What is lime sulfur?

Lime sulfur is a liquid mixture of calcium polysulfides formed by reacting calcium hydroxide with sulfur. It is commonly used as a highly effective fungicide, insecticide, and miticide in organic gardening and agriculture.

Lime sulfur has been used for over a century to control various fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, black spot, and rust on fruit trees, roses, shrubs, and ornamental plants. It is also effective against pests like mites, thrips, and scale insects.

When applied to plants, lime sulfur works by disrupting the growth and reproduction of fungi and insects, eventually killing them. It has a characteristic strong sulfur smell and may cause skin and eye irritation, so care should be taken when handling and applying it.

Although lime sulfur is considered a natural and organic product, it can be harmful to beneficial insects and some plants, so it should be used with caution and according to the instructions on the label. It is also important to avoid using lime sulfur in hot weather or on sensitive plants, as it can cause leaf burn.