How Should Dolomite Lime Be Applied?

Last updated on August 28th, 2022 at 09:54 am

Whether the lawn is bright green and grows densely depends largely on the soil and its condition. If over time the substrate becomes more and more acidic and poor in nutrients, then the grasses will not grow nicely. With the help of the dolomite lime, this problem can be solved immediately. However, before sprinkling, a soil analysis should be carried out to determine the pH and the amount of lime needed.

Composition


Dolomitic lime occurs as a rock in the soil all over the world, the mining areas are not only in the Dolomites. Chemically, the mineral belongs to the group of limestones, but the rock type is much harder and also more brittle. Since contact with acid causes only a very delayed reaction in the mineral, it is ideal for acidic soils. Soils that are too acidic become compacted over time and the plants growing in them are no longer optimally supplied with nutrients. In addition, the use of the dolomite lime promotes aeration of the soil and the circulation of water. Due to its composition, mineral fertilizer is also an important source of nutrients for the garden.

  • Hardly soluble lime rock
  • Is extracted from dolomite rock
  • Is on offer as granular and ground mineral fertilizer
  • Contains high levels of calcium and magnesium
  • Is also called carbonic acid lime
  • Invigorates and activates the lawn
  • Regulates the acidity of the soil
  • Develops its effect very slowly and gently

Application

How Should Dolomite Lime Be Applied?


The application of dolomite lime is especially useful if the location of the lawn is in a region with a lot of acid rain. In addition, the composition of the watering water from the tap plays an important role, the

See also  Can I Grow A Ginger Plant From The Root?

Limestone can compensate for water that is too soft with a low lime content. In this context, the mineral leads to the improvement of soil conditions and also acts as a fertilizer. In addition, it prevents the spread of moss, weeds and other undesirable plants in the lawn. If the soil is particularly rich in humus, its effectiveness is improved in the long term. For the correct dosage of the mineral fertilizer, the soil should be examined before application. Ideal for this purpose is a professional soil analysis, which provides accurate information about the condition of the soil. If there are deficiencies and signs of fatigue in the soil, they can be compensated with the help of the dolomite lime.

  1. First prepare the soil sufficiently
  2. Remove moss cushions, weeds and dead plant parts
  3. Remove stones and roots scattered in the lawn
  4. Rake up withered and dried leaves
  5. Scarify lawn before use
  6. Use rake and spade to apply the agent
  7. Wear gloves for protection
  8. Spread mineral fertilizer holistically and widely
  9. Then work well into the soil
  10. In depth of about 5-8 cm mix with substrate
  11. mix
  12. Deeper digging or undermining is not necessary
  13. Effective already after a few days

Use in lawn

Dolomitkalk

To improve the soil properties and structure, the lawn needs lime from time to time. Then the grass shines a long-lasting beautiful green and grows as a dense carpet. Above all, the magnesium contained in dolomitic lime promotes a rich shade of green, as it sustainably supports the build-up of chlorophyll.

In addition, the grasses depend on the correct pH value in the soil. If the soil is too acidic, the lawn should be limed immediately. However, under no circumstances should the pH value permanently drift into an alkaline range. Therefore, a prior soil analysis is of great importance to determine the timing and the amount of lime. After the first application of the dolomite lime, moss and weeds will disappear on their own, as these undesirable plants prefer highly acidic soils.

  • Optimal pH values in the soil are between 5.5 and 6.5.
  • Dosage amount depends on the soil condition
  • Per 100 square meters about 8-18 kg should be sprinkled
  • 8 kg is sufficient for light and sandy soils.
  • Medium-heavy soils tolerate up to 13 kg
  • Heavy and loamy soils need up to 18 kg
  • Use a significantly higher dosage of reconditioning lime
See also  Rhododendron: What Are Common Diseases


Note: Ideally, the mineral should be worked into the freshly dug-up area, even before the first sowing of the lawn grasses.

The right time


In general, dolomitic lime can be used all year round. However, it is not easy to apply during the winter months when temperatures are below freezing, as the ground is often frozen. At the beginning of the growing season, the mineral fertilizer can develop its effect in an extremely short time and accelerate the growth of the lawn. The later in the year the lime is applied, the better it can be used to combat the troublesome moss. If it has not rained for a long time and the soil is extremely dry, then lime should not be applied. Otherwise, there is a risk that the lawn will dry out even more. In addition, the lime can cause unsightly burns to the lawn grasses when exposed to direct sunlight.

  • Carry out maintenance lime treatment approximately every two to three years.
  • In the case of extremely acidic soils, sprinkle annually
  • The ideal time to apply lime is in the spring
  • Late summer and fall are also possible
  • When liming, the soil should be slightly dry
  • Ideal is an overcast sky, with rain expected
  • In rainy weather the mineral dissolves directly
  • Without rainfall, water extensively after liming


Tip: The lime should not be applied at the same time with manure as fertilizer. Otherwise, the nitrogen contained in the manure will suddenly escape into the air without enriching the soil.

See also  Larkspur : How To Plant And Care For It

Author

  • James Jones

    Meet James Jones, a passionate gardening writer whose words bloom with the wisdom of an experienced horticulturist. With a deep-rooted love for all things green, James has dedicated his life to sharing the art and science of gardening with the world. James's words have found their way into countless publications, and his gardening insights have inspired a new generation of green thumbs. His commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship shines through in every article he crafts.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Gardeninguru