From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Portland, CT

That's what I'm doing to raise my CEC. Leaves and grass seem to be the most economic and effective way to raise CEC. I'm also going to add as much vermiculite as I feel comfortable buying.

11/12/2025 10:43:11 AM

East Coast, USA

20% loss isn't too bad for me though, mostly Nitrogen loss between now and spring. So I'm good with adding amendments now so I have time to retest and fine tune.. I can work with my 15 CEC, but it's not ideal. I bought a leaf vaccum on FB Marketplace, lol...

11/12/2025 11:17:21 AM

Australia [email protected]

What is your cec do you need to raise it or could you grow in it

11/12/2025 1:56:56 PM

Grittyville, WA

Interesting. Dont know how compressed that 40 cubic yards of leaves is... how many tons do you figure? When I put a dump truck load of dirty dairy hay on one patch, it did raise the CEC from 15 to 25 just like you are trying to do. The OM ended up at around 20% but I think thats ok as long as the OM is composted to the point it isnt stealing nutrients or oxygen.

11/12/2025 4:24:53 PM

East Coast, USA

Dale, I can grow in what I have. I just have to keep an eye on my nutrients. They could leach out quicker.

11/12/2025 6:02:44 PM

Australia [email protected]

Sorry just noticed 15 cec that is to me really good I am 12 been lowering mine over the years

11/13/2025 1:58:18 PM

East Coast, USA

You’re lowering your CEC? Can I ask why? I was thinking more is better.

11/13/2025 6:20:54 PM

Australia [email protected]

Depends on your situation I crowned my patch. And added lots of coal ash and coarse sand my cec wasn't high to start with I did it for drainage because I have sprinklers to cool the patch sometimes three to four times a day through summer plus I use it for additional fertiliser

11/14/2025 2:01:13 PM

East Coast, USA

Oh. I see.. Thanks

11/14/2025 2:09:06 PM