How Much Lime to Add?

[rw]

I live in Mass and recently had my soil tested at a pH of 5.1. I had spread lime in the Spring but apparently it wasn't enough. How much should I add and when is the best time to apply it.

Note: I would at some point this season like to fertilize and overssed areas of the lawn.

[Steveo]

50 lbs per 1000 sg ft. You can do it now.

[Stubby]

Did you use "Lime" from a big box store? If so, I'll bet use really used pelletized limestone. Limestone is not very reactive -- we use it for statues, buildings and pyramids. Try using hydrated lime from a tile supply store. Avoid anhydrous lime as it will "burn" you and your lawn unless done very carefully.

[Himanshu]

How much did you apply in Spring? Usual maximum at any one time is 50 lbs per 1,000 sq ft. My pH was similar to yours, in the 5.2 - 5.4 range between the front and back yards. I put down about 40 lbs/1000 sq ft in the spring and I plan to put some 50 lbs/1000 again this fall. You have to add a good amount to have it raise it from 5.1 to say 6.

From what I understand, you have to get the lime into the soil, so for best results either you do it when you dethatch/aerate, or you have to work it into the soil when you amend it.

Lime application should help since it will raise the pH to a level good for the grass and poorer for weeds. I overseeded the same day as I added lime.

-- Himanshu

[trader4]

"Lime application should help since it will raise the pH to a level good for the grass and poorer for weeds. I overseeded the same day as I added lime. "

Most weeds and turf grasses thrive in the same range of PH.

[rw]

I probably only added about 20 - 25 lbs per 1000 sq ft. At the time I didn't know the pH, but based on the previous owners I knew I need to add lime (was worried about burning the lawn).

I plan to aerate, overseed, and of course add lime in the early fall. Good to know I can do it all on the same day/weekend.

Appreciate the response. Thanks.

[ds549]

your county extension office can tell you.