Soil pH Adjustment Calculator
Raise pH (Add Lime)
Calculate lime needed to raise soil pH
Lower pH (Add Sulfur)
Calculate sulfur needed to lower soil pH
Formula
Lime (lbs) = (Area/1000) × pH Change × Lbs per 1000 sq ft per pH point | Sulfur: Sandy 10, Loam 20, Clay 30 lbs per 1000 sq ft per pH point
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I raise soil pH?
Add agricultural lime (ground limestone) to raise pH. Sandy soil needs about 25 lbs per 1000 sq ft per pH point, loam needs 50 lbs, and clay needs 75 lbs. Apply in fall and work into the top 6 inches. Dolomitic lime also adds magnesium.
How do I lower soil pH?
Add elemental sulfur: 10 lbs per 1000 sq ft per pH point for sandy soil, 20 lbs for loam, 30 lbs for clay. Aluminum sulfate works faster but at 6x the rate. Peat moss and pine needles provide gradual acidification.
What pH do most vegetables prefer?
Most vegetables grow best at pH 6.0-7.0, with 6.5 being ideal. Blueberries need 4.5-5.5. Potatoes prefer 5.0-6.0. Asparagus tolerates 6.5-8.0. Test your soil before planting and amend as needed.
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