In addition to its use in building and construction, limestone’s diverse applications include air pollution control, treatment systems for drinking water and wastewater, soil stabilization, medicines, antacids, and cosmetics. Limestone is one of the most widely utilized of all earth materials. Typical application rates are measured in tons per acre. Neutralizing soil acidity is not a one-time process, however, and must be repeated periodically depending on soil and environmental conditions. Most commonly, farmers spread the lime uniformly on the soil and then mix it through the root zone. Lab testers can easily determine the quantity of ag lime needed to bring a soil to a desirable pH range. Improved nitrogen (N) fixation by legumes Įnhanced N mineralization and nitrification andīetter water use, nutrient recovery and plant performance with a healthier root system. Some secondary benefits of neutralizing soil acidity with ag lime include: ![]() Lime will reduce soluble Al through two reactions: CaCO₃ + H₂OICa²⁺ + 2OH⁻ + CO₂ and Al₃ + + 3OH – IAl(OH)₃ .Īdditions of ag lime also supply valuable Ca (and possibly Mg) for plant nutrition. Poor crop growth in acid soils largely results from too much soluble Al, which is toxic to the root system of many plants. The primary use of ag lime is to raise the pH of acid soils and reduce the concentration of aluminum (Al) in soil solution. Tools for Nano-Enabled Agriculture: Fertilizers Based on Calcium Phosphate, Silicon, and Chitosan Nanostructures. The presence of CaCO₃ in soil is detected by the effervescence or “fizz” when a drop of strong acid is applied. Ag lime is more soluble in acid soils than in neutral or alkaline soils. Ag lime effectiveness is rated based on its comparison with pure calcium carbonate (CaCO₃), a value that is expressed as the percent calcium carbonate equivalent (CCE). Other materials in the ag lime, such as clay, will reduce its purity and diminish the acid-neutralizing capacity. A measurement of particle size typically appears on the product label. Larger particles react slower, but provide a sustained, longer-term source of acid neutralization. Limestone of a smaller particle size reacts quickly because of the larger surface area exposed to chemical reaction. The fineness of the ag lime is important in determining how quickly it reacts with soil acidity. Many materials can be classified as ag lime.Īg lime is extracted from quarries or mines and usually requires mechanical crushing. An agricultural liming material (ag lime) is broadly defined as any substance containing Ca or magnesium ( Mg) and capable of neutralizing acidity. It has been used throughout much of recorded history as a building material, a cementing agent, and in agriculture to improve acid soils. ![]() Limestone is a common sedimentary rock found in widespread geologic deposits. The term “lime” can refer to several products, but for agricultural use it generally refers to ground limestone. Calcium carbonate, the chief component of limestone, is a widely used amendment to neutralize soil acidity and to supply calcium (Ca) for plant nutrition.
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