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Marshfield, Ma, USA

My soil sample dated 10/22/2003 had a dissapointing low ph of 6.2. I was advised by a local Agway representative to apply 200 pounds of lime to my 2400 sf area to bring the ph up to 7.0.This application took place on 11/25/2003.

A new sample dated 3/25/2004 reveals that the ph had risen to only 6.4. My question is, has the lime not had enough time to change the ph level? Should I be applying any more?

Ed Pappas
Maarshfield, Ma

3/29/2004 10:43:25 AM

San Diego

It can take 6 months or a little more for the ph to fully adjust, my guess is it will come up more in the spring as it warms up.

3/29/2004 1:02:58 PM

Montoursville, PA

Six point two is fine to do.....Test again in the fall and adjust then if the read is a little low. Many great pumpkins have grown on a little less than perfect as well as a little more than assumed perfect of 6.5 to 7/2.

3/29/2004 1:56:54 PM

In the shade - PDX, OR

Hi Ed - The amount of lime that you add directly corresponds to the buffer pH. The lab usually has a conversion chart that they use to make the recommendation.
I would double check with the lab to confirm that the recommendation was for the 2400 sqft. I know that A & L Labs normally makes their recommendations on either 1K sqft or 1 acre plots.

Additional question for you - Did you add any more manure, leaves or peat in conjunction with the lime?

Generally speaking, the pH is typically lower in the fall. This is due to the mineralization that occurs during the season.

Doc is right the 6.2 is no major deal so don't sweat it.
I'm not 100% sure on your time interval question. Might be different depending on the product that you used.

3/30/2004 12:35:42 AM

Marshfield, Ma, USA

Thanks for your help guys.

The recommendation was made by a local agricultural/feed store in lbs per 100 sf.

The time interval was approximately three months between the day the lime was applied, and the soil sample was anylyzed.

More manure and leaves had been added in the fall.

What is buffer ph in laymans terms?

Ed

4/1/2004 9:05:18 PM

In the shade - PDX, OR

This is the best article that I could find on buffer pH:

http://www.mysoil.com/support/library/ff/soil_buffer_ph.htm


Kind of a corny analogy w/ the coffee pot. Basically said clay soils have a higher buffering capacity than do sandy soils. = you'll need a lot more lime to change the pH if you are in clay vrs. sandy loam.


Grow 'em BIG Ed!

4/2/2004 2:27:13 AM