what does lime do for grass

what does lime do for grass

2 weeks ago 9
Nature

Lime benefits grass primarily by correcting soil acidity and improving nutrient availability. Here are the key effects lime has on grass:

  • Neutralizes acidic soil: Lime raises the soil pH by neutralizing excess acidity, which can inhibit grass growth. Most grasses thrive in a soil pH range of about 5.8 to 7.2, and lime helps maintain this balance
  • Improves nutrient availability: When soil pH is too low (acidic), essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, and copper become less available to grass. Lime restores nutrient availability by adjusting pH to optimal levels
  • Supplies calcium and magnesium: Lime adds important nutrients such as calcium and magnesium, which help maintain healthy grass color and growth and mitigate stress from drought, heat, or traffic
  • Enhances soil structure: Lime improves soil texture, moisture retention, and airflow, which promotes healthier root development and overall lawn vigor
  • Supports beneficial soil organisms: By reducing acidity, lime encourages microbial and earthworm activity that breaks down organic matter, releasing more nutrients for grass uptake
  • Increases grass productivity: Proper liming can increase grass yield significantly, for example, raising soil pH from 5.5 to 6.3 can boost grass production by at least one tonne per hectare annually

Signs your lawn may need lime include poor grass growth, yellow patches, slow turf recovery, and moss presence

. In summary, lime acts like an antacid for your lawn, balancing soil pH and supplying nutrients essential for lush, healthy grass growth

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