The effectiveness of lime in removing soil acidity is as follows:
1. Highly acidic soils are not productive. Applying lime can reduce soil acidity and enhance crop productivity.
2. Lime increases the availability of phosphorus in the soil.
3. Application of lime reduces the solubility of iron and aluminum, leading to less phosphorus binding to insoluble iron and aluminum.
4. Lime enhances the effectiveness of potassium. If there is excessive potash in the soil, plants may uptake more than necessary. Lime helps regulate this excess uptake.
5. Lime application is economically advantageous, as it promotes greater uptake of the less valuable calcium and reduces consumption of the more valuable potassium.
6. Lime accelerates organic matter decomposition, thereby increasing nitrogen availability in the soil.
7. Calcareous materials provided by lime contribute calcium and magnesium to the soil.
8. Applying lime to the soil causes harmful aluminum, manganese, and iron to become insoluble, mitigating their adverse effects.
9. Adequate lime application encourages beneficial soil bacteria.
10. Lime application improves soil physical condition and reduces soil erosion over time.
List of some lime products suitable for use in soil: Below are lime products that can be used in soil:
1. Dolomite limestone (CaCO₃, MgCO₃).
2. Calcite Limestone (CaCO₃).
3. Chalk or clay (CaCO₃).
4. Hydrated lime [Ca(OH)₂].
5. Magnesium oxide (MgO).
6. Powdered lime or quicklime (CaO).
7. Basic Slag (CaSiO₃).
8. Coral Limestone (CaCO₃).
9. Wood ash, oyster shell powder, etc.
10. Waste byproducts like acetylene lime, leather lime, etc.