Gypsum use in the wheatbelt

Authors

M R. Howell

Keywords

Gypsum, Soil structure, Soil stabilization

Disciplines

Agronomy and Crop Sciences | Soil Science | Sustainability | Water Resource Management

First Page Number

40

Last Page Number

43

ISSN

0021-8618

Abstract

One of the limitations to crop productivity in the wheatbelt is the poor structure of heavy textured soils. Many years of clearing and cultivation have caused the loss of soil organic matter and breakdown of soil aggregates - particles of sand, silt and clay - in the surface layers. This has led to the development of unstable soils with poor physical properties.

Although loss of soil structure is a serious problem, it can be reversed by altering the tillage practices that caused the problem. This improvement in soil structure and return to productivity can be a slow process. However gypsum can be applied to hasten the rate of improvement of unstable soils and when used in conjunction with sensible soil management practices, gypsum can improve long term stability.

Recommended Citation

Howell, M R. (1987) "Gypsum use in the wheatbelt," Journal of the Department of Agriculture, Western Australia, Series 4: Vol. 28: No. 2, Article 3.
Available at: https://library.dpird.wa.gov.au/journal_agriculture4/vol28/iss2/3