With the warm weather starting to arrive, it’s time to think about liming your grass. It only needs to be applied every couple of years if your soil is acid.
Lime Test
Southern Living says “the best way to tell if you need lime is with a soil test, which will let you know exactly how much to apply.
If you are not able to test your soil, then use the general guideline of 15 to 20 pounds of lime per 100 square feet of your lawn. White-powered lime is the messier alternative. Try the pelletized lime. It is easier to apply.
pH Balance
The soil supporting your lawn must be in balance which is measured by pH or acidity. If your soil is too low on the pH scale, adding lime can help restore the balance and promote a healthier lawn.
Why Use Lime?
The most common method of changing pH of the soil is by adding lime. Soil pH is a measure of a soil alkalinity or acidity. A pH of 7.0 is neutral. Anything below 7.0 is acidic, and anything above is alkaline. Most lawns grow best with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. If a soil tests lower than 5.5, it likely will benefit from added lime.
Excessive rainfall or irrigation, the use of some nitrogen fertilizers, and acidic water sources can cause an imbalance of pH. Low pH affects microbial activity in soil, making nutrients less available to grass and other plants. As a result, turf declines. Common symptoms of low pH include loss of color, reduced vigor and diminished ability to recover from heat and drought stress.
Right Time to Apply Lime?
Any time of the year that the soil isn’t frozen but it is most common during spring or fall. Aerating the lawn first and then applying the lime aid absorption and allows the lime to reach deeper into the soil.
Houseman is the only complete service company in the Athens, GA area. We provide weed control, fertilization, shrub care, mulch & pine straw, sod, annual plantings, irrigation, and commercial & residential lawn maintenance. We are also state certified and licensed in wood destroying organisms (termite control), household pest control, public heath, and turf & ornamental weed control. We are licensed to control and treat mosquitoes, termites, all pest problems and turf & ornamental weed control. Contact the professionals at Houseman Services and set up a free inspection of your yard. We have been servicing homes and businesses in the Athens, Clarke County area since 1985!