Asked on Jan 11, 2014
When to introduce lime into soil
by
Karen Epps
+5
i put up raised bed last year,and trying to build up soil .I need to know when to put lime in the soil? I lve in the midwest(missouri) and its Jan11th,the weather is in high 40's today thought i would work on the soil ,shouldnt i till some in now? Thanks for all input
6 answers
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You need to get a soil test before you add any amendments for the maximum crop yield. Contact your local extension office (found under government in the phone book). They can provide you with a soil testing kit with directions on how to use it. You can take the samples and send it to your state lab for analysis. The fee is nominal, it's $10 here in VA. That will give you a detailed picture of exactly which amendments you need and how much. And your extension agent can answer any questions you might have on that, that service is free you already pay for it with your tax dollars. There are also commercial kits available from many of the big box store, the results are not as detailed, but can give you a good idea on the best way to proceed. If you just put in that raised bed last year and used good soil, I doubt you'll need to add much of anything.
Catherine Smith
on Jan 12, 2014
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Please do follow Catherine's advice and get a soil test. A basic test in Missouri costs $10 and samples should be submitted to you local extension office. You can find the one closest to you here: http://extension.missouri.edu/directory/Places.aspx
Douglas Hunt
on Jan 12, 2014
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Thanks so much! i love Hometalk.....
Karen Epps
on Jan 12, 2014
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I've been in the dirt business for too long !! LOL You an lime the soil any time !! Mostly done in the spring or when your planting grass. Too sweet soil is not a problem with grass, you can tell by looking at the grass if it needs lime.
Grant Enterprises South
on Jan 12, 2014
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As to gardening a soil test is a good idea, and your tomato plants like acid soil so no lime around them. Evergreens also don't like sweet soil. Lime really is used to sweeten the soil.
Grant Enterprises South
on Jan 12, 2014
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You win but the powdered stuff gets in the soil quicker !! Don't think it takes that long to work. Don't recommend trying to spread the ground lime in windy weather helps to stop it from getting all over you.
Grant Enterprises South
on Jan 13, 2014
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