How to Add Lime to the Soil

The pH of the soil in a given area measures how alkaline or acidic it is. Sandy soils or clay soils are known for being naturally acidic and having a low pH. This is ideal if you are trying to grow acid-loving plants such as rhododendrons or azaleas, but can hinder the progress of plants that thrive in a neutral or alkaline environment, such as corn or beans. The pH of the soil can be raised, making it less acidic, by adding dolomite limestone, or lime, to the soil.

• 1

  Analyze your soil with a testing kit to determine its pH level. The results of the test will help you determine how much lime to add to your soil per square foot of property.

• 2

  Time your application of lime appropriately. According to the University of Kentucky, lime can be applied at any time, but applying it in the fall allows the additive to work its way into the soil and be fully effective before planting the following spring. Lime can be added in the spring, though it is best apply it several weeks before planting to give the lime time to react with the soil and raise the pH.

• 3

  Till the soil where you want to apply the lime, breaking up the surface of the soil with the rototiller. Smash large dirt clods with a garden rake or shovel and remove rocks or debris. Rake the tilled soil, smoothing and leveling the surface.

• 4

  Place the limestone into the hopper of a push garden spreader. Adjust the settings of the spreader to correspond with the recommended lime application rates for your soil. In general, according to recommendations published by the Ohio State University Extension Office, never apply more than 50 lbs. of ground limestone per 1,000 square feet of land.

• 5

  Push the spreader across the tilled soil. Walk slowly, moving in a horizontal direction, spreading the lime in a thin, even layer. Apply a second coating of lime by moving in a vertical direction to ensure complete coverage.

• 6

  Till the area a second time to incorporate the lime into the soil.

• 7

  Water the application area thoroughly to help the soil absorb the limestone. This leads to a subsequent change in pH.