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Limestone conditions soil and maintains a proper alkalinity-acidity level essential for good soil. The measure of alkaline to acid is called pH, scientific shorthand for the concentration of hydrogen ions. It is expressed by a numerical scale, on which 7 is neutral, 1.0 is very acidic and 14.0 is very alkaline. Very acidic soil with low pH is not conducive to healthy plant growth. Active lawns continually remove soil nutrients and release hydrogen, which boosts acid. Magnesium and calcium, which naturally help neutralize soil acidity, are routinely washed by rainfall deeper into the soil, away from plant roots. A regular application of limestone naturally neutralizes acid in the soil and allows the lawn to flourish. With proper pH levels, beneficial micro-organisms thrive and continually break down thatch, reducing damage from insects or disease. Pelletized lime is a new innovation over powdered lime, and activates more quickly. Liming is an important part of a turf management program and is safe to use, non-toxic to humans or grass, and will not contribute to water pollution. |



