Garden Lime vs. Pickling Lime: Different Products, Different Uses

Not the Same

• Pickling/hydrated lime: Calcium hydroxide. Rapid pH change. Used for pickling, whitewash, odor control. Not for established plants—can burn roots.
• Garden lime (agricultural lime): Calcium carbonate. Slow pH change (2–4 weeks). Safe for established plants. Much cheaper.

When to Use Which

• Garden lime: Routine soil pH adjustment.
• Hydrated lime: Pre-plant only (weeks before), or for outhouse/compost odor.