It is important to realize that the pH scale is logarithmic, meaning that a pH of 5.5 is ten times more acid than 6.5 and a pH of 4.5 is 100 times more acid than 6.5. The natural pH of the Cumberland County area is 4.5 to 5.3, too acid for most crops, and so soils should be tested each 2-3 years for acidity as well as fertility. The pH determines how much lime is required. You must adjust the recommendation to the size of your garden plot. If your Soil Test Report recommends more than 60 lb. per 1000 ft. for surface application to lawns, it is advisable to divide the total amount into two applications, applied 4-6 weeks apart.
Dolomitic limestone is recommended.
Powdered lime should be used for incorporation into the soil, but either powdered or pelletized may be used for surface application. However, the length of time before receiving your results varies from two weeks in light periods to two months during late winter through spring, the busiest time for the lab. Testing is performed at the NC Department of Agriculture laboratory in Raleigh. We at the Cooperative Extension Service in Cumberland County have no control over the testing or reporting process, so there is no point in calling us to ask when your results may be expected. This information compiled by Cumberland County Master Gardeners.