Chalk Soil

Chalk soil, an alkaline-based soil encompassing other elements such as iron and magnesium, tends to be a drier soil not excellent for plant growth. The high amount of limestone in chalky soils creates the alkaline. Plants grown in chalky soil do not grow well without additional fertilizers, organic matter, and water as chalky soil on its own only has moderate fertility. The iron and magnesium present in the soil hinders other nutrients from reaching the plant’s root for absorption. Planters need to continuously add organic matter or chalky soil can become too hard in hot weather. Chalky soils have good drainage and retain some moisture, but not too much thus manual watering is necessary.  Under the top layer of chalky soil are usually small stones.

tags: chalk ·