Synergistic Amelioration of Acidic Soils: A Review of Integrated Lime, Organic, and Inorganic Fertilizer Strategies

Abstract

Soil acidity is a critical global constraint on agricultural productivity, causing aluminum toxicity and nutrient deficiencies that severely limit crop growth. This review synthesizes evidence on the synergistic effects of integrating lime with organic and inorganic fertilizers for soil amelioration. Data from diverse agroecosystems demonstrate that combined applications are markedly superior to any amendment alone. Lime-organic combinations significantly increase soil pH, reduce exchangeable aluminum by up to 81%, and enhance phosphorus availability by over 460%. These soil improvements catalyze substantial yield increases, with maize, wheat, and soybean yields often doubling or more. The synergy works by concurrently neutralizing acidity, complexing toxic elements, and building soil organic matter, which