What is lime used for in soil management?

Lime is primarily used in soil management to raise the pH of acidic soils, making it the correct choice in this context. Acidic soils can hinder plant growth by making essential nutrients less available and increasing toxic elements like aluminum. When lime, which is alkaline (usually composed of calcium carbonate), is applied to these soils, it reacts with the soil particles to increase the pH level. This adjustment helps to create a more favorable environment for nutrient availability and healthy plant growth.

The action of lime on soil pH is essential for maintaining soil health and ensuring that crops or ornamental plants have access to the nutrients they require for optimal development. By raising the pH, lime can transform an acidic soil, which might have poor plant performance, into one that supports a wider variety of plants and promotes better yields.