What is agricultural lime used for?
As a leading supplier of natural stone, Stamford Stone also offers high-quality aggregates including agricultural lime. Often called ‘aglime’, agricultural lime is made by pulverizing limestone derived from our own local quarries.
How agricultural lime helps farmers
Agricultural lime has been used by farmers for years as a soil improver. It’s also a natural, low-cost way to enhance the effects of regular chemical-based fertilizers.
By reducing soil acidity, aglime makes a huge difference to the productivity potential of both arable and grassland farming. Adding limestone helps to stabilize soil acidity while increasing essential mineral content, including calcium and magnesium. This results in improved crop growth and yields.
Benefits of agricultural lime
The application of agricultural lime to farmland leads to five major benefits:
- increasing pH in acidic soil, reducing acidity, and increasing alkalinity
- a source of calcium for plants
- improving water penetration in acidic soils
- improving the absorption of prime nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) in plants growing in acid soils
- reducing the need for costly, potentially toxic chemical fertilizers
In farming, agricultural lime is easy to apply, typically via a bulk lime spreader. Additionally, it can be used by gardeners to reduce soil acidity and to eradicate parasites in lawns. However, you need to be careful if you have acid-loving plants such as azaleas and rhododendrons. These will suffer if the soil pH level is too high.
Lime is long-lasting and, unlike regular fertilizers, one application is often enough to last three or four years, particularly in domestic situations.
Does agricultural lime kill parasites?
It is highly effective in destroying parasites on dry floors and garden areas including lawns. It works by creating an inhospitable breeding environment. Any parasites or eggs present will be killed upon contact. Simply sprinkle a light dusting of lime around the infested area; leave for 24 hours and sweep away. Further doses can be applied if necessary.
Is it harmful to humans?
It is far safer to use than caustic limes such as quicklime or hydrated lime. However, when working with lime it’s advisable to use eye and skin protection to avoid irritation. These precautions are especially important if using it in a domestic environment when treating your garden and where children and pets are present.
Is Stamford Stone agricultural lime sustainable?
Stamford Stone supplies sustainable agricultural lime from its own limestone quarries via an up-to-date plant and processing centre. So, you can be confident of the quality, consistency and continuity of your limestone aggregate needs for years to come. You can collect supplies directly from our quarries or choose our direct to site service. For all your agricultural lime needs, simply call our aggregate experts on 01780 740 970.