January 9, 2009

A dry granular source of calcified seaweed offering the potential to cut chemical fertiliser costs and improve uptake of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium is now available to British farmers.

According to Celtic Sea Minerals, SeaCal which is harvested off the south-western coasts of Ireland and Iceland, provides a rich source of calcium and magnesium to correct acidic soils.

Celtic spokesperson Derek Foster said soils are becoming increasingly acidic due to increased applications of slurry and nitrogenous fertilisers.

Foster said fertilisers such as urea contribute to faster removal of calcium from the soil which leaves pastures 'sour' with livestock reluctant to graze.

He said applying calcified seaweed can also help address other soil mineral imbalances and trace elements deficiencies.