Australian supplier of high-quality bentonite clay
Telephone: (+61 8) 9756 6121
Facsimile: (+61 8) 9755 2541
Email: info@bentoniteproductswa.com.au
Australian supplier of high-quality bentonite clay
Telephone: (+61 8) 9756 6121
Facsimile: (+61 8) 9755 2541
Email: info@bentoniteproductswa.com.au
Spread clay granules over surface of cleared soil at rate of 6 kg per m2. Spread compost over soil at recommended rates at the same time. Mix this into soil to depth of 150-200 mm.
Sprinkle granules onto surface and incorporate into soil profile to 150 mm as much as possible. For these applications it is better to use lower addition rates but repeat the process to reach optimal clay content. Adding high levels of clay and not mixing these in well will result in clumping and waterproofing of the soil surface.
You will need to add small amounts of clay granules onto lawn surface and water these in. Do this in small increments; repeat the application as required until an improvement in soil retention and soil wetting is observed. Adding too much clay at once will result in clumping of clay and formation of a clay film, which can seal the surface to water and will be sticky underfoot.
Modern potting mixes are lightweight and free draining which can be a problem with outside pot plants on our hot dry days. Some potting mixes have added synthetic water retention aids, so may not need clay with these. Adding clay to potting mix will improve water retention and reduce wilting on hot days due to water loss. Clay also aids nutrient retention and will improve plant growth and vigour. Add clay granules to loose potting mix when establishing new pots. Recommended addition rates of 0.5-1 kg clay granules per 25 L bag.
Make up a slurry of clay in water ~10 % dry weight, 1 kg per 10 l bucket. Add clay to water, mix with flat stirrer or paint mixer on electric drill. Allow to stand for few hours or overnight, this allows the clay granules to hydrate properly. Remix and pour over the pot surface or around the drip line of garden plants. Recommended addition rate 5 litres for large pot or medium size garden plant. 10-20 L per m2 for garden beds or large established plants and fruit trees.
