Farmers are being encouraged to secure their lime and fertiliser requirements early to maximise pasture growth and build resilience ahead of a potentially dry summer.Â
According to Bryce Manderson, Managing Director of Avoca, lime remains one of the most under-utilised yet cost-effective tools available to improve soil performance and farm productivity.
As soils naturally become more acidic over time, nutrient availability declines and pasture production can suffer. Applying lime helps lift soil pH, unlocking nutrients already present in the soil and improving the effectiveness of fertiliser applications. This allows plants to access nutrients more efficiently, delivering better returns on fertiliser investment.
Beyond pH correction, lime supports stronger clover growth and nitrogen fixation, reducing reliance on nitrogen fertilisers. It also stimulates soil biological activity, encouraging beneficial organisms such as microbes and earthworms that contribute to nutrient cycling and soil health.
Neil Crowson, Sales and Operations Manager at Avoca, says many farmers overlook the role lime plays in improving overall soil balance. Even where soil pH appears acceptable, high magnesium levels can create compacted soils with poor drainage and restricted root growth. Calcium supplied by lime helps improve soil structure, aeration, water movement and root development, resulting in healthier and more productive pastures.
Research continues to show that healthier soils are more resilient, with improved water-holding capacity during dry periods and better drainage in wet conditions. Combined with the right fertiliser programme, lime helps create stronger, more profitable farming systems.
With fertiliser costs remaining significant and summer weather uncertainty looming, Avoca is encouraging farmers to make lime a central part of their nutrient management strategy and secure product early to optimise production potential.
