Food Plot pH and Antler Dirt
Filed under: Ask Grant, Food Plots
I just watched the video on Antler Dirt (GDTV 22). On my property I have heavy clay soil which would benefit from Antler Dirt, but I am concerned about ph issues. My ph is 7.2 naturally and Antler Dirt would possibly add to that. I have a local option but it’s not the quality of Antler Dirt. I have also found a good source of pelletized chicken litter that is only 6 miles away. Would this be a reasonable substitute? If so, how much can I use per acre?
Albert
Albert,
Yes, composted and humified litter could significantly improve the production of heavy clay soils. I believe Antler Dirt’s pH is very close to neutral. I’ve been applying Antler Dirt to some of my plots at The Proving Grounds for five years and the pH started in the low 5’s and has increased to 6.8 to 7.2 and has stabilized in that range. In addition, one of the great benefits of Antler Dirt is that it can be custom blended for specific sites.
Usually raw chicken litter has a pH of 8.0 to 8.2, depending on the bedding material, etc. I would certainly ask for an analysis of the raw litter, or collect a sample and have it analyzed. This would allow you to determine the benefits and other considerations of that product. Certainly having a source within six miles could be a huge benefit!
Growing Deer together,
Grant
