Adding specific amendments like lime or dolomite is the most effective way to increase alkalinity in soil. This process, often called 'sweetening' the soil, helps raise the soil's pH when it is too acidic (below 6.5).
Understanding Soil Alkalinity and pH Adjustment
Soil alkalinity refers to the soil's pH level, with higher pH values indicating more alkaline conditions. When soil pH is below 6.5, it is considered acidic. To counteract this acidity and make the soil more alkaline, specific materials are added.
According to Yates, if your soil pH is sitting below 6.5, you have an acid soil and will need to increase the pH (make it more alkaline). This is also known as 'sweetening' the soil.
Key Materials to Increase Soil Alkalinity
The most common and effective materials used to increase soil alkalinity are:
- Lime (Calcium Carbonate): This is a widely available and highly effective material for raising soil pH. It primarily adds calcium to the soil, which helps neutralize acidity.
- Dolomite (Calcium Carbonate and Magnesium Carbonate): Similar to lime, dolomite also raises soil pH but provides the added benefit of supplying both calcium and magnesium, two essential plant nutrients.
These amendments work by introducing alkaline compounds into the soil, which react with acidic components and raise the pH towards a more neutral or alkaline state.
Amending Soil Acidity
| Material | Primary Components | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Lime | Calcium Carbonate | Effectively raises pH, provides calcium. |
| Dolomite | Calcium Carbonate, Magnesium Carbonate | Effectively raises pH, provides calcium and magnesium. |
For more information on soil pH and how to fix it, you can refer to resources like Yates's guide on soil pH.
