What are some benefits of adding lime to soil?

Adding lime to soil can help stabilize the soil to slow erosion, reduce acidity by raising the pH level, increase the effectiveness of fertilizers and boost microorganisms to help aerate soil. Lime also supplies calcium ions and helps keep certain strains of fungi from growing in soil.

A pH test can determine whether additional lime is needed in soil. However, a complete soil test provides more information and shows how much lime needs to be applied. A detailed chemical analysis indicates which nutrients are present in the soil and which aspects are lacking.

Lime agents are divided into two categories: calcitic and colomitic. Calcitic soil supplements are used most often.