What Type of Limestone Should Be Applied?
Finely ground (pulverized) agricultural limestone (calcite, calcium carbonate) is recommended for liming lakes and ponds. Agricultural limestone (aglime) is a relatively inexpensive, widely available, easy to handle, natural and nontoxic compound, that dissolves (although not readily) in water. Aglime can be purchased in many particle sizes ranging from fine dust to rock. Fine limestone particles (< 0.01 inches or 0.025 cm) will dissolve rapidly and are preferred over coarse materials. Use high-quality, contaminant-free (< 5% of magnesium), and nutrient-free (low nitrates and phosphates) agricultural lime. Dolomitic limestone with high levels (> 5%) of magnesium carbonate (MgCO3) may result in poor dissolution and neutralization. However, because dolomitic limestone may be the only neutralizing material readily available in your locality, it is an acceptable alternative to aglime. The calcium content of the limestone relates directly to its capacity to neutralize acidity. Calcium conte
