Question
Here I am again from rural Reno, NV.
Bought a soils test kit and found that I have a very high concentration of alkali in my soil, very probably from our well water. The soil was purchased in a variety of ways, in bags (Miracle Grow), brought in by the truck load, etc. added to the existing soil, and seasoned horse manure was added. I'm pretty sure the well water is the source of the problem, but how can I "amend" the soil to provide nutrients that are being stripped by the alkali. We're "high desert" here, but saw something online about adding pyrite, gypsum, charcoal, zinc etc. How much, how often, how soon can I see results?
Clueless in Reno. Thanks,
Schell


Answer
Hi again, I think you should first fix the water.  If you keep adding the water, you can't fix the problem.  Contact a water filtration company in your area and invest in a filter system.  Then, I'd check the soil pH again and start bringing it within range.
Check with your nearest independent nurseryman.  I'm sure he's seen this problem before in your area and he can supply you with the products you need and recommend plants that will perform under the conditions you have.  He has indeed...been there and done that!
I really don't think there is a need to try to fix your soil as long as the water is the same.  Jims