What is liming?
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- Advisor: Ecobalance
- Posted on: July 15th 2009
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Home and Garden
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WHAT IS LIMING?
Liming neutralizes soil acidity which in turn enhances nutrient availability and uptake. This results in a healthier and deeper rooted grass.
WHY DO SOILS BECOME ACID?
Following are the major causes of soil acidity:
Nitrogen fertilization
Organic matter decomposition by microbial activity
Root respiration
WHY LIME?
Liming is necessary to:
Neutralize soil acidity
Supply magnesium, an essential mineral for green grass.
Improve fertilizer availability and uptake to plants (especially phosphorus which contributes to root development).
Enhance deep rooting.
Improve resistance to disease and drought
Improve lawn thickness
Enhance greening
Stimulate growth of microorganisms.
Encourage thatch decomposition.
Promote deeper rooting, which reduces compaction. This will result in improved growth.Acid soil weakens the grass which allows for more weed encroachment.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD THE SOIL BE LIMED?
The ideal soil pH is between 6.5 and 7. Do not rely on old soil test results to decide on liming. Every year, Nutrite will measure your soil pH for free. The presence of moss or mushrooms in your soil does not necessarily indicate acid soil.