Liming of vegetable plots. Is it necessary to apply lime?

Liming of vegetable plots is a ritual for many vegetable growers. It normally happens most Autumns. It is not necessary to do this, unless you actually have an acid soil.

Liming once every three years is probably ok for most vegetable plots. Even then, if a ph soil test indicates a ph level of 6.5 or above, then liming is not necessary.

If it is necessary, then 8oz per square yard on sandy soils and 1lb per square yard on loam or clay soils will be about right.

Heavy clay soils in particular will benefit if they are limed after rough digging over. The lime helps to break down the soil over-winter so it is easier to work in the spring.

Areas to be planted with brassicas will also benefit, as the lime will help to offset the problem of brassica clubroot.