In general, about 50 pounds of ground limestone per 1,000 sq. feet every three or four years will maintain the proper level for most crops and soils. Be careful when liming soil intended for potatoes, since liming encourages the plant disease scab. A pH of 5.0 to 5.5 is recommended for potatoes. Apply 50 to 75 pounds of ground limestone per 1,000 sq. feet to sandy soils that have never been limed. On heavier silty or clay soils, apply 75
to 125 pounds of ground limestone per 1,000 sq. feet.
Fertilizer: Fertilizers composed of nitrogen, phosphorus and potash, such as a 5-10-10, are usually considered best for vegetable gardens. These
three figures represent the percentage of each element in the fertilizer. For example, a 5-10-10 fertilizer contains 5% nitrogen, 10% phosphorus and
10% potassium.
The 5-10-10 fertilizer is a 1-2-2 ratio. An 8-16-16 fertilizer is also a 1-2-2 ratio but is more concentrated. Therefore, smaller amounts of 8-16-16 could be used in place of the 5-10-10. However, this is not a big factor in a typical home garden and either material could be used. Other ratios could be used including a 1-1-1, which is commonly sold as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20.
It is often desirable to broadcast 2 to 3 pounds of fertilizer per 100 sq. feet of garden area before planting. This can be done before or after the garden has been plowed, rototilled or spaded. Work the fertilizer into the soil
to a depth of 2 or 3 inches before planting.
Starter Solutions: Starter solutions are soluble, high analysis fertilizers used at transplanting time. They help get plants started quickly and often increase yields. However, they are not absolutely necessary, especially when
the fertility and condition of the garden is good. Farm and garden stores carry a number of commercial starter solutions.
Follow package directions carefully.
Sidedressing: Sidedressing with a nitrogen-carrying fertilizer is useful with some vegetables. It may be applied to leafy vegetables after the plants are started, to corn when it is 12 to 15 inches tall, and to tomatoes after the first fruits have set. All types of beans respond well to sidedressing. Use about 1/2 lb. (about 1 cup) of ammonium nitrate or 1/3 lb. (about 1/4 cup) of urea per 100 feet of row. If urea is used, work it lightly into the soil. Apply these materials 6 to 10 inches away from the plant. A regular fertilizer such as 10-10-10 may also be used at 1 lb. (2 cups) per 100 feet of row.
For additional information please visit CCE Schuyler's website.