'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.
Effects on soil:
★ it increases the
pH of
acidic
soils
★ it provides a source of
calcium for plants
★ it permits improved water penetration for
acidic soils
Lime may occur naturally in some soils but may require addition of
sulfuric acid for its agricultural benefits to be realized.
Gypsum is also used to supply calcium for plant nutrition. In livestock farming,
hydrated lime can be used, as a 'disinfectant' measure, producing a dry and
alkaline environment, in which
bacteria do not readily multiply.
Spinner style lime spreaders are generally used to spread agricultural lime on fields. Several companies such as
Stoltzfus Spreaders manufacture spreaders for this purpose.
See also
★
Lime
★
Marl