Plants are living organisms just as humans and animals. This is even though there are clear-cut differences that we all know. But considering how plants, animals, and humans are living organisms, this means that there are similarities that are shared.
One of them is the need for a suitable environment. All of these organisms need to have their surroundings in the right state and shape. On that note, certain kinds of soil are not ideal for crop growth.
One of such soils is those that are acidic. Among other things, crops are not able to get the required nutrients to thrive in such soil. To better understand why this is the case, you can check out this article.
In light of this, the article intends to answer a very important question. The question centers on what needs to be done when we are faced with acidic soils and need to grow our crop(s). Are we supposed to leave the soil and look for a suitable one?
That is not the best way to go about this. The reason is that even that acidic soil can have its pH level adjusted to be ideal for planting. This can be done by making good use of agricultural lime.
The possibility of using agricultural lime for this purpose is good news for lots of plant and livestock farmers. Its benefits will be addressed here and so ensure that you keep reading to be well informed.
What Is Agricultural Lime?
This is a kind of lime product used for agricultural purposes. It is obtained from either chalk or pulverized limestone and acts in the capacity of an additive for the soil when applied. This kind of lime has a compound that is more active than any other and that is calcium carbonate.
Several companies are into the production of this type of lime considering its importance, especially for agricultural purposes. We have gathered that there are slight but important differences between the agricultural limes produced by these companies.
For instance, while calcium carbonate is undoubtedly the most active compound, some of these companies take the liberty to use some additional chemicals. Calcium oxide happens to be one of them from what we have gathered.
In addition to other things, the chemical composition of agricultural lime matters a lot. This is why you should make sure the agricultural lime that you choose to use contains the right composition in the right measure.
You should also take note of the fact that it is not only referred to as agricultural lime. There are places and circles where it is called names like aglime, garden limestone, liming, or agricultural limestone. So, you should not be confused if you hear these names.
Advantages of Using Agricultural Lime
Its use does not only benefit crops but livestock farmers as well. This is because it puts the soil in a state and shape where it is suitable for livestock. This is particularly important for certain livestock. By and large, some of the benefits of using it for agricultural purposes include the following:
1. Saves You from Using Toxic Fertilizers
Fertilizers help make the soil fertile. But this is how you should see it. Sometimes, the use of fertilizers only addresses the surface and not the real problem. This is why the fertilizer would have to be used over and over again.
In addition to this, there are fertilizers out there that contain many toxic chemicals. The good news is that using the right kind of aglime will help the soil.
For one, it would regulate the soil’s pH level to a point where nutrients will be easily distributed. This means that there will be little need for fertilizers (if any).
This way, you spend less on fertilizers. You even get to avoid the toxic ones that some farmers are forced to use because of claims that they are more effective.
2. Takes Care of the Pesticide Problem
For the most part, pesticides contain a lot of toxic chemicals. However, some farmers are forced to use them considering their battles with pests. This is considering how crop growth and its yield can be adversely affected by pests.
Well, the use of aglime is a better option. The reason is that it does not put the crop in a bad state because of toxic chemicals. On the more positive side, using aglime ensures that the soil is not suitable for pests.
3. Crop Enhancement
Frankly, this is a very broad way to explain the benefit of aglime. The reason is that there are several ways crops are enhanced by the use of aglime.
For example, the root system is strengthened. Another example is how legumes (most especially) enjoy improved nitrogen fixation.
On a Final Note
The use of aglime, especially in highly acidic soil is beneficial. It puts the soil in the right state and shape to house the crops. We have discussed a few of the benefits here and advice that you make the most of it as a plant and livestock farmer. However, you also need to make use of the right aglime when the need arises.
Article Submitted By Community Writer