How to Raise the pH for Muscadines

Remove weeds and debris from the soil, and turn it over lightly with a shovel to break up soil clods.

Spread dolomitic lime over the soil surface in amounts that are in accordance with a soil test's results. In the absence of a soil test, follow these general rules: Apply 5 to 10 lb. of dolomitic lime for every half-scale interval you need to increase. Apply more dolomitic lime if the soil has heavy clay, less dolomitic lime if the soil is sandy. If, for example, your soil's pH is 5.5 and you want to raise it to 6.0, the ideal soil pH for Muscadines, then use 4 1/2 lb. of dolomitic lime for every 100 square feet of sandy soil, 7 1/2 lb. of dolomitic lime for every 100 square feet of loamy soil and 10 lb. of dolomitic lime for every 100 square feet of clay soil.

Mix the dolomitic lime with the soil to a depth of 8 inches using the shovel, and rake the area smooth. Conduct another soil test from a soil sample in spring before planting to ensure the soil is at the correct pH level. Muscadines are subject to iron chlorosis, or yellowing leaves, when soil pH rises above 7.0.