Acidic soils (pH below 6.0) require both pH adjustment and nutrient supplementation. Below are fertilizer recommendations for acidic soils:
1. Alkaline or Neutral Fertilizers (for pH Adjustment)
Lime-based materials:
Quicklime (CaO) or Hydrated lime (Ca(OH)₂): Rapidly neutralizes acidity but requires controlled application (typically 50-150 kg per mu). Calcium carbonate (CaCO₃): Gentle and long-lasting effect.
Dolomite powder: Supplies calcium and magnesium, ideal for magnesium-deficient acidic soils.
Application note: Apply in multiple stages to avoid over-liming; mix deeply into the soil for better results.
Wood ash:
Contains potassium (K₂O) and calcium, weakly alkaline. Apply in small, frequent doses (100-200 kg per mu) and avoid mixing with ammonium-based nitrogen fertilizers.
2. Suitable Chemical Fertilizers for Acidic Soils
Phosphate fertilizers:
Calcium magnesium phosphate (alkaline): Suitable for southern red soils, provides P, Ca, and Mg.
Rock phosphate (slow-release): Requires soil acidity for dissolution, good for long-term improvement.
Avoid: Superphosphate (acidic, may worsen soil acidity over time).
Nitrogen fertilizers:
Calcium nitrate or Sodium nitrate: Alkaline nitrogen sources, suitable for short-term pH adjustment.
Use cautiously: Ammonium sulfate and ammonium chloride (acid-forming, may increase soil acidity).
Potassium fertilizers:
Potassium sulfate (neutral): Minimal impact on pH.
Avoid excessive use: Potassium chloride (may acidify soil over time).
Micronutrients:
Acidic soils are often deficient in molybdenum (Mo)—supply with ammonium molybdate. Iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) are usually abundant and rarely need supplementation.
3. Organic Amendments
Well-decomposed organic manure (compost, animal manure):
Buffers pH and improves nutrient retention. Apply 2-3 tons per mu annually.
Green manure:
Grow legumes (e.g., clover, alfalfa) and till them into the soil to increase organic matter and reduce acidity.
4. Additional Considerations
Regular pH testing: Target pH 6.0–6.5 (optimal for most crops). Over-liming may reduce micronutrient availability.
Avoid acidifying fertilizers: Such as monoammonium phosphate (MAP) or ferrous sulfate (use only for iron deficiency correction).
Crop rotation: Include legumes to reduce nitrogen fertilizer dependency and slow acidification.
Summary Strategy
1. Adjust pH first: Apply lime or wood ash based on acidity levels.
2. Then fertilize: Prefer alkaline fertilizers (e.g., calcium magnesium phosphate, calcium nitrate) combined with organic matter.
3. Long-term management: Reduce ammonium-based nitrogen, increase organic inputs, and monitor soil regularly.
By integrating these measures, you can effectively neutralize soil acidity while ensuring balanced crop nutrition.