Lime begins to react with the soil as soon as it is applied. The reaction, however, is slower than that obtained with most fertilizer materials. A single application of lime should be effective for three to four years. It is important to remember that this is a dynamic process and at the pH may vary from test to test after lime is applied. Liming materials come in a variety of forms, each with its own value and potential problems.
Lime is available as calcitic lime, dolomitic lime, burned lime, hydrated lime, and pelletized lime.
Calcitic lime is mined from natural limestone bedrock deposits. Crushed and pulverized rock is run through various sized screens to meet certain specifications. This materials is generally labeled as either ground or pulverized limestone. Depending on the quality of the bedrock, the material has an 85 to 100 percent neutralizing value. In addition to raising the soil pH, the material also supplies calcium, an element essential for growth.