Agricultural lime - Definition

Agricultural lime is a soil additive made from pulverized limestone or chalk. The primary active component is calcium carbonate. Additional chemicals vary depending on the mineral source and may include calcium oxide, magnesium oxide and magnesium carbonate.

Affects on soil;

• raised pH of acidic soils
• source of Calcium for the plants
• improved water penetration for acidic soils

Agricultural lime may occur naturally in some soils but require addition of sulfuric acid for its agriculturial benefits to be realized.

Gypsum is also used to supply calcium for plant nutrition but will not raise the soil's pH.

See also

• Marl