Attaining this objective depends on application of proper amounts of lime and essential nutrients. Soil testing provides a means for determining lime and fertilizer rates. Lime neutralizes soil acidity and provides the calcium and magnesium essential for plant growth. There is no substitute for lime for neutralizing soil acidity. Lime also provides a better environment for microbial activity required for transforming nutrients to forms that plants can utilize.
Calcitic lime is composed of calcium carbonate and contains little or no magnesium.
Dolomitic lime is composed of a mixture of calcium and magnesium carbonates and contains a minimum of 120 lbs of magnesium per ton. For maximum benefit, mix recommended lime into the soil or media prior to planting. Wait 6 months before applying additional lime. The pH requirement for container and field-grown crops varies widely. Most field soils contain an adequate amount of micronutrients.