Gypsum?

[Needaclue]

Anyone have experience using gypsum on their lawn? My neighbor suggested it because of thin patches here and there. Says the dirt is hard as a rock and water isn't getting to the roots. Says it will help loosen the soil. 5 years ago the lawn was desert. I live in southern Cal. Does this make sense?

[HayZee518]

gypsum or vermiculite can be used to "soften" hard soil. or a coarse sand can be mixed into the topsoil. it doesn't contribute any "food" to the soil it just makes the soil more pliable. burnt limestone may do the same but increases the alkalinity of the soil.

[mhgcsuper]

actually gypsum is full of calcium and sulphur. Sulphur is what lowers your pH but the calcium is a very essential plant food. To off set the pH just add lime as well once a year. Gypsum works great to loosen heavy soils. But you will need fertilizer in those areas to promote lateral turf growth.