Lime helps crop establishment

The effectiveness of a liming material is dependent upon its neutralizing value, fineness and reactivity. Granucal has a neutralizing value (TNV) of over 52.5%. Worldwide research has demonstrated that finely ground particles of Agricultural Lime have a greater and swifter effect on soil pH than coarse particles. Therefore a smaller quantity of a fine lime will have a similar effect as a larger quantity of coarse lime. The speed of reaction of a liming material can be quantified by carrying out a Reactivity test. Granucal has a typical result of 90%. This means that it is totally effective within a shorter period of time than conventional lime as it has a high percentage of particles smaller than 0.015 mm.

Granucal is 92% Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) with a CaO of 51.5% making it one of the most effective products on the market for correcting soil pH. This high level of Calcium also helps to meet crop needs as many arable crops have a high demand for Calcium. Calcium is also needed to improve soil structure and the worm and bacterial life in the soil as well as by the grass plant for quality growth. Liming is often left until reseeding or planting cereals, but an application of lime onto grass swards now will improve the efficiency of fertiliser use and also improve the palatability of the sward for grazing this autumn.

To correct the pH levels in your soil, three to four cwt (150 to 200 kg) will be equivalent to about one tonne of ground limestone at similar cost. Using Granucal through their own fertiliser spinner farmers have the advantage of applying their lime at a time when it suits them, their crops and their ground conditions at rates appropriate to the pH of individual fields. Soils with a high organic matter content will normally require more lime to raise pH than fields with a sandy/silt soil type. However sandy/silt soils will be more prone to leaching of nutrients and small regular applications of nitrogen, potash and lime each year will optimise crop yields with both cereals and grass. Apply phosphate as required.

The target pH for both cereals and grass is 6.5. At this level farmers will get the most effective use of their fertiliser and slurry and maintain a high level of production.

For full details contact Joseph Morton Ltd on 02840662521 or Jim McMullan on Mob:07968327525.