Green light to apply lime as conditions suit

Every year, the question is put to Teagasc advisers by farmers: “When is the best time to apply lime?”

In answer, now is the best time while weather and ground conditions allow. Spreading lime in the autumn will encourage growth in the coming spring by releasing organic nitrogen and phosphorous from the soil, encouraging earthworm and microbial activity, increased uptake and utilisation of chemical NPK fertiliser by grass plants and tillage crops. Also, spreading lime in the autumn reduces the risk of lime being taken up in silage crops next year. Excess lime in mown grass will inhibit silage preservation, resulting in poor quality silage.

Importance of Lime