Lime product options

At the beginning of August, I wrote a blog on the importance of correcting your pH and the benefits that this can bring to you and your land. Lime spreaders have been working at full capacity across the UK since then and it has served as a reminder of just how many different liming products are available. As a result, I thought it would be helpful to write a blog highlighting some of the options available; specifically the main types of bulk and granular lime we come across and the benefits that they can bring.

Remember: When looking at RB209 recommendations, these are given in terms of t/ha limestone based on a neutralising value (NV) of 50-55. When thinking about the possibility of other products mentioned in this blog, the difference in NV and fineness will need to be considered as it has a significant impact on the effectiveness of liming.

Ground limestone/chalk

Limestone/chalk is the most popular liming product that we create recommendations for here at the SOYL office.

Benefits

The advantage of calcium lime is that it specifically targets the pH problems within the field without bringing any other nutrients into the equation. When applied at the correct rates and the correct target pH, limestone only needs to be applied once (roughly) every four years.

Considerations

The required frequency of applications can vary from farm to farm depending on soil types, while application timings can be dependent on crop rotations.

Magnesium limestone

Magnesium limestone, or MagLime, usually has an NV between 50 and 55 and is applied at similar rates to ground limestone. This product can offer great benefits but, if used incorrectly, can cause issues. Careful planning and consideration are really important.

Benefits

The big advantage of using this is that it can help to correct magnesium deficiency at the same time. For the product to be classed as MagLime, there must be a minimum 15% MgO.

Considerations

Although the idea of applying fresh magnesium can be appealing, using this product excessively over a number of years can bring its own problems. High Mg levels within the soil can have a negative effect on potash availability, as well as soil structure and drainage. If this is your choice of product it requires some very careful management – ensure you regularly monitor soil magnesium levels and use the product in moderation.

When applying this product variably, you should also be aware of targeting acidic areas of the field as this can mean high amounts of magnesium applied where it is not needed. On the flip side, any pH areas above the lime target will not receive any Mg even if there is a requirement. 

LimeX

Benefits

Due to the finer composition of LimeX, reactivity within the soil happens quickly and pH is corrected more rapidly.

Considerations

LimeX has a lower NV of between 22 -32. This means that a higher maximum rate is required to ensure a three-to-four year impact, or that slightly more frequent applications are made.

As well as lime, LimeX offers varying amounts of other nutrients when applied to land, as shown in the above graphic. This can result in nutrients being applied to areas where P indices may be high and there would be no requirement. On the other hand, if indices are low for P, this would help to increase them to the levels required.

Granular lime (Calciprill/Calcifert etc.)

Granular lime is very finely ground limestone which is then combined into spreadable granules, similar in size to fertiliser.

Benefit

By creating a granule, contractors are not required and it can be applied using a standard fertiliser spreader. This allows application at any time of year and to growing crops, unlike conventional ground lime.

Due to the fineness of the limestone with which the product is created, granular lime is quick to react within the soil and increase your pH. This makes it ideal for correcting pH levels that may be detrimental to crop growth, particularly in cases where a crop has already been sown before the problem was noticed.

Considerations

Applying large amounts of granular lime for a long term adjustment may not be an economical solution for maintaining or improving pH levels. However, as a 'fire fighting' solution or a little-and-often application to defined areas, it is ideal to ensure final yields are not impacted.

Before choosing your options

Before committing to one of the products mentioned (or any other that suits your needs), ensure that you have taken into account the advantages and disadvantages of each. Once you have all of the information, it's a good idea to consider the following to help determine whether or not you're making the right choice:

• Think about your rotation – do you grow acid-sensitive crops?
• What are your soil types on farm? Lighter soils may require liming on a more regular basis
• Always ask about NV values of lime to find out how effective it will be
• Make sure you know the particle size of the lime being supplied as this can have a significant impact on its effectiveness
• What are your nutrient indices like? Could something like Magnesium limestone or Limex be beneficial?
• Do you need a quick result for one year? Consider the possible use of a granulated lime.
  
  

For more information and advice about liming options and what could work best for you, speak to a member of our team by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or calling 01635 204190. 

Gavin Campbell
Applications team manager

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