GREENSAND

Custom Search

Greensand (Glauconite) is a sand or sediment that consists largely of dark greenish grains of glauconite, usually mixed with clay or sand. There are three main places that mine Glauconite in the United States, New Jersey, Texas and Arkansas.

This natural mineral opens up tight soil and binds loose soils.

It is mainly potash and a hydrated silicate of iron. It releases its nutritional benefits through an ion exchange action in the soil.

The mineral, which contains a huge amount of Potassium plus trace minerals (as many as 30), has been used since the 1700s it has been used as a fertilizer and soil conditioner. It loosens clay soils and increases the water-holding capability of sandy soils.

Recommended application is 2-4 pounds per 100 square feet or 1 tonne per acre.

The New Jersey version contains 20% iron oxide and 7% Potassium (Potash). The ancient sea deposit gives a slow release of Potash and the other essential minerals.

The Texas type of greensand, also known as glittergreen, has pretty much same the properties as the New Jersey type. It's a potassium and iron soil supplement recommended as a mulch, conditioning additive or top dressing. It slow-releases nutrients, loosens soils and holds water.

In Arkansas, it's is a sandy marl that can be 2-10 feet thick, with glauconite purity often as high as 50%.

Greensand is non-soluble in water, so will not burn plants. It's safe to handle and is odorless. Best of all, it can be applied any time of the year.

Unfortunately, there's one big drawback to using this mineral soil amendment. Greensand was created millions of years ago in seabeds that covered New Jersey, Texas and Arkansas. Obviously, those seas are gone, so there's no more greensand being created.

That makes it a nonrenewable resource. So please use it wisely, by following the directions on the package.

From Greensand to Organic Fertilizers