Lime Usage - Knowledgebase Question

Worcester, MA
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Question by moecash
July 1, 2001
What plants need lime and how much?


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Answer from NGA
July 1, 2001
The answer to your question depends on the soil and can only be determined by testing the soil's pH. Many plants will tolerate a wide range of soil from acid to alkaline, others have a specific preference for one or the other. A common example is that azaleas and rhododendrons and blueberries require an acid soil and so should never be limed. Lawn grasses however often benefit from an application or two of lime every few years to keep the soil pH closer to neutral. One application lasts for a long time so it may not be an annual need. I would suggest you run some basic soil tests and work from there, being careful to make any changes somewhat gradually so as not to shock existing plants. Your UMASS extension should be able to assist you with the tests and interpreting the results. Finally, I apologize for the delay in answering your question.

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