This fertilizer organic origin increases the yield, while the grown fruits are absolutely safe for humans.

Dolomite flour: what is it, what is it for

Fertilizer dolomite flour is obtained by grinding the rock of dolomite, which belongs to the group of limestones. In its composition the main component is calcium. It is this chemical element that is displaced from the soil under the influence of hydrogen ions. As a result, a situation arises when the acidity of the soil increases, while there is a decrease in its physical and chemical properties.

Among all the fertilizers that are offered in gardening stores, dolomite flour is one of the most affordable, while has high efficiency. If your site is dominated by acidic soil, then you can easily equalize the acidity with this additive, and after that, using this fertilizer, it is easy to adjust the balance of hydrogen and calcium. The best effect can be achieved if other fertilizers are used along with dolomite flour.

Properties

The composition of dolomite flour contains elements such as calcium and magnesium. Thanks to them, limestone flour introduced into the soil has a positive effect on the composition of the soil, as well as affects acidity., which returns to normal values.

In most cases, summer residents acquire a limestone mineral composition in order to deoxidize the soil. This is the main property that is inherent in this supplement. When fertilizing, the acidity reaches such values ​​that make it possible to provide good conditions for plant growth. Note that this supplement has other positive properties. Important ones include the following:

• application dolomite composition leads to improvement of soil structure;
• fertilizing the garden with this mineral supplement, colonies of microorganisms appear in the soil, which have a healing effect on it;
• with the periodic introduction of dolomite flour into the soil, the upper layer is saturated, in which a high concentration of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium occurs;
• the content of calcium and magnesium increases in the soil;
• plants are better cleared of radionuclides.

When to contribute?

At any time of the year, dolomite flour can be used on your site. It is usually applied directly before adding other fertilizers to the soil. This is due to the fact that this mineral composition does not organically interact with all additives.

Already in early spring, dolomite flour is scattered on the summer cottage used by the owner for growing vegetables. Experienced gardeners do this a few weeks before planting. The introduction of such a fertilizer improves the structure of the soil, and, in addition, allows you to sanitize the soil. For many cultures, this is a very important point. In particular, for potatoes, which are quite often affected by various diseases.

Thanks to the dolomite additive, the occurrence of diseases of this crop and their spread are excluded. An important advantage of using this fertilizer for growing potatoes is that dolomite flour, when applied ensures the destruction of insects. As a result, this has a positive effect on the development of potatoes, as well as on the yield of this crop. The introduction of dolomite flour into the soil allows you to effectively eliminate:

• bear;
• colorado potato beetle and other potato pests.

One of the properties of dolomite flour is that it sanitizes the soil. This is especially important in the spring. With the advent of the first heat, gardeners make this fertilizer as a top dressing for plants in greenhouses. When tillage in the garden is carried out using such a mineral component, then fungal diseases on plants grown in greenhouses do not occur. This has a positive effect on the yield, and, in addition, provides better preservation of the obtained fruits and berries.

Note that dolomite flour is applied to the soil in the garden not only in spring, but also with the onset of autumn. During this period of the year, fertilizer is used for processing and nutrition fruit plants and shrubs. In such cases, experienced gardeners recommend adding about 2 kg of dolomite flour for each fruit tree. Groundbait is applied along the edge trunk circle with slight penetration. For shrubs, the fertilizer application rate is 0.5 kg. The mineral composition is applied in the same way as for fruit trees.

Terms of application

Experienced gardeners recommend using a fertilizer such as limestone flour once every 3-4 years. The frequency of applying this fertilizer to the soil is largely depends on soil pH. For example, if the site is dominated by heavy clay soils, then the gardener must apply dolomite flour every year. If the main purpose of using this fertilizer is to improve the quality of the soil near the trees, then once every 2 years it is necessary to sprinkle 1-2 kg of bait under them.

Dolomite flour should be applied directly after harvest. For feeding shrubs, lime flour is applied under each plant in the amount of 0.5-1 kg. With the onset of spring, it is recommended to water beets and clematis with a weak solution of dolomite flour.

