Tips to apply lime on your lawn

The application of lime is a cultural practice that should be prioritized in the same way as aeration. However, before proceeding to this step, it is important to make sure that your lawn is fertile. Good fertilization is the basis of a beautiful, healthy lawn. To ensure that your lawn receives the necessary care, do not hesitate to contact the Vertdure branch closest to you.

What is lime?

Lime is a derivative of limestone and is used in agriculture and gardening to balance the acidity of the soil. Lime is available in granules or powder. It is spread on grass that does not grow well.

Why is it recommended to apply lime on your lawn?

The weather in certain areas of heavy precipitation, as well as a repetitive culture, cause the soil to become acidic over time. Grass does not tolerate this acidity, which leads to a series of problems:

• The roots are not able to absorb nutrients from the soil properly
• Grass growth is significantly reduced 
• The grass stops being uniform and holes can begin to appear
• Development of mosses and fungi

The application of lime (a product rich in calcium) reduces the acidity and brings the soil pH closer to neutrality, a level that optimizes the action of fertilizers and the absorption of nutrients.

By balancing the pH of the soil, the application of lime offers many advantages:

• It maximizes the efficiency of fertilizers. Your lawn will get better nutrition and will be able to absorb the nutrients it needs more easily.
• It stimulates deeper grass root growth. Deep rooting will promote the health of your lawn.
• It promotes the development of microorganisms in the soil.
• It limits the growth of weeds. The application of lime increases the resistance of the lawn to stress factors (diseases, drought, etc.).
• It improves the density of the lawn and promotes its greening.

When is the best time of the year to apply lime?

The best times of the year to spread lime on the lawn are in the early spring and late fall. However, you can apply lime at a different time of the year if you think your lawn needs a little boost.

Just make sure you never apply lime when your lawn is dry or dormant. It is also recommended to ventilate the lawn before applying it.

How to apply lime on your lawn?

The first step before applying lime is to determine the soil pH. This will determine the limestone amendment that will be applied to the soil. The ideal pH is between 6.0 and 7.0. The pH must be neutral or slightly alkaline for the grass to grow smoothly.

Before adding lime, it is recommended to aerate the soil to remove dead grasses and moss that have formed. This step facilitates the ventilation of the soil and accelerates the calcification process.

Here are two tips for airing properly:

• Check the weather and choose a hot, humid day that will be more conducive to soil regeneration. The foam layer will be drier, making it easier to remove.
• Make sure the soil is not too dry or soaked

Once we have determined the pH of the soil and finished aerating the lawn, we can apply lime. It is important to distribute it evenly to avoid build-up that could burn the grass. You can apply it by hand, but a spreader will help you achieve optimal and uniform results. The type of lime must be selected according to the nature of the soil:

• Agricultural lime, its rapid action makes it the ideal ally for clayey and moist soils
• Dolomite lime is used for clay soils
• Crushed limestone, its slow action is ideal for sandy soils

If you have any questions regarding the application of lime, do not hesitate to call Vertdure and we will be happy to advise you. We can also check the pH of your soil and aerate it for you to ensure the best possible results.