Teagasc has used its Soil Health Week campaign to call on Irish farmers to maintain balanced soil fertility across lime, phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) as the foundation of productive grassland and tillage systems.

The Agriculture and Food Development Authority's message is direct: soil fertility comes first. Balanced pH, P and K levels underpin nutrient use efficiency, crop and grass yields, and the performance of every input applied after them.

Why balanced fertility matters

Teagasc advisers have long argued that farmers who let soil fertility slip pay twice. First through lost yield, then through wasted fertiliser, because nutrients applied to deficient or acidic soils cannot deliver their full effect.

Lime is the starting point. Correcting pH unlocks both soil reserves and applied nutrients, making every subsequent spending decision on P and K more effective.

What should farmers watch next?

Soil Health Week serves as a reminder to test soils regularly and act on the results. Farmers should check their most recent soil analysis reports, address lime requirements first, then plan P and K to match crop and grazing demand across the season.

Teagasc advisory staff continue to publish guidance and run events as part of the campaign, giving growers a practical checklist for the season ahead.