I think the dolomite acts like a buffer and requires only water. The sulfur requires microbes. The container guys would know more about pH adjustment.

Peat is very acidic while lime raises ph -- one of the many reasons why lime is added to so many soil mixes. Microbes are everywhere, so "eventually" the ph does adjust. As far as sulfur is concerned -- it does take a while also. I did, however, read recently that IRON sulfate works faster than aluminum sulfate.

Kevin

I think it is true that changing pH (either way) takes months. Because both sulfur and calcium have to be converted into ionic form.

But the good new is that a great majority of garden plants can thrive in a wide pH range. A ball park figure being: 6.2 to 7.2. Though most can benefit more from slightly acid( less than 7) than alkaline (greater than 7).

This post was edited by seysonn on Fri, May 30, 14 at 5:33

Sulfur is the only oddball here. Lime, iron sulfate and aluminum sulfate don't need microbial action.

How fast lime acts depends on how finely ground it is and how well it's mixed in to the soil. Very finely ground lime (think wood ashes or cement powder consistency) takes only a few weeks if the soil is kept moist. Iron/aluminium sulfates are even faster acting.

Hydro Ph up and down work quickly and are residual. Ph down is phosphoric acid.

Willard: can you explain further?

Thanks.

Kevin