Grinding of Granite Resulting in Garden Soil
Decomposed granite (DG) might be a popular choice for landscaping due to its stability, permeability, and natural appearance, but it's not ideal for planting soil on its own. This is because DG lacks organic matter, has poor water retention, and can be alkaline, which limits plant growth.
To turn DG into a usable planting soil, it must be amended with organic material and soil conditioners. Here's a step-by-step guide to transforming DG into a healthy planting medium:
- Mix DG with organic matter: Incorporate compost, aged manure, or leaf mold to add nutrients and improve water retention and soil structure.
- Incorporate garden soil or topsoil: This introduces beneficial microbes and fine soil particles.
- Optionally, add peat moss or coconut coir: These materials can enhance moisture retention.
- Thoroughly mix the amended DG: Create a loose, friable soil rather than a compacted or purely mineral base.
- Test the pH and adjust as needed: If the DG is too alkaline, you can lower the pH by adding sulfur.
- Allow the mixture to sit and stabilize: Encourage microbial activity before planting.
A study has shown that untreated DG tends to be poor for plant growth due to its alkalinity and low organic content, and adding biochar alone was found ineffective as an amendment. Therefore, using rich organic amendments is critical to convert DG into healthy planting soil.
It's important to note that DG may not be suitable for areas with heavy foot or vehicle traffic as it may become loose or muddy over time. To prevent this, it's recommended to use DG with stabilizers when creating paths or garden trails.
When using DG for driveways, it's essential to consider using DG with resin. Lining the path or trail with a black metal strip also helps keep the DG in place.
Decomposed granite is mined from quarries worldwide and is available in various colours, making it a versatile choice for landscaping projects. Maintaining DG is relatively easy. Regularly sweep or rake the surface to remove leaves and debris, and periodically add more DG as needed to fill in any depressions.
When DG becomes compacted or loses its texture, you can loosen it by raking or adding water. It's also important to maintain a few feet distance between the DG path and the entry of a house or building.
Granite, the parent rock of DG, is an igneous rock, formed from the slow cooling and solidification of magma or lava beneath the Earth's surface. The resulting decomposed granite is a finely weathered and eroded form of the parent rock, with particles ranging from dust to three-eighths of an inch in size.
Decomposed granite is an excellent mulch material as it breaks down over time, providing nutrients to surrounding plants and soil. The small particles of DG ensure that there is no risk of rocks hitting your windshield.
In summary, while DG can serve as a mineral base or component, to make it suitable for planting, it must be mixed with organic matter and soil components that improve fertility, moisture holding, and microbial life. Without these amendments, plants will struggle to thrive in pure decomposed granite.
Home-and-garden enthusiasts may find it beneficial to amend decomposed granite for planting purposes, as it lacks organic matter, has poor water retention, and can be alkaline. follow this step-by-step guide to transform DG into a healthy planting medium: mix DG with organic matter like compost, aged manure, or leaf mold; incorporate garden soil or topsoil; optionally, add peat moss or coconut coir for improved moisture retention; thoroughly mix the amended DG for a loose, friable soil; test the pH and adjust as needed; allow the mixture to stabilize before planting; and maintain the soil by removing leaves and debris regularly. A rich organic amendment is critical to convert DG into healthy planting soil, as a study has shown that untreated DG tends to be poor for plant growth due to its alkalinity and low organic content.
