Crushed limestone is primarily used to reduce soil acidity levels. Liming soil is performed to ensure that crops undergo a successful and healthy growth. Aside from reducing soil acidity levels, some of the other effects of ag lime include providing a source of calcium for crops and plants, improving water penetration for acidic soils, as well as increasing the absorption of major plant nutrients such as phosphorus, potassium and nitrogen.
Crushed limestone is a form of lime produced from pulverised limestone. Crushed limestone acts as a soil conditioner that helps crops and plants grow and maintain soil acidity levels. Aside from agricultural lime, there are several other soil conditioners to choose from. While most of these other soil conditioners also come from limestone, they are used on specific cases and procedures.
Here are the different types of lime used in agriculture:
Pelletized Lime
Pelletized lime is a type of processed ag lime that is pulverised and broken down to even smaller granules. This type of lime is introduced to lignosulfonates which work to bind the pelletized lime together. This process helps reduce the amount of dust that may be kicked up during the application.
Liquid Lime
Liquid lime is a type of soil conditioner that consists of 50% dry crushed limestone and 50% water. Liquid lime is applied by spraying it through the acidic soil, making it a lot easier to control.
Dolomite
Dolomite is a type of soil conditioner made from crushed dolomite stones. Its purpose is to reduce the soil acidity levels and maintain plant growth. Aside from calcium carbonate, this material also has magnesium carbonate that is highly beneficial to crops and plants.