Return to the Container Gardening Forum | Post a Follow-Up

 o
Lime in potting soil mix

Posted by bkay2000 8a TX (My Page) on
Fri, Mar 30, 12 at 10:42

I have a recipe from this list that I got on the Hosta forum that calls for lime. I haven't been adding it.

As I understand it, lime makes for a more alkaline mix. Do I have this right?

Our water is alkaline, so wouldn't I want to skip the lime?

bkay


Follow-Up Postings:

 o
RE: Lime in potting soil mix

Depends on several factors. First, you don't mention the components of the mix. If it's heavy on the bark and peat, the pH will be low. By way of example, I mixed up an 8:1:1:1 blend of pine bark, peat, turface and perlite and the pH tested out to 5.4. If the mix is comprised of ingredients with a closer-to-neutral natural pH, then you may not require lime.

Alkaline irrigation water will raise the pH over time, but it shouldn't be viewed as a substitute for lime when you wish to adjust your substrate pH in relatively short order.


 o
RE: Lime in potting soil mix

This is the one I'm using for hosta:

3 parts pine bark fines
1 part sphagnum peat (not reed or sedge peat)
1-2 parts perlite
garden lime
controlled release fertilizer
micro-nutrient powder (substitute: small amount of good, composted manure

Thanks,

bkay


 o
RE: Lime in potting soil mix

I'd definitely add the lime.


 o Post a Follow-Up

Please Note: Only registered members are able to post messages to this forum.

    If you are a member, please log in.

    If you aren't yet a member, join now!


Return to the Container Gardening Forum

Instructions

  • You must be a registered member and logged in to post messages on our forums.
  • Posting is a two-step process. Once you have composed your message, you will be taken to the preview page. You will then have a chance to review the contents and make changes.
  • After posting your message, you may need to refresh the forum page in order to see it.
  • It is illegal to post copyrighted material without the owner's consent.
  • HTML codes are allowed in the message field only.
  • No advertising is allowed in any of the forums.
  • If you would like to practice posting or uploading photos, please visit our Test forum.
  • If you need assistance, please Contact Us and we will be happy to help.



 
Click here to learn more about in-text links on this page.