Value of different forms of lime; intensive cane production : farm bulletin no. 6

Abstract

Title one: Early records show that the value of lime as a soil improver was known to agriculturists over 800 years ago, and its use has persisted as a standard practice through the intervening centuries. It is only quite recently, however, that its true functions have been clearly understood. Lime is, strictly speaking, an essential plantfood, and in its r;omplete absence the soil is quite sterile. The relative needs of various plant species for this nutrient vary widely, however. Lucerne and many other legumes appear to thrive only in soils abundantly provided with this plantfood. Sugar-cane, on the other hand, is not a lime-loving plant, and the employment of lime on the cane soils of the State must be traced to its virtues in other important respects.

Title two: As a means of reducing production costs of agricultural crops, the importance of intensive cultivation under our Queensland conditions has been repeatedly stressed. Before this can be effected, it is essential for the farmer to have a clear understanding of the chief factors influencing crop yields.