Applying Pelletized Lime at Planting

While pelletized lime reacts faster than standard ag lime, it does have its limitations. It takes 3-5 months for pelletized lime to reach maximum adjustment of soil pH. The key difference between pelletized lime and standard ag lime is finless of grind. Pelletized lime is standard ag lime that has been ground to a much finer and uniform particle size that solubilizes and reacts quicker. The material is then pelletized using a binding agent to make a more application flexible product.

If the goal is to make small annual applications for pelletized lime to maintain pH over time, the timing of the repeated application of not an issue. If the goal is to correct a very low soil pH to reduce impact on the next cropping season, timing of application is very important.

Pelletized lime works very well when applied in the fall resulting in a notable soil pH increase by spring planting that should carry though the growing season. The closer to planting the material is applied, the less impactful it is soil pH increase in that growing season. Very early spring applications will have a significant impact on soil pH mid growing season. Applications made at planting will have a significant impact on soil pH during reproduction and grain fill. 

Pelletized lime applied in the fall, in combination with fall application of standard ag lime, is a very effective way to increase and hold soil pH relatively quickly. The pelletized lime will react and have a significant impact on soil pH the following growing season starting sometime in the spring. The pelletized lime will maintain an elevated pH until the standard ag lime reaches peak pH adjustment 12-24 months after application.