Lime for Lawns: When and Why to Use It
If your grass looks dull or patchy no matter how much you water or fertilize, the problem might not be what you’re adding, it’s what’s missing in your soil. When soil becomes too acidic, nutrients get trapped, roots weaken, and grass stops growing the way it should. That’s usually the time to think about using lime for your lawn, it helps balance soil pH so your grass can actually use the nutrients already there, growing thicker, greener, and stronger over time.
What Lime Does for Lawns
Lime isn’t a fertilizer, it’s a soil conditioner. It helps your lawn make the most of the nutrients already in the soil by fixing the pH imbalance that prevents growth.
Here’s how it works:
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Balances soil pH – Ideal range for lawns is between 6.5 and 7.0.
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Improves nutrient absorption – Lime allows grass roots to take in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium more effectively.
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Adds calcium and magnesium – Essential for strong, resilient growth.
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Softens compact soil – Improves drainage and oxygen flow to roots.
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Reduces moss and acidity problems – Helps grass reclaim areas that moss dominates.
When to Apply Lime
The best time to apply lime is fall or early spring. Fall is ideal because it gives lime months to break down and balance the soil before new growth starts. If applying in spring, aim for a cool, damp day - moisture helps lime move into the soil without burning the grass.
💡 Pro tip: Avoid applying lime on frozen or overly wet ground — it won’t absorb properly.
How to Apply Lime
Applying lime is simple once you test your soil.
Here’s a step-by-step guide homeowners can follow confidently:
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Test your soil.
Use a soil test kit or send a sample to your local extension office to find your current pH. -
Choose the right type of lime.
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Pelletized lime – Easy to spread and less dusty.
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Calcitic lime – Adds calcium for low-Ca soils.
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Dolomitic lime – Adds both calcium and magnesium.
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Liquid lime – Fast-acting but requires reapplication sooner.
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Spread evenly.
Use a drop or broadcast spreader to cover your lawn uniformly. -
Water lightly.
Helps lime penetrate the soil and start reacting. -
Retest soil after 2–3 months.
Adjust only if pH hasn’t reached the target range.
Types of Lime
Different lime types work best for different lawns. Here’s a quick reference:
| Type | Best For | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Pelletized Lime | Home lawns | Easy to spread, dissolves quickly |
| Calcitic Lime | Low calcium soils | Improves nutrient absorption |
| Dolomitic Lime | Acidic, magnesium-poor soils | Adds both calcium and magnesium |
| Liquid Lime | Fast results | Immediate pH correction, short-term fix |
There are three sections in Yardener's Helper dealing with using lime in the landscape:
