When and How to Add Lime to a Garden in Fall
Add lime in fall, at least 3 months before planting, and only at the rate your soil test gives. Work it into the top 6 inches and water it in. Skip it for...
Published by ThriveThyme
lime soil ph soil test fall garden
When and How to Add Lime to a Garden in Fall
Add lime in fall, and only if a soil test says your pH is low. Lime reacts slowly, so apply it at least 3 months before planting. Spread the amount on your soil report, work it into the top 6 inches, and water it in.
Check whether you need it with the Soil Test Desk.
Why Fall
- Lime changes soil pH slowly. NC State Extension says to apply it a minimum of three months before planting. University of Georgia Extension says 2 to 3 months.
- Pelletized dolomitic limestone can take several months to dissolve fully (Clemson HGIC). Faster-acting limestone costs more and does not last as long.
- Early spring crops such as peas and spinach go in as soon as soil thaws. Fall lime is the only way it is ready for them.
Before You Start
- Get a soil test. See how to take a garden soil sample.
- Read the lime recommendation. See how to read your soil test results. It is based on your pH, your buffer pH, and the crops you listed.
- Check the crop list below. Some crops should not get lime.
How to Apply Lime
- Pick a day with dry soil and little wind.
- Weigh or measure the amount the lab gave you for your bed area. Do not round up.
- Spread it evenly over bare soil. A drop spreader works for large beds. Wear a dust mask and eye protection.
- For the fastest result, till it in or dig it in with a fork to the rooting depth, around 6 inches (NC State Extension).
- Water it in.
- Write down the date and the rate. Retest in a year or two.
Lime and Your Crops
| Crop or bed | Lime? |
|---|---|
| Most vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, brassicas, onions, greens) | Yes, if pH is below about 6.0 to 6.2 |
| Asparagus | Yes, if pH is below about 6.2 to 6.8 |
| White potatoes prone to scab | No. Lime favors scab. If you need it, apply after the potato harvest and before other crops in the rotation (Rutgers) |
| Blueberries | No. They want pH 4.5 to 5.5 |
| Beds already at pH 6.5 or higher | No |
How Long It Lasts
The effect fades. NC State Extension says to retest and reapply every three years or so. Sandy soil and heavy rainfall lose lime faster.
If Your pH Is Too High
Do not add lime. Lower pH only if the lab recommends it. Elemental sulfur is the usual material, and it works slowly because soil microbes have to convert it. Apply it in fall for the same reason. See the Soil Test Desk for which crops tolerate a higher pH.
Next Steps
Add compost after liming, following how to use compost and manure in fall beds. Sow a cover crop if a sow window is still open.