Lime solution?

[Bethmb]

I have converted several pine-bush dominated beds into perennial beds and was recently advised to apply lime to counter the acidity of the pine remains. Is that true? If so, what type of lime is best and how is it best applied?

[The Helpful Gardener]

Yep, lime is the right stuff for the job. I like pelleted gypsum (basically lime in the rock form) as it is a slow release, but plain old hydrated lime will change your ph fastest. Simply follow the recommended rates and test your ph once a week until you get it stable (between 5.5 and 6.0 would be best for most perennials). Or you could skip all that and find the perennials that like acidic soil...

Scott