Technical Information

SAMPLING FOR ASSESSMENT OF LIME REQUIREMENTS

Soil samples should be taken methodically from a number of places in the field and tested individually since acidity frequently occurs in patches in the field. Test results should be plotted on a field map so that any lime required may be applied in the right place and at the correct and most economic rate. Although poor and patchy crop performance and the presence of acid loving weed species are rough indications of lime deficiency, the acid reaction to indicator solution or pH meter is the only reliable method of assessing lime requirements.

See nutrient availability and crop growth diagram.

Reports based on bulk wholefield samples are rarely reliable for lime status as they average out variations across fields and fail to identify the deficient areas

Assessing soil lime status requires good sampling and analytical procedures.

NEXT > Soil pH, Nutrient availability & Plant Growth

The advisory booklet 'Agricultural Lime, the natural solution' is available from the ALA. Click HERE to order a copy by email.