Improves Soil pH

Lime reduces soil acidity, raising the pH to more optimal levels (typically around 6.0–6.5 for grass growth), which promotes healthy pasture growth.

Encourages stronger grass growth

Healthier, less acidic soil allows better nutrient uptake by grasses, leading to thicker, more resilient swards.

Reduces weeds and moss

Many weeds and moss species thrive in acidic soils. Liming can reduce their competitiveness and improve grass dominance.

Better nutrient efficiency

Lime helps release nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium already present in the soil, making them more available to plants.

Improves soil structure

Over time, liming can improve soil texture and drainage by enhancing microbial activity and root development.

Supports equine health indirectly

A healthy pasture means better quality grazing, which can reduce the need for supplementary feeding and help maintain better condition in horses.

Risk of over-liming:

Too much lime can make the soil too alkaline, which can lead to nutrient imbalances (especially a drop in availability of micronutrients like iron and manganese).

Time-dependent results

Lime doesn’t work instantly; it can take several months to fully react with the soil, so it’s a longer-term investment.

Cost and labour

Application can be expensive, especially on large areas or if soil testing, transport, and spreading costs are included.

Can affect clover growth

While some clovers thrive with liming, others may not do well if the soil becomes too alkaline.

Seasonal timing

Lime is best applied in autumn or early spring. If applied too close to fertilising, especially with ammonium-based nitrogen fertilisers, it can cause nitrogen loss.

May not be necessary

If soil pH is already optimal, applying lime can do more harm than good. Always test your soil before applying.