Liming for Optimal Soil Performance
At Phoenix Agri, we keep the process straightforward—because that’s how it works best on farm.
The first step is identifying where the problem lies. We travel across the field, targeting underperforming areas, and collect GPS-referenced soil data to build an accurate pH map. This data is then used to create a tailored lime application plan with clear recommendations.
Using the logarithmic pH scale, we calculate the exact tonnage of lime or chalk required per hectare to correct any imbalance. This ensures applications are both effective and efficient.
Mapping the field in this way gives you a clear, visual overview of where issues are occurring. Once a plan is agreed, the pH map becomes a useful working tool for both the farmer and the contractor carrying out the application.
While on site, we also identify safe and practical tip locations, ensuring smooth delivery logistics. We then provide hauliers with all the necessary information to make deliveries straightforward and hassle-free.
Once approved, we coordinate directly with quarries and haulage companies to source the most cost-effective and practical solution, tailored to fit around your farming schedule.
We work with reliable, experienced hauliers who ensure timely delivery, allowing the job to be completed efficiently. Our trusted network of contractors are highly capable, carrying out work to a high standard while keeping disruption to a minimum and leaving sites clean and tidy.
Products
At Phoenix Agri, we supply a range of high-quality soil conditioners and fertilisers to improve soil health, balance pH, and maximise crop performance.
Lime and Chalk
A reliable and cost-effective solution for correcting acidic soils and increasing calcium levels, helping to improve soil structure and overall productivity.
Basic Slag
A natural soil conditioner that helps neutralise acidity while supplying a range of essential nutrients. It also supports improved grass palatability and performance.
FibroPhos
A PK fertiliser designed to raise phosphate and potash levels, particularly on poorer soils. It also supplies a range of essential nutrients (excluding nitrogen), helping to improve soil fertility and support stronger crop performance.
Granular Lime
A fast-acting pH adjuster that can be applied using a standard fertiliser spreader. Supplied in 600kg bags, offering flexibility for farmers to apply at their convenience.
Gypsum
A soil conditioner used to improve soil structure and drainage, particularly on heavy or compacted soils. It supplies calcium and sulphur without affecting pH, helping to enhance soil workability and support healthy crop growth.
PKup
A phosphate and potash builder and maintainer, produced from calcified bone meal. Contains a wide range of additional nutrients to support crop performance, with a neutralising value of approximately 10%.
Mag Lime
A high neutralising value lime containing approximately 20% magnesium. Used to correct soil acidity while improving magnesium levels, it should be applied carefully to avoid over-application of magnesium. Ideal for soils deficient in magnesium, supporting improved grass growth, crop health, and overall soil balance.
Why Lime or Chalk?
Lime and chalk share the same chemical composition and properties. In practice, the main factor when choosing between them is location—specifically, your proximity to the nearest quarry, which affects availability and cost.
Applying lime is essential for improving soil structure. When calcium carbonate is introduced, it triggers a chemical reaction that helps create a looser, more friable soil. A deficiency in calcium can lead to “capped” or compacted soils, where tight ionic bonding restricts movement, limiting both hydrogen ion balance and nutrient exchange.
One of the key advantages of lime is that it does not readily leach. Calcium carbonate is only soluble in acidic conditions, meaning it remains active in the soil, continuing to correct pH levels until it is fully reacted.
The lime we currently source typically has a Neutralising Value (NV) of around 57%. This higher NV means less material is required to achieve the desired pH, making it a more cost-effective solution for our clients.
Once applied, both chalk and limestone will remain effective in the soil for approximately 4–5 years, depending on soil type. Sandy soils, with fewer cation exchange sites, tend to lose pH more quickly than heavier clay loams. However, they also require lower application rates, so a “little and often” approach is ideal for maintaining optimal conditions.
Both chalk and lime can be surface applied or incorporated into the soil, allowing flexibility to fit in with farming operations throughout the year.