LIME & LIMING LAWNS |
| INTRODUCTION |
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| FORMS OF LIME | |
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Generally speaking, the finer the particle size of lime the faster it will have an affect on soil pH. Particle size is indicated on the label as what percentage will pass through a certain "mesh" size. |
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Pelletized Some lime products are powders that are turned into pellets for ease of application and much less mess. We use and recommend this form of lime. |
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Powder Lime powders, while less expensive than pelletized products, can be very messy and difficult to spread. Many have a "dusty" consistency like that of baking flour. |
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| TYPES OF LIME | |
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There are several types of lime available but we recommend only using the less caustic agricultural forms of lime such as Dolomite Lime or Calcium Carbonate. Remember that 'pelletized' products are much easier to apply. |
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Calcium
Carbonate The most commonly available and least expensive lime product is probably Calcium Carbonate in the powder form. |
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Dolomite
Lime In addition to containing Calcium, dolomitic lime also contains a higher percentage of Magnesium than calcitic limestone. If calcium and magnesium levels are low, use this type of lime. |
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Hydrated
and burned lime Both types are generally considered unsatisfactory for use on lawn areas. If used for other applications, be sure to read and follow label instructions. |
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| CALCIUM CARBONATE EQUIVALENT | |
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The CCE provides a yardstick for comparison of various lime products. Limestone recommendations are based on a neutralizing action equal to 100% calcium carbonate limestone. Use the formula below for calculating the amount of lime to use:
Lime material
required equals: |
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| APPLICATION OF LIME | |
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Lime moves very slowly down through the soil profile so it is best to mix recommended amounts with the soil using a rototiller or similar device. When applying lime to an established lawn, it is beneficial to apply lime in conjunction with core aeration, using a machine that pulls out soil plugs. General recommendations call for separating lime applications from fertilizer applications by at least two weeks. Even though fall is often prescribed as the ideal time of the year to lime, due to the freezing and thawing action of soil over winter, lime can actually be applied anytime of the year. Always read and follow label directions! |
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| Other related pages: | |
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