Lime is commonly applied to soil to improve fertility and to reduce soil acidity. The application of lime reduces the toxic concentrations of the elements aluminium (Al) and manganese (Mn). It supplies calcium (Ca) and increases the availability of some nutrients such as magnesium (Mg) and molybdenum (Mo).
Members of the VLPA primarily supply natural lime products that have been mined and then processed for sale. Pure lime is 100% calcium carbonate (CaCO3). Some members also supply burnt lime (calcium oxide, CaO), hydrated lime (calcium hydroxide, Ca(OH)2). As a natural product, the actual calcium carbonate content will vary. VLPA members test their products on a regular basis and quote the actual calcium carbonate content in their product data or specification sheet.
Some natural limes can contain other beneficial minerals such as magnesium, or have other minerals added during processing. Request further information from VLPA members.
When limestone has high magnesium content it is called Dolomite or Dolomitic Limestone. Dolomite is generally defined as having a minimum magnesium carbonate content of 28% and a minimum calcium carbonate content of 35%.
Gypsum (calcium sulphate) is another natural product commonly used in farming. It is used mainly to improve soil structure of sodic clay soils. Refer to the Natural Gypsum Miners Association for more information on gypsum. www.gypsum.asn.au