What dosage should be applied of calcium sulfate to already established grass, specifically fescue arundinacea, and what properties does this product have?
When addressing the dosage of calcium sulfate (agricultural plaster) for grass already established, especially for Festuca Arundinacea (High Festuca), it is important to consider both the specific needs of the type of grass and soil conditions. The agricultural plaster is valued for its ability to improve soil structure, provide calcium and help the correction of sodicity without altering the pH of the soil.
Calcium sulfate properties:
- Calcium contribution: Essential for plant growth, improves the quality of the cell wall.
- Soil structure improvement: It helps prevent soil compaction and improves water and air infiltration.
- Sodium soil correction: Displaces the sodium of the exchange complex and improves drainage.
- Does not affect the pH of the ground: Unlike lime, the plaster does not alter the pH of the ground, which is crucial for established Céspedes that already have an adequate pH.
Dosification for Arundinacea Festuca:
The recommended dosage of calcium sulfate varies according to the specific conditions of the soil and the needs of the grass. However, as a general guide:
- Standard dosage: It is recommended to apply between 20 to 50 grams per square meter (g/m²) of calcium sulfate for established Céspedes. This application can be made once or twice a year, preferably during spring or autumn.
Application:
- Uniform distribution: Be sure to distribute the plaster evenly over the desired area.
- Post-application irrigation: It is advisable to water slightly after applying the plaster to facilitate its incorporation to the ground.
What granulometry to use?
The choice of calcium sulfate granulometry (agricultural plaster) to apply on the grass, including the Arundinacea festuca, depends on several factors, including the targets of the application, the soil conditions and the speed with which it is desired that the product Act. Here I explain the differences and situations in which you could prefer one or the other:
100 microns calcium sulfate
- Speed of action: The finest particles, such as 100 microns, dissolve more quickly on the ground. This means that calcium and sulfur provided by the plaster will be available more quickly for the grass.
- Ideal for rapid corrections: If you need to quickly correct sodicity problems or improve soil structure in less time, fine granulometry such as 100 microns would be preferable.
- Light applications: For superficial applications or when a rapid improvement is sought without deep alterations in the soil.
0-3 mm calcium sulfate
- Prolonged release: The largest particles, such as 0-3 mm, dissolve more slowly, which provides a longer calcium and sulfur release on the ground.
- Ideal for long -term improvements: If the objective is to improve the structure of the soil and the health of the grass in the long term, a thicker granulometry would be more appropriate.
- Less application frequency: Due to its slower release, it may be necessary to apply the product less frequently, which could be more convenient for the general maintenance of the grass.
General considerations
- Type of soil and conditions: Very compacted soils or drainage problems can benefit more from larger particles, which help improve soil structure more effectively.
- Application method: The machinery or equipment available to apply agricultural plaster can influence the choice of granulometry. The finest particles require equipment that avoid the creation of dust clouds, while the thickest can be easier to handle with standard recreational equipment.
Conclusion
The choice between 100 microns and 0-3 mm will depend on your specific needs and the current conditions of the grass and the ground. For rapid corrections and immediate nutrient availability, opt for 100 microns granulometry. For long-term improvements and a more controlled release of nutrients, 0-3 mm granulometry would be better. It is always advisable to consult with a soil specialist or an agronomist to obtain a personalized recommendation based on a detailed analysis of your specific conditions.
Calcium sulfate is a valuable product for the maintenance of Céspedes, including the Arundinacea Festuca, thanks to its benefits in improving soil structure and calcium contribution without altering the pH. The dosage must be adjusted to the specific conditions of the soil and the needs of the grass, always based on a previous soil analysis. To obtain the best results, it is advisable to follow the appropriate management practices and consider the advice of a Céspedes expert or an agronomist.