Research update for the long-term subsoil acidity experiment (2016–2019)

Abstract

Key findings • Lime is the most effective amendment to increase pH and reduce exchangeable aluminium (Al). • Deep placement of organic materials had a limited effect on soil pH, but reduced exchangeable aluminium percentage (Al%) significantly. • The combination of lime with organic materials could facilitate alkalinity downwards in the soil profile in the short term. • However, applying a large amount of organic materials could acidify soil over a longer term due to nitrification. • No crop response was observed over the past three years due to severe drought conditions.