The rate of lime to apply is best determined with a soil test. Ideally, lime should be mixed with the bulk media several weeks before potting plants. This allows time for reaction to occur and establishes a better environment for plants to grow. Pelletized Lime Pelletized lime is a finely ground dolomitic source made into a pellet with a binding agent that disintegrates when exposed to water, thus releasing the encapsulated lime. This product has the same neutralizing value and supplies the same amount of calcium and magnesium as standard dolomitic lime.
Pelletized lime spreads well and is less dusty than conventional pulverized products.
Since nursery growers mix their own media, most prefer to use powdered lime. In addition to neutralizing soil acidity and supplying calcium and magnesium, lime promotes microbial activity required for converting some nutrients to forms that can be utilized by plants. They also enhance the breakdown of certain types of slow-release fertilizers. Microorganisms also enhance decomposition of organic matter, which provides essential nutrients for plant growth. For the cost, no other product can provide such an array of benefits.