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Crop response to acid soil management: GRDC – NSW (Webpage)

This Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) webpage explains the results of a south-eastern NSW research project using 5 cm interval pH testing to a depth of 20 cm to identify subsurface pH layers. It found that testing soil pH in 5 cm intervals down to 20 cm enables growers to identify acidic subsurface layers accurately. The research was conducted at 4 trial sites: Morven and Methul (with severe soil acidity) and Canowindra and Burrumbuttock (with soils with pH values that do not yet limit production). Findings indicated that if low‑pH zones are found, incorporating lime to the depth of acidity provides the quickest correction. Where deep mixing isn’t possible, applying enough lime to raise surface pH to about 5.8 can gradually neutralise deeper layers. Crop yields respond strongly when lime is effectively applied, especially in severely acidic soils. The economic response to lime depends on the extent of soil acidity, where it is in the soil profile, the effectiveness of the lime application, seasonal conditions and what crops are then grown. This paper is available as a downloadable PDF [296 KB, 6 pages]. It will be relevant to other Australian regions. #

  • Audience: RSP, tertiary students, landholders, SFSG, consultants
  • State: NSW
  • Author/Editor: J Condon, H Burns, A Farley, M Richards and N McGrath
  • Publisher: GRDC
  • Resource Type: Webpage
  • Copyright Year: 2025
  • Not Provided
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Resource Last Updated: August 18, 2025

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