palosf – posted 31 August 2004 14:33
I just put down some Empire Zoysia Sod here in NC. I just did a soil sample test for the ph level that turned out to be 5.5. Can i put lime down to correct the ph level even though I already put down the sod. I put it down on the 18th and have been watering it daily. I am worried that it will die since i didn’t correct the ph prior to laying down the sod. Also I tilled the ground and put 10-10-10 fertilizer down prior to laying the sod. Any suggestion on how to ensure that my sod doesn’t die.? Also how soon should I put down the fall fertilizer?
cohiba – posted 31 August 2004 18:04
palosf,
Did you put down the fertilizer right before you took the soil sample? If so this could be giving you a false reading. Also, what was the calcium and magnesium readings for the sample? You probably were given recommendations on the lime and it probably calls for alot of lime. I prefer to correct when planting but have found out that you can do it after and keep doing it. Lime only moves about 1″ per year in the rootzone so to correct 6″ down into the rootzone you will need to add lime for 6 or more seasons. If you are going to add lime now, I would add pelletized lime as it doesn’t burn like pulverized lime may. I would also check to see your calcium/magnesium ratio. Choosing the right lime can make all the difference in nutrient uptake and drainage later in the turfs life.
Good Luck…………..
Alex_in_FL – posted 31 August 2004 20:04
Cohiba has a very good point about a false pH after putting down the fertilizer. Try to grab a soil sample from your neighbor and see if the pH is still low.
You can also use limestone (pH ~7.6) to raise the pH some without burning it like hydrated lime will.
ted – posted 31 August 2004 21:53
let’s don’t forget that if his ph is that low ( and it probably is) that any fertilizing won’t be able to be used by the plant. cohiba has it correct- you’ll need to see whether you need dolomitic lime or not- that will be indicated by the magnesium levels. at any rate, use pelletized lime only- much more accurate application that the dusty stuff. everybody’s giving great answers for this guy…
palosf – posted 02 September 2004 08:59
I want to thank everyone for their help you all are great….thanks