Monday, November 22, 2010

How long does it take to change soil pH?

For example, how long would it take for neutral soil to a pH of 10, by using limestone? ( I know that limestone raises soil pH). Would it take a month? a year? How long does it take to change soil pH?
It usually takes a year or more for pH to reach the target value. When high rates are used and there is good mixing of lime with soil, change may take place faster. If both lime and soil are mixed in a powdery dry condition just before rain, pH change may occur in just a month or two.

How long does it take to change soil pH?
Take your soil sample, place it in a funnel with some fine screen or cloth in the bottom. Add a measured soil sample, run purified water through the sample, perhaps 100 mL. Collect the filtrate and check the pH. Most pH test are based on the sample being 25 degrees C. Once you've established the pH of the natural soil, try adding the soil amendments to the soil and repeat the filtration process and check the pH again. Has it changed? If not, try adding adding more of the soil amendment. You cold do the same process with an acidifier such as Ironite or sulfur to see how long and much amendment it takes to change the pH. Liquid amendments should change the pH almost immediately but may not last very long. Another factor is the amount of humus (which is acidic) is in the soil.

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