The importance for regular liming applications is often understated. The soil is a vital resource to the farmer and soil management is crucial it is therefore crucial in both the short and long term. If the soil acidity increases (pH below 7), it will eventually lead to a considerable reduction in fertility and consequently crop performance.
Unless regular steps are taken to redress the pH by applying lime, there will be a natural reduction in calcium status and fertility. Calcium loss and increased acidity often occurs as a result of – fertilising, cropping, leaching etc.
The overuse of fertiliser has become a massive threat to Australia’s agricultural land. Acidity caused by nitrogen fertilisers is now threatening productivity on a quarter of Australia’s farming land. Unlike salinity, acidity can be reversed by the use of good farm management and the use of lime.