Liming prevents manganese toxicity. Normal levels of manganese in Mississippi can become toxic to plants if the soil pH is below 5.2. Finely ground limestone may react with the soil in 1 month, but it sometimes takes 3 months for full benefit. Dolomitic limestone can be used if low soil magnesium levels have been identified. Soil Testing Soil for vegetable fields should be sampled and sent to a laboratory for testing at least every other year.
Testing gives the vegetable producer information on the available nutrient level in the soil.
This information is necessary for proper liming and fertilization schedules. By Dr. David Nagel, Extension Horticulturist, Department of Plant and Soil Sciences. Publication 1977 Extension Service of Mississippi State University, cooperating with U.S. Department of Agriculture . Published in furtherance of Acts of Congress, May 8 and June 30, 1914. Copyright 2001 by Mississippi State University.