@Micah
Just so you know, CEC is not the same as buffering capacity. They are related but distinct.
CEC is affected by pH (higher pH = higher CEC), while buffering capacity is constant. The way you’re using the term CEC accurately describes buffering capacity, so it’s just the ‘CEC’ part that’s off.
Even straight sand has a more stable pH than you described; rain won’t dramatically change it, though other environmental factors will. Its those other environmental factors that make even sand have a stable pH. It’s worth adjusting the pH no matter what the buffer capacity is. Fortunately, super low buffer capacity means the pH will need little media.
If you have a lot of compost and organic matter in your soil, and a high CEC, you simply will not have pH problems in all but the most rare cases.
Once the pH is correct, that is mostly true. You can’t assume the pH is in a good range by default, but once it’s in that range, it would take a long time for it to drift out of that range. But it can drift.
BRB, going to buff my lawn. Do you recommend orbital or random? Grit?
(Joking, good info I never knew about, thanks)
Only hand polishing leaf by leaf is acceptable
As for CEC; most of this forum is just about ‘what is this weed and what chemical do I need to kill it.’ Even with pictures that show basically no grass. And the only answers to almost any problem are: chemicals. I’m no tree hugger, but I live in a place where most herbicides and pesticides are banned, and it turns out compost can solve nearly all the problems, cheaper and without destroying your soil’s microbial ecosystem. Too low pH? Compost. Too high pH? Compost. Poor drainage? Compost. Poor water and nutrient retention? Compost. Weeds? Yes, compost will absolutely help. Pythium? Worm castings are a miracle solution, but with enough compost, you will get your worms to make that for you. Grubs? Well, nematodes work better, but compost will make it more likely your grass survives with little damage. Basically, whatever your problem is, compost is the solution.
Put a fungicide like Propi and add some nitrogen like a 10-10-10. I just did the same on my renovation. It’s young grass and hungry. It should darken up
