What is the best way to correct Low Magnesium in soil...I had my soil tested and the results came back "VERY LOW"
On very acidic soils, use crushed dolomite stone (magnesium carbonate). On more neutral or alkaline soils, use magnesium sulfate (epsom salts).
Magnesium Sulfate... is it high in chloride or salt....how long does it take to move into the soil with rainfall?
No chloride. It is a salt in the chemical definition of the term (i.e., a metal ion combined with an acid radicle), but does not contain any salt in the 'traditional' sense of sodium chloride. It is very soluble and will disperse into the soil fairly quickly (and maybe even leach out a bit too quickly).
Finally a simple explanation to the question about Epsom SALTS changing the ph of soils and its chemical make up. Thanks.
The magnesium in dolomite tends to dissolve in about 6 months (reference from Whitcomb "Plant Production in Containers")...the calcium continues to release for many years by comparison. This may or may not be okay, like if you want to lime every year anyway. Other long term magnesium sources hereabouts include K-Mag (a natural mined product with probably other trace nutrients, but will bump up the potassium levels, may or may not be good based on your soil test), and Pro-Mag (a 1:1 blend of magnesium sulphate and magnesium oxide...both the quick fix of the sulphate, plus a very slow even supply from the low solubility oxide form). Other details of your soil test might help to make the best choice for you...esp current calcium and potassium levels.
Potassium tested: "MEDIUM" and calcium "VERY HIGH" in my soil test. So, yeah...KMAG would be a good choice too logically.
