Agricultural Lime Recommendations Based on Lime Quality

Authors

Greg Schwab, University of KentuckyFollow
Lloyd W. Murdock, University of KentuckyFollow
David C. Ditsch, University of KentuckyFollow
Monroe Rasnake, University of KentuckyFollow
Frank J. Sikora, University of KentuckyFollow
Wilbur Frye, University of Kentucky

Abstract

Soil acidity is one of the most important soil factors affecting crop growth and ultimately, yield and profitability. It is determined by measuring the soil pH, which is a measure of the amount of hydrogen ions in the soil solution. As soil acidity increases, the soil pH decreases. Soils tend to be naturally acidic in areas where rainfall is sufficient to cause substantial leaching of basic ions (such as calcium and magnesium), which are replaced by hydrogen ions. Most soils in Kentucky are naturally acidic because of our abundant rainfall. Some nitrogen fertilizers are also a source of soil acidity, so fields with a history of N applications likely will be more acidic.

Publication Date

3-2007

Publication Number

ID-163

Notes

Click here to access the latest version of this publication (ID-163).

Repository Citation

Schwab, Greg; Murdock, Lloyd W.; Ditsch, David C.; Rasnake, Monroe; Sikora, Frank J.; and Frye, Wilbur, "Agricultural Lime Recommendations Based on Lime Quality" (2007). Agriculture and Natural Resources Publications. 76.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/anr_reports/76