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 UK farmers.

SeaCal, harvested off the south-west coasts of Ireland and Iceland by Celtic Sea Minerals of Co Cork, provides a rich source of calcium and magnesium to correct acidic soils, says the company.

Derek Foster from Celtic Sea Minerals says soils are becoming increasingly acidic due to increased applications of slurry and nitrogenous fertilisers. "Fertilisers such as urea contribute to the faster removal of calcium from the soil. This can leave pastures 'sour' with livestock reluctant to graze," says Mr Foster.

"Applying calcified seaweed can also help address other soil mineral imbalances and trace elements deficiencies."

The granular source of SeaCal also means it can be applied to land using a standard fertiliser spreader. To maintain soil for three years an application arte of 250kg/acre is recommended.