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DIY Greensand Fertilizer

Greensand contains the natural mineral glauconite, which helps tighten up loose soils and loosen up clay or tight soils. Glauconite contains potash and a hydrated silicate of iron. Furthermore, greensand contributes potassium and other trace minerals to plants. Plants use potassium to fend off diseases. Gardeners use greensand because it will not burn their plants like other fertilizers that contain excessive amounts of nitrogen. Fertilizing your plants with greensand provides a healthy soil environment for your lawn and ornamental grass.

Things You'll Need

  • Drop spreader
  • Compost
  • Rake
  • Tuna can
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pour half of the amount of greensand you need into a drop spreader to distribute over the lawn. Use 10 to 20 pounds of greensand per 1,000 square feet.

    • 2

      Push the drop spreader vertically over the lawn. Add the rest of the greensand to the drop spreader and distribute horizontally.

    • 3

      Spread 1/2 inch of compost over the lawn to contribute nutrients. Water the lawn area to a depth of 1 inch. To judge if you have watered the lawn to that depth, set a tuna can in the yard. Water the yard until there is 1 inch of water in the can.

    • 4

      Apply greensand to ornamental beds with the drop spreader. Use 2 to 4 pounds per 100 square feet. Spray any plants that are coated with the fertilizer. Water the area with 1 inch of water.

    • 5

      Fertilize container-grown plants with greensand. Incorporate 2 tablespoons of greensand into the first 6 inches of soil and water.