Liming

Liming to a pH of 6.0 to 6.5 or higher provides an ideal environment for bacteria in soils and increases the supply of soil phosphorus available to plants. Agricultural liming materials include limestone (both calcitic and dolomitic), burned lime, slaked lime, marl, shells, and by-products like sugar beet lime and sludge from water treatment plants. In Minnesota, liming materials are analyzed and sold on the basis of Effective Neutralizing Power (ENP). Discover how to determine the need for lime and decide on the appropriate lime material.

Liming materials for Minnesota soils

A look into what liming materials are and how to assess for:

• Limestone quality.

• Variety of liming materials.

• Dolomitic versus calcitic materials.

• Economic considerations.

• The Lime Law in Minnesota.

Lime needs in Minnesota

View general guidelines for lime in Minnesota soils, including how to determine if the need for lime and why lime is so important for soil.