How to Spread Lime

Liming your soil alters the pH range to fit the needs of specific plants. All grass, ornamental plants, trees and shrubs have different pH ranges necessary to absorb the soil's nutrients. Grass typically needs a pH range between 6.0 and 7.0, according to the University of Rhode Island. Landscape plants need a range between 6.5 and 7.4, according to Cornell University Cooperative Extension. Gardeners must figure out their existing soil pH to know whether their soils need lime and if so, how much to use.

Drop spreader
Rake
Hose
Shovel
Bucket
Container

Instructions

- 1
  Divide the amount of limestone you need to spread over the grass and flowerbed areas. Your existing soil's pH determines how much lime you need. For example, gardeners with a soil pH of 5.6 to 6.0 should spread 50 lb. of limestone per 1,000 square feet.
- 2
  Pour half of the amount of limestone you need for the yard into a drop spreader. A drop spreader reduces the amount of dust generated from the limestone.
- 3
  Push the drop spreader horizontally over the lawn or flowerbed. Walk slowly to ensure that you do not miss any areas.
- 4
  Add the rest of the limestone you need into the drop spreader. Push the drop spreader vertically over the yard to achieve an even spread. Go back over the lawn and smooth out any heavily distributed areas with a rake.
- 5
  Water the yard with 1 inch of water to allow the limestone to absorb into the soil. Limestone left on top of grass or other plants increases the risk of plants burning.

Kinds of Crabgrass

Grass That Will Grow on a Brick

Growing Grass