Lime in Clay Soil

I heard lime will help improve the drainage in my clay soils. How much should I add?

Melinda:

Lime can improve soil drainage, but it also raises the soil pH, which can cause other problems by limiting the nutrients available to your plants. Lime should be used only on acid soils, never on alkaline ones. Before applying lime, have your soil tested by a state-certified lab and follow its recommendations.

Another option is to add organic matter to the soi before planting. Then mulch with shredded leaves, pine needles, wood chips or other organic matter to improve soil structure and drainage.