Tomatoes- Planting

Q: We recently planted tomatoes. Afterwards, the soil tester we bought from an online catalog measured a soil pH of 3.5. How much lime should be added?

A: Soil acidity (pH) is notoriously difficult to measure unless you have a calibrating solution of chemicals with which to adjust the pH meter before using it. Inexpensive meters typically can not be adjusted and are hugely affected by soil moisture and fertilizer. It’s doubtful you really have a soil pH of 3.5. The soil would be strongly acid and not likely to support plant life. You can have your soil tested by the state soils lab by calling 1-800-ASK-UGA-1.

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