Teagasc highlights vital need for lime application on farms
Teagasc and ground limestone producers recently teamed up at the National Ploughing Championships to promote optimal soil pH management across Irish holdings. Survey findings revealed significant gaps in lime usage, prompting calls for increased spreading to boost grass production and sustainability.
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Teagasc Agricultural News
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⏱️ 2 min read
Recent soil test results across the country indicate a substantial national requirement for ground limestone, with approximately 60% of drystock holdings currently operating at sub-optimal soil pH levels. To address this, the Teagasc Signpost Programme collaborated with the Ground Limestone Producers of Ireland during the National Ploughing Championships in Screggan, County Offaly, aiming to raise awareness about the agronomic advantages of correcting soil acidity. Over the three-day event, more than 400 visitors entered a daily competition sponsored by Grolime to win a complimentary load of agricultural lime.
Following the draw, Jim Power from County Kilkenny, Myra Best from County Leitrim, and Philip Ryan from County Tipperary were announced as the lucky competition winners, entitled to claim their prizes from local certified quarries. However, survey data gathered from participants revealed that roughly one in three respondents had failed to spread lime within the past five years. Head of the Signpost Programme, Dr Tom O’Dwyer, emphasised that autumn offers an ideal window for farmers to review their soil analysis reports and schedule necessary applications to maximise efficiency.
Experts at the stand noted that maintaining an optimum soil pH of 6.3 to 6.5 can yield an impressive return on investment through enhanced grass growth and a natural boost in nitrogen supply. With recent Department of Agriculture figures showing a significant drop in lime sales compared to previous years, industry representatives continue to encourage agricultural producers to utilise local Grolime suppliers. Further resources and guidance are available on the official website of the Teagasc Signpost Programme.
Following the draw, Jim Power from County Kilkenny, Myra Best from County Leitrim, and Philip Ryan from County Tipperary were announced as the lucky competition winners, entitled to claim their prizes from local certified quarries. However, survey data gathered from participants revealed that roughly one in three respondents had failed to spread lime within the past five years. Head of the Signpost Programme, Dr Tom O’Dwyer, emphasised that autumn offers an ideal window for farmers to review their soil analysis reports and schedule necessary applications to maximise efficiency.
Experts at the stand noted that maintaining an optimum soil pH of 6.3 to 6.5 can yield an impressive return on investment through enhanced grass growth and a natural boost in nitrogen supply. With recent Department of Agriculture figures showing a significant drop in lime sales compared to previous years, industry representatives continue to encourage agricultural producers to utilise local Grolime suppliers. Further resources and guidance are available on the official website of the Teagasc Signpost Programme.
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