Some established lawns require an application of sulfur or lime to maintain a neutral soil pH. A range of 6.0 to 7.0 pH is required for a successful lawn. When soil is too acid or alkaline, the nutrients in the soil become unavailable to grasses because soil microbes become inactive. A soil test is the best way to determine the pH of your soil. See your County Extension Agent for information.

Acidic soils, often lacking in calcium and magnesium, are common in most of the Eastern states. The most popular kind of lime for lawns is pulverized dolomitic limestone, which provides both of those minerals. Lime is very slow acting and is best applied in the fall once every two to three years. You can apply it with a mechanical spreader.

To lower the pH of an alkaline soil, lightly apply pure powdered sulfur, cottonseed meal, or gypsum (calcium sulfate) to your lawn.

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C.R.S., Inc. · Spokane, Washington · USA