Lime products to support healthy soils in St Arnaud

St Arnaud lies within Victoria’s north-west cropping belt, surrounded by farms that produce wheat, barley, oats and oilseeds, as well as sheep for wool and meat. The region combines flat to gently undulating terrain with moderately fertile soils and a dryland farming system that relies on careful input management and soil stewardship.

Over time, the pressure of continuous cropping, grazing and fertiliser use has increased the need for soil improvement strategies — particularly those that address declining pH and nutrient efficiency.

Why lime is essential for St Arnaud’s soils

Soils across the St Arnaud area, including those around Kara Kara and Stuart Mill, are typically sandy loams and light clays. These soil types are prone to acidification, especially when used intensively for cropping. Acidic conditions reduce nutrient uptake, hinder root development, and limit crop and pasture performance.

Agricultural lime is a key tool for correcting soil pH and restoring productivity. It helps unlock phosphorus and calcium, improves soil structure, and supports microbial activity — all essential for maximising returns from dryland farming systems.

Agriculture Victoria reports that lime application can result in yield increases of up to 20 per cent, especially when used in conjunction with good paddock planning and nutrient budgeting.

Lime products for St Arnaud growers

Batesford Quarry produces a range of reliable lime products tailored to the needs of north-west Victorian farms:

• AG Lime – A finely screened lime ideal for broadacre pH correction
• Batesford Coarse Lime – Breaks down gradually, offering long-term support for soil structure
• Soil Conditioning Lime – Designed to enhance soil tilth and promote microbial activity

All products are tested to ensure consistent calcium carbonate levels and neutralising value for effective in-field performance.

Talk to your local supplier in St Arnaud

Batesford Quarry lime is available through established rural suppliers in St Arnaud and surrounding communities like Donald, Avoca and Charlton. Whether you’re managing a cropping program or maintaining grazing pastures, your local ag store or agronomist can help you choose the right lime solution for your paddocks.

For more information on supply or application, contact us or speak with your preferred rural distributor.