Roberto is busy preparing beds to sow winter crops. After
each crop is finished, we spread compost on the bed at the rate of 10 cubic
yards per acre. This season we have had a ton of limestone mixed in for every
10 yards of compost. Limestone provides calcium, which is very important for
the soil and soil life. Limestone does raise the pH, which is something we do
not need. The alternative source of calcium, however, is mined Gypsum, which
also contains sulfur. We already have plenty of sulfur in the soil, so
limestone is a better option for us. The priority is to provide plenty of
calcium so the cells of the plants will grow well.
Roberto spreads the compost, and Ramon follows with the cultivator to incorporate it into the soil as quickly as possible to lose the minimum of nutrients to the air…