Lime adds these two essential elements to the soil, but it is more commonly used to correct the soil pH. Most plants prefer a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. If the pH is too high (alkaline) or too low (acidic), the plant can't absorb the nutrients that are available in the soil.
Limestone is relatively pure calcium carbonate, but dolomitic limestone is a mix of calcium carbonate and magnesium. Pound for pound, dolomitic limestone neutralizes more acidity than pure limestone and adds magnesium to the soil, perfect for those who garden in the East or the Pacific Northwest where this nutrient is naturally low.
Jun 06, 2013· How to make the most of your soil, whatever the type. Plants generally prefer neutral soil but it's worth bearing in mind that some favor slightly acid or alkaline soils. Regardless of the pH of your soil it is possible to adjust the level slightly to make it more hospitable to the type of plants you want to grow.
May 08, 2019· Though a living soil will continue to recycle and retain most other mineral nutrients, nitrogen is often in short supply, even after years of soil building. Not only does nitrogen feed soil plants, it also feeds soil organisms. Because of this, garden growth and long-term soil .