Adding alkaline to soil can be done by applying a material that contains lime. Lime is commonly used because it contains calcium, magnesium, or both, which are alkaline components that can help raise the pH of the soil. There are a few different types of lime that can be used, including agricultural lime, dolomite lime, and hydrated lime.
Agricultural lime, also known as garden lime or agricultural limestone, is the most commonly used type of lime for raising soil pH. It is made from crushed limestone or chalk and is rich in calcium carbonate. When applied to the soil, agricultural lime reacts with water and soil acids to release calcium ions, which help to neutralize acidic soil and raise the pH.
Dolomite lime is similar to agricultural lime, but it also contains magnesium carbonate. This can be beneficial if your soil is deficient in magnesium. Dolomite lime can help raise the pH and provide a source of both calcium and magnesium.
Hydrated lime, also known as slaked lime, is another option for raising soil pH. It is made by treating quicklime (calcium oxide) with water. Hydrated lime is more concentrated than agricultural lime and can raise the pH more quickly. However, it should be used with caution as it can be more caustic and can potentially burn plants if not applied properly.
To add alkaline to your soil, follow these steps:
1. Test your soil: Before adding lime, it is important to test the pH of your soil. You can use a soil testing kit or send a sample to a laboratory for analysis. This will help you determine how much lime you need to add and the type of lime that is most suitable for your soil.
2. Determine the amount of lime needed: The amount of lime required will depend on the current pH of your soil and the desired pH level. The soil test results will provide recommendations on how much lime to apply per square foot or per acre. It is important to follow these recommendations to avoid over-liming the soil, which can have negative effects on plant growth.
3. Choose the type of lime: Based on your soil test results, choose the type of lime that is recommended. Agricultural lime is the most commonly used type, but dolomite lime or hydrated lime may be suitable depending on your soil’s specific needs.
4. Apply the lime: Lime should be applied evenly over the soil surface. It can be spread by hand or using a spreader for larger areas. It is important to wear protective gloves and a mask when handling lime, as it can be caustic to the skin and respiratory system.
5. Incorporate the lime: Once the lime is applied, it should be incorporated into the soil. This can be done by tilling or mixing it into the top few inches of soil. Watering the soil after incorporating the lime can help to activate its effects.
6. Monitor and retest: After applying lime, it is important to monitor the soil pH periodically to ensure it remains within the desired range. Retesting the soil every few years is recommended to make any necessary adjustments.
In my personal experience, I have used agricultural lime to raise the pH of acidic soil in my garden. I followed the soil test recommendations and applied the lime as directed. Over time, I noticed an improvement in plant growth and overall health. However, it is important to note that adding lime is not a one-time fix and may need to be repeated periodically based on the needs of your soil.
