What is the best time of the year to apply lime?
The best time to apply lime will depend on your budget and when it best suits getting lime delivered. Because the main cost of lime is the carting cost, times that coincide with back-loading would be ideal. However, storing and applying lime in dry conditions in summer or autumn without incorporating can result in lime being blown by the wind. In terms of its activity in the soil, the best time would be after a couple of rains which will moisten the soil and make it easier for incorporation by a tine or implement prior to cropping. This moisture would also allow the lime to begin ameliorating soil acidity. However, the benefits of lime are most significant after 2-3 years of application, although with good incorporation, soil moisture and low soil buffering capacities, benefits may be seen after one year. In summary the sooner the better, but consider cost cutting measures such as back-loading and beware of dry and windy conditions.
