Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
does not tell you how much to add. The amount of lime needed will be determined by a pH
buffer test.
Lime, which is a base, will raise the pH (decrease the acidity). It may need to be added
every 2 to 20 years, depending on leaching. Adding lime is especially important where
there is 25 inches or more of rain per year, which can leach lime and minerals out of soil
and leave it acid. Lime can be added on top (even over snow), but tilling it in is much bet-
ter. For this reason, address soil pH issues prior to planting. In contrast to lime, nitrogen
fertilizers increase soil acidity.
FERTILIZING
If a soil test indicates the need for additional nutrients, fertilizer containing specific ratios
of nitrogen, potassium, and/or phosphorus can be added. Fertilizing can get seedlings off to
a vigorous start, ensure consistently higher yields, and help plants withstand stresses from
insects and winterkill. Nitrogen increases plant growth. A productive, established pasture
might require 100 to 180 pounds per acre of nitrogen per year. Remember that legumes,
such as alfalfa, fix their own nitrogen in their root nodules, so they require little or no ni-
trogen application compared to grasses.
