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The article discusses the significance of benchmarking in improving profits for arable farms. Topics discussed include impact of raising crop yields and cutting costs on business performance of farmers, concerns related to decline in premium market and additional haulage charges; and need for soil analysis in order to plan investments in liming and drainage.

The article highlights the significance of lime to a good agricultural practice in Great Britain. It mentions that lime improves soil structure and promotes optimum nutrient supply for plants through making nitrogen, phosphate, potash and sulphur more available. According to the author, present agricultural lime is exempted from aggregate tax.

Focuses on the guidelines produced by the Agricultural Lime Association to help farmers in making agricultural lime investments. Significance of specification to the suitability of the product; Factors to consider in determining the neutralizing value of the product; Suggestion on the percentage of the fineness of grinding.

Focuses on the cost benefits of liming, emphasized by the Agricultural Lime Association (ALA) of Great Britain. Results of trials which applied 2002 crop values and lime prices; Information on the Lime Calculator computer software from ALA.

The article focuses on the arrival of monsoons in Great Britain, providing a much needed boost to grass growth, however, some fields may be suffering a nitrogen shortage after high losses during the recent dry spell, as of May 27, 2003. Urea is even more prone to atmospheric losses than ammonium nitrate, particularly when coupled with spring lime applications. Many livestock producers have taken advantage of dry period of spring for 10 years and caught up with liming. Losses will also depend on whether there has been any dew.