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bondo2

Lime substitue

bondo2
10 years ago

Hi,

I made my own self irrigated pots (like earthbox or earthainer) and and am using peat moss for medium but I have no access to lime to add to it. I am thinking of 2 alternatives but I need help:
1. Granite/marble powder
2. Crushed sea shells (just those regular shells found on the beach)

Would they work ?

Comments (10)

  • bitzppa
    10 years ago

    just straight peat ?

    BZ

  • bondo2
    Original Author
    10 years ago

    Peat and perlite mixture

  • edweather USDA 9a, HZ 9, Sunset 28
    10 years ago

    You coud use gypsum for calcium, and epsom salts for magnesium, in place if the lime. What are you planning on growing?

  • bondo2
    Original Author
    10 years ago

    I like to grow mostly tomatoes, bell peppers, coriander and parsley. I don't have gypsum, how do I use the epsom with this setup ?.
    I understand that lime is also to fix the PH of peat, am I correct ?

  • greenman28 NorCal 7b/8a
    10 years ago

    Lime = Calcium + Magnesium
    Gypsum = Calcium
    Epsom Salt = Magnesium

    Thus, the Gypsum + Epsom Salt are required to provide both elements found in the Dolomitic Lime.

    Lime does raise the pH of a mix, yes.

    Josh

  • bondo2
    Original Author
    10 years ago

    How much should I add to my peat ?
    Isn't granite powder the same ?
    Is gypsum the same used in plaster ?

  • bitzppa
    10 years ago

    yes same as plaster, but 99.9% of plaster used in building has additives in it to help it set etc..so I wouldn't use that for plants.

    granite powder may have some K in it depending where it comes from after a quick google.

    as for how much gypsum to use I wouldn't go overboard start out with the tablespoon a gallon and see how it goes.

    BZ

  • bondo2
    Original Author
    10 years ago

    But all that won't fix the acidity of Peat

  • greenman28 NorCal 7b/8a
    10 years ago

    Do you have any woodashes?

    Josh

  • bondo2
    Original Author
    10 years ago

    Not really but I have coal (wood), would that work ?

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