Will this slow the leaching of Potassium from my soil?

Question

I was recently given some bags of refined Kaolin clay. I read an article which said that Potassium attaches itself to clay granules, will mixing ground Potassium Sulfate powder (Less than 2 microns) with the Kaolin which is also less than 2 microns help the Potassium stay in the top soil longer? I have very sandy soil with pH of 5, the local farmers tell me it is deficient of Potassium. I have added stacks of manure to the soil which I know will help. I have been given 40 kgs of Potash and I would like to get the best out of it.

Answer 1

Clay is the smallest of soil particles.It is like sheets of paper, and sticks together like them in a heavy clay soil.The shape gives it the maximum surface area of soil particles for water and nutrients to attach to,so yes it is very beneficial to improve potassium or any nutrients longer retention in a very sandy soil.

Answer 2

I have never heard of adding clay to improve soil.  I think a professional soil test would help you a lot.  Surely your county will do it for a nominal fee.  Usually compost is added to improve sandy soil.  Clay plus sand will give you concrete.