Nutrient Availability

Aglime increases availability of major nutrients nitrogen, phosphate and potassium by:

• Increasing nitrogen fixing in legumes and free living bacteria

• Increasing N, P & K release from organic matter through higher microbial activity

• Releasing phosphate from iron and aluminium

• Decreasing potassium loss from leaching

Aglime increases availability of minor nutrients sulphur, calcium and magnesium by:

• Increasing S, Ca and Mg release from organic matter through higher microbial activity

• Decreasing calcium and magnesium loss by reducing leaching

• Directly supplying calcium and magnesium

Lime can decrease the availability of trace elements

With the exception of molybdenum, most trace elements, especially manganese and zinc, may be less available to plants after liming. In some soils, particularly if trace elements are not regularly applied, deficiencies can occur in the soil.

Plant sampling and analysis is highly recommended to ensure crops and pastures have sufficient nutrients to achieve high yields. The table following is a guide to minimal levels (ppm) for trace elements in legumes or canola (Source Top Crop West).

We recommend farmers plant test and maintain trace elements above these minimal levels to achieve the best results from liming. Plant growth stage and plant weight can affect minimal levels. A consultant can help interpret your nutrient tests.

Recommendations

Acid soils lead to inefficient fertiliser use. Aglime helps fertiliser work, resulting in greater production and more profit. Take advantage of Precision SoilTech’s soil sampling services to monitor the level of trace elements across your farm. Samples are DGPS located for accurate resampling year after year. Precision SoilTech also provides a plant sampling service backed by the same DGPS technology allowing accurate monitoring of your plants over time. Tissue samples are sent to the laboratory of your choice for analysis.