Improving soil fertility remains one of the most important factors in driving productivity to maximise returns from grassland systems on Irish farms.

As input costs remain a concern across the Irish farming sector, ensuring soils can make full use of applied nutrients has become increasingly important.

Low pH soils reduce the availability of key nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium and this limits crops from delivering to their full potential.

Despite Teagasc figures that show more than 80% of Irish soils require lime to unlock the full potential of applied fertiliser, farmers are still choosing to apply expensive inputs to soils with sub-optimal pH levels.

Regular lime application is a key element in offsetting expensive fertiliser costs by improving nutrient uptake, increasing the efficiency of nitrogen applications and helping to support stronger, more productive swards.

Certified suppliers under the Grolime trademark have this year collaborated with Co. Waterford farmer Conor Mulligan, whose recent Walsh Fellowship master’s degree with Teagasc investigated farmers' attitudes, beliefs and practises in relation to lime and nutrient management planning.

Conor is now implementing his findings on his own family farm and has seen the beneficial results from carefully planned out lime application throughout his farm.

Conor explained: “The results have been visible on the ground - soil testing and regular lime application have become routine in my approach to improve soil fertility."

"When I get my soil test results back, I consult with my Grolime rep on where I need lime and I apply it.

"Then we test again in about three to four years. The repeat testing has shown measurable improvements in soil pH and overall field performance following lime application.

"To me, that proves lime application works, and specifically when it comes to Grolime, I find it consistent and reliable.”

Dispelling the myths 

Part of Conor’s studies examined some of the perceived barriers to lime application. 

Despite its proven benefits of correcting soil pH, lime is still viewed by some farmers as an occasional expense rather than a long-term investment.

In addition, the limited window of opportunity to apply lime was identified as another perceived problem.

Conor meets this challenge head on by advising that if you want to get the most from your grassland, you must create the opportunities to apply lime.

“This may mean grazing a paddock tight and then getting lime applied, or if spreading slurry is important, do that first and then 10 days later you should have no problem applying lime on that field,” Conor advised.

He recognises that lime remains the most valuable soil conditioner in Irish agriculture and is a highly worthwhile input, due to its significant return on investment.

According to Teagasc, every €1 invested in lime earns a return of €6-€10 in increased grass production.

A practical approach

Conor emphasises that lime application does not need to become another complicated job on the farm.

Instead, the focus should be on building a consistent system around soil testing, targeted lime application and long-term planning.

According to Conor, support from his Grolime supplier has helped simplify that process.

"I know when I call my local Grolime rep that he’s going to be at the end of the phone giving me advice on what product I need, what rate I need, and will also take care of organising the contractor,” he said.

Building stronger soils for the future

As farmers continue to focus on improving grass utilisation while reducing unnecessary input costs, soil fertility management is expected to remain a major focus across the sector.

Regular soil testing and targeted lime application is one of the simplest ways to improve overall soil performance from the ground up.

Conor Mulligan’s experience highlights a simple message: better soil pH creates the foundation for better farming.

In the Waterford farmer's words, "If you're not soil testing, you’re farming blindly."

The Grolime trademark reassures farmers that they are purchasing a high-quality agricultural lime from a trusted Irish supplier, helping them make informed purchasing decisions that support improved soil pH, better nutrient availability and long-term productivity.

The Ground Limestone Producers Association of Ireland is a representative body of 15 member companies operating in approximately 30 locations throughout Ireland, all of which manufacture and sell ground limestone to farmers throughout the country.