Question
Hi,

I live on a farm and we have clay soil.  Our paddocks get very muddy and the water just seems to lay on top of the ground because the clay just doesn't absorb the water.  Are there any trees that I could plant to maybe help this situation or do you know of any material that breaks down clay soil.  Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thank-you so much,

Debra

Answer
Hello:

Basically,you should perform the following,in order of importance:

Add organic matter.

Use plants with penetrating and deep roots.

Use a mole plow.

A mole plow is a specialized plow for slicing into clay soil and aiding in opening it up to roots and further promoting aeration and a change in texture by organic material.

Below is a list of plants that can furnish organic material and break up clay soil:

mustard

turnip

fodder radish (long taproot)

burdock

oats

austrian field pea

fava bean

alfalfa

switchgrass (produces a large amount of organic material. grows to 12 feet high. deep rooted).

birdsfoot grass (trefoil)

ryegrass

various ornamental grasses


Trees will not be useful for the purpose of improving clay soil.


Mark Harshman


For more comprehensive help check out my website at:

http://www.prestoexperts.com/expert/markland