Lime and Chalk have the same properties and the same chemical make up. The only parameter to consider when deciding which one would suit you more, comes down to where you are in the country in comparison to the closest quarry.

Another reason to lime your ground is to help improve the soil structure. When adding Calcium Carbonate a chemical reaction occurs, helping to make the soil loose and friable. A lack of Calcium can create ‘cappy soil’ as there is no space in between the ionic bonds for either the Hydrogen cations or any nutrient exchange.

It doesn’t leach. CaCO3 is only soluble in acidic conditions. Meaning it will stay in the ground continuously curing any problem until all it has no more reactivity.

Currently, the lime we are most frequently sourcing has a neutralising value (NV) of 57%. This means that we can use less lime to get to a better pH level, saving money for our clients! 

 

Once applied, both chalk and limestone will stay in the soil, for roughly 4/5 years. This of course is dependent on your soil type. Sandy soils have fewer cation exchange sites, we see these deteriorate in pH much faster than clay loams, however, they do not require as much material to get the pH right... so little and often is best for maintenance.

Both chalk and lime can be put on the surface or incorporated into the soil, meaning that we are able to work year-round in conjunction with the agricultural schedule.

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