1. Enter in the names of the 2 lime sources you wish to compare.
2. For each lime source, enter details on the lime’s particle size distribution and the neutralising value (NV) for each particle size range of lime. The numbers in the “% of lime” column should equal 100.
3. For each lime, enter the cost of the lime ($/t).
4. For each lime enter transport costs ($/t)
5. For each lime enter the cost of applying it ($/t). This is normally around $8 - $10/t.
6. Click on the “Calculate lime comparison” button. The cost of the equivalent of one tonne of 100% NV lime applied to the paddock can be compared between lime sources.

When applying lime it is important to be able quantify a number of issues other than the actual cost, and cartage and spreading costs. The quality of the product plays an important part in the pH neutralising capability of the lime. Lime can be sourced from many places, each having different characteristics, both within and between pits. It is necessary to know what the quality of lime being purchased and how effective is will be at neutralising pH.

This calculator uses published values* it discounts the NV to account for the reduced effect of larger particle sizes which reduce the short term capacity of the lime to change the soil pH.

*Neutralising value and relative efficiencies of particle sizes in changing soil pH of 100, 50 and 20% for limes less than 0.5 mm, 0.5 - 1.0 mm and greater than 1.0 mm are from Cregan, P.D., Hirth, J.R. and Conyers, M.K. (1989) Amelioration of Soil Acidity by Liming and Other Amendments. In "Soil Acidity and Plant Growth" (A.D. Robson, ed.), pp. 205-264. Academic Press