Limit lime to 50 lbs per 1,000 sq ft per application

What to Do

When applying lime to correct acidic soil, never exceed 50 lbs of ground limestone per 1,000 sq ft in a single application on an established lawn. If your soil test recommends more, split it into multiple applications spaced 3-6 months apart.

Why It Works

Excessive lime in a single application can burn grass, temporarily spike pH too high, and create nutrient imbalances. Cornell Extension emphasizes that it is much easier to raise pH than to lower it — overdoing lime creates a problem that is harder to fix than the original acidity.

Tips

• Apply after core aeration for better soil penetration.
• Water lightly after application to start moving lime into the soil.
• Dolomitic limestone adds both calcium and magnesium, which is beneficial if your soil is also low in magnesium.
• Retest pH 3-6 months after each application before applying more.