Superfine AgLime (calcium carbonate)

Superfine AgLime (calcium carbonate)

Superfine AgLime is finely ground agricultural lime, a calcium carbonate from local Otago quarries. Use it to raise soil pH and supply calcium in garden beds, compost and living soil mixes.

At a glance

• Type: amendment (liming material)
• Analysis: 90% calcium carbonate, which is about 36% calcium (Ca)
• Use for: raising soil pH, supplying calcium
• Rate: 130 g (half a cup) per square metre, mixed in and watered
• Particle size: passes a 100 micron mesh
• Pack: bulk 500 kg and 1000 kg by quote

What it is

Screened fine lime from local Otago quarries. This lime is superfine: it passes a 100 micron mesh. Fine particles dissolve sooner than ordinary ag lime, so the pH change starts earlier and the lime is used up sooner. 90% calcium carbonate, which is about 36% calcium (Ca).

Bulk is available in 500 kg and 1000 kg quantities. Email store@seaclifforganics.nz for a quote.

What it does

• The carbonate reacts with soil acid and raises pH. The calcium is what is left behind.
• In an acid soil, lifting pH lowers the soluble aluminium and manganese that hold roots back.
• Most garden crops and soil organisms do best between pH 6.2 and 7.2, which is the range we run living soil at.
• Use it as a calcium source only when the soil test shows calcium is short. If pH is already in range and calcium is low, gypsum adds calcium without moving pH.

How to use

• Soil test for optimum levels before you lime. Incorporate into the soil, or top dress through the growing season.
• New beds: 130 g (half a cup) of lime per square metre of garden. Mix in and water in.
• Established plants: top dress 195 g (three quarters of a cup) per square metre.
• Compost bins: 65 g (a quarter of a cup) of lime per layer of compost to help it break down.
• Fine lime works quickly. Apply the rate the test calls for, then retest before repeating.
• Wood ash is also a liming material. Count it if you use both.

Learn more in fifteen seconds

• pH is not a calcium test
• Calcium: what it does
• Wood ash is lime in disguise

Handling and storage

• Wear a mask to avoid inhaling particles and open the bag in a well ventilated area.
• Wear gloves and eye protection, and wash hands after use.
• Once opened, keep sealed and dry.