Not for all plants you can use this supplement. In particular, such a mineral composition should not be applied to gooseberries and sorrel. When using this additive, the development of these plants slows down, which leads to a decrease in crop yields.

Dolomite flour must be applied before planting plants in the greenhouse. It should also be applied before planting indoor plants. After making the mineral component should be mixed with the substrate. The use of this fertilizer as a top dressing can significantly improve the development of orchids, violets and hyacinths.

Application method

The use of this top dressing to improve plant growth and increase yield is appropriate on all types of acidic soils. You can use this mineral supplement not only in spring, but also in summer and autumn. Some gardeners make it even in winter. Note that it is possible to fertilize with a mineral composition of dolomite not only open, but also closed ground. An important point is an proper conduct liming procedures using dolomite flour. Only in this case it is possible to bring the maximum benefit to the plants. Backfilling is carried out using one of two methods:

• Mitlider;
• Makuni.

Mitlider Technology

By choosing this method, the gardener must follow all the recommendations contained in the instructions for fertilizing, which was developed by Mitlider. This method is suitable for small areas. The method itself involves the dilution of dolomite flour with boric acid in the amount of 78 g per 1 kg of fertilizer. The resulting mixture is used for application to the soil simultaneously with other mineral fertilizers.

If on site heavy soil prevails, then on narrow beds it is necessary to use 200 g of flour per 1 linear meter. In the soil of a light type, 100 g of fertilizer is applied. This method of application involves a simple scattering of top dressing on the surface of the soil. This should be done as evenly as possible. After completing this manipulation, top dressing is plowed to a shallow depth.

Method B.M Makuni

This method of plant nutrition was developed by B.M Makuni. However, it is more focused on preparing potting mixes for indoor plants. Using this method involves doing the following:

• first you need to prepare the necessary components for the preparation and fertilizer mixture: dolomite flour - 1 tablespoon; superphosphate - 1 tablespoon; charcoal in crushed form - 0.5 liters; soil "Saintpaulia" - half of the package;
• before the start of the manipulation, you need to add 1 part to the bucket in which the fertilizer mixture will be prepared. garden soil and sphagnum moss. After that, two parts of high-moor peat should be added and 0.5 parts of river sand should be added. Pour the dolomite mixture on top, and then mix all the parts.

What fertilizers can not be used with dolomite flour?

Every gardener will agree that limestone flour is good fertilizer. However, there are certain types of mineral supplements that share this supplement is not allowed. The list of such fertilizers includes:

• ammonium sulfate;
• superphosphate various kinds;
• manure and compost.

Dolomite flour: how to use in the garden

The amount of mineral supplement based on dolomite, which will need to be applied to the soil. The mechanical composition of the soil is also important. Experienced gardeners recommend average rates for making dolomite flour:

if on site acidic soils predominate(environment reaction less than 4.5), it is recommended to apply top dressing per square meter in the amount of 500-600 g;

for soil of medium acidity(environment reaction from 4.5 to 5.2) dolomite flour should be applied per square meter in the amount of 450 to 500 g;

if the site is dominated slightly acidic soils(environment reaction 5.2-5.6) it is necessary to apply this fertilizer in the amount of 310-415 g.

If the site is dominated by clay soil heavy type, then the amount of fertilizer should be increased by 10-15%. If the soil is of a light type, then the amount of this top dressing should be reduced by 50%.

Before you decide on the amount of fertilizer, you need to find out what type of soil is on your site. This is quite easy to do thanks to special tests and devices which can be purchased at gardening stores. It is worth noting that when making dolomite flour, the effectiveness of this fertilizer increases markedly if, together with it, blue vitriol and boric acid.

Conclusion

Crops grown on own site, will grow well and give a decent harvest only if they are fertilized and regularly watered. Today there are many mineral supplements. One of the most popular among gardeners is dolomite flour, the use of which is quite simple. The bait is shallowly deepened under trees and shrubs, and then plowed up. In order for the use of this mineral composition to bring maximum benefit to plants, you should know how to properly apply this fertilizer. This top dressing is not organically combined with all fertilizers. Knowing all the nuances of using this mineral composition, you can collect every year good harvest in your area.