Synergistic Effects of Lime–Organic Amendment Interactions in Acidic Soils
Date
2026
Authors
Iticha, B.
Fitzpatrick, R.
Marschner, P.
Mosley, L.M.
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Journal article
Citation
European Journal of Soil Science, 2026; 77(1):e70276-1-e70276-16
Statement of Responsibility
Birhanu Iticha, Rob Fitzpatrick, Petra Marschner, Luke M. Mosley
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Abstract
Calcitic lime (CaCO₃) is commonly used to ameliorate soil acidity, but its effectiveness is limited by slow solubility. This study aims to evaluate interactive effects of lime (90% calcite, 6% quartz) and organic amendments on lime dissolution and soil acidity neutralisation. The experiment utilised various organic amendments with the following differing decomposability: (i) readily decomposable faba bean straw, and (ii) more resistant blended poultry litter, biochar, and compost, with average organic carbon mineralisation indices (OCMI) of 29%, 6%, 4%, and 6%, respectively. The lime–faba bean straw combination produced the highest partial pressure of CO₂ (pCO₂) (1398 μatm) compared to lime alone (375 μatm). The net average increase in dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) due to the synergistic interaction between lime and organic amendments ranged from +0.3 mg L⁻¹ for the lime–blended poultry litter treatment to +1.9 mg L⁻¹ for the lime–compost combination, representing a 2- to 5-fold increase. The dissolved organic carbon (DOC) content in lime–organic amendment mixes also increased by 29%–36% compared to organic amendments alone. The pCO₂/DIC ratio decreased when lime was combined with organic materials compared to when it was applied alone, indicating more efficient conversion of respired CO₂ to H₂CO₃* (* indicates this comprises both dissolved CO₂ and carbonic acid, H₂CO₃). A lower DIC/carbonate alkalinity (DIC/CarbAlk) ratio and a positive calcite saturation index (SIC) in the combined treatments further confirmed the increased generation of HCO₃− and CO₃²−, reducing acidity. The co-application of lime and organic amendments also mobilised Ca²⁺ while reducing potential Al3+ bioavailability and phytotoxicity. These beneficial synergies highlight the potential for improved acid soil remediation strategies using combined lime–organic matter amendments.
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Dissertation Note
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© 2026 British Society of Soil Science.