Used in survival and off-grid gardening to correct overly acidic soil, improve plant nutrient uptake, and restore productivity to degraded land.
Calcium hydroxide (hydrated lime) can be used to raise the pH of acidic soil, making it more suitable for growing vegetables, fruits, and staple crops. Many plants suffer in low-pH (acidic) conditions, where nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium become less available. This method is a time-tested way to naturally balance soil and improve crop health in off-grid, long-term, or reclaimed growing environments.
Ingredients
- Calcium Hydroxide (hydrated lime) – garden or food grade
- Soil pH test strips or a test kit
- Non-metallic container or scoop
- Rake, hoe, or hand tools for working soil
- Clean water for watering in
How to Use It
- Test your soil first using pH strips or a test kit; apply only if pH is below 6.0 — if you don’t have a test kit, signs of acidic soil may include poor plant growth, yellowing leaves, moss or fungus buildup, and the presence of acid-loving weeds like sorrel or plantain.
- Lightly sprinkle ½ to 1 cup of calcium hydroxide per 100 square feet of garden space
- Spread evenly across the soil surface
- Gently work into the top 2–4 inches of soil using a rake or hoe
- Water well to help activate and distribute the lime through the soil
- Retest pH after a few weeks and reapply if necessary
Warnings
- Do not over-apply — excessive lime can swing the pH too high and harm plants
- Wear gloves and a dust mask if working with dry lime in windy conditions
- Apply only between planting cycles, not directly onto seedlings or shallow roots
- Avoid applying near acid-loving plants like blueberries, azaleas, or potatoes unless pH is carefully managed
Storage & Shelf Life
- Store in a sealed glass jar or HDPE container in a cool, dry place
- Keep out of reach of children and away from moisture
- Shelf life is indefinite when kept completely dry
When to Use Lime for Soil pH
- Before planting vegetables in acidic soil (pH below 6.0)
- To reclaim poor, leached, or overworked garden beds
- As part of long-term homestead soil management
- To reduce soil acidity caused by heavy rainfall, compost, or manure overload
- In remote or off-grid areas where commercial garden amendments are unavailable