Lime in soil: the forgotten nutrient

THE pH of Irish soils is falling

All soils naturally become more acidic with time.

A very important function of liming is to balance excess acidity and to restore the pH of the soil to the correct value, pH 6.3, for optimum Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium uptake.

Approximately 60% of mineral soils are below pH 6.0. 25% are below pH5.5.

Lime corrects problems caused by excessive acidity.

These problems are as follows: 1 Improves availability of essential nutrients, N.P.K

2 Increases essential microbial activity

3 Reduces aluminium and other metal toxicities

4 Improves the structure of soil 5 Lime adds calcium and minerals to soil, prevent milk fever in lactating cattle

Calcium from lime is an essential element for all animals, apart from building bone structure it preventing acidosis, aids muscle activity, even helps to control mastitis.

For more information contact: Dr Conor Murphy PHD, Southern Scientific Services, 4 Park Business Centre, Farranfore; tel:066 97 63588, Email info@southernscientificireland.com