Both cool-season and warm-season grass pastures would benefit from the application of lime if soil test results indicate that pH was less than 5.5. It is important to get a soil pH test to help assure this management practice is cost effective. A soil test that provides soil pH, buffer pH, and calcium is virtually essential to estimate potential lime needs. Also, response to lime varies greatly geographically, so check with local Cooperative Extension personnel for added advice. Most legumes are even more sensitive to low pH and they are likely to benefit as well. Or soil pH should be increased before trying to establish a legume component in the pastures. A primary benefit of lime and increasing soil pH is it will increase the availability of many nutrients that are needed by plants.

Browse related Faqs by tag: beef cattle, pasture, forage, lime, beefcattle