Use of Lime in Orchards
Chuck Bornt, Team Leader, Extension Vegetable Specialist
Eastern New York Commercial Horticulture
Thorough incorporation of adequate amounts of lime prior to planting a new orchard is essential. The topsoil (0-8 inch depth) should be adjusted to pH 7 and subsoil (8-16 inch depth) to pH 6.5. An adequate liming program based on soil tests should be the first consideration in developing orchard fertilization plans. Lime is the most economical source of calcium and magnesium. Regulation of soil pH through liming is also necessary to achieve optimal response to other nutrient elements. Fruit from Honeycrisp plantings can suffer from a physiological disorder called bitter pit (BP). The mitigation of BP requires the implementation of multiple tactics, of which the maintenance of soil pH around 7.0 helps.
Use of Lime in Orchards (pdf; 126KB)
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Upcoming Events
Capital Region Orchard Twilight Meeting
August 11, 2026
Rexford, NY
Join the ENYCHP and Cornell scientists on August 11 for the Capital Region Orchard Twilight meeting in Saratoga! We will be touring Bowman Orchards and reviewing seasonal recommendations for pests and diseases for apples, plums, and berries, as well discussing crop insurance.
NYSDEC Pesticide Applicator Recertification Credits: 1.25 in categories 22, 1A, & 10. Refreshments will be provided.
Free to attend, however we do ask that you register ahead so we know how many people to expect.
Champlain Valley Orchard Storage Meeting
August 26, 2026
Chazy, NY
Join various experts from Cornell and Cooperative Extension at an orchard storage meeting for the Champlain Valley in Chazy from 1 to 4PM on August 26th. Free to attend, however we do ask that you register ahead so we know how many people to expect.