Lime - adjusting soil pH

Discussion in 'Beginner Lounge' started by greenthumbwhitethumb, May 19, 2010.

  1. greenthumbwhitethumb

    greenthumbwhitethumb down w the moral majority

    So I have 10 clones that are just showing signs of root, and I want to prepare the soil for them the right way. I have, in the recent past, had issues with pH and Ca/Mg deficiencies, so I want to add lime to my soil before I plant, as I was advised to do.

    My mix is equal parts compost, vermiculite, and peat moss. I know that peat moss lowers pH. The directions on the lime bag are for normal soil, not acidic peat moss mix.

    Soooo..... how much lime should I add to my mix? I will likely be growing in 2.5-3 gal pots....


    thanks a bundle!
    GTWT
    :XXhippylove:
     
  2. ResinRubber

    ResinRubber Civilly disobedient/Mod

    I'd go with 3-4 cups per cubic foot of mix.


    cheers,
     
  3. bigbudztoo

    bigbudztoo growin the good stuff

    Additional question along that subject.


    Is it ok to use hydrated horticultural lime in lieu of dolomitic ?


    Lime is lime, right ?


    As the hydrated lime is powdered , would the amount stay the same ?


    I am using about 2 cups per cubic foot of soil .


    Thanks


    Budz:anibong::anibong::anibong:
     
  4. ResinRubber

    ResinRubber Civilly disobedient/Mod

    Ground limestone or dolomitic lime are generally cheapest, dolomitic contains Mg carbonate (aids in N uptake) and neither are as caustic as hydrated lime. Hydrated lime is stronger and reacts more quickly. I'd use a third less hydrated lime than ground or dolomitic in any mix.


    All three work for gardening but be a little more cautious when working with the hydrated lime.


    cheers
     

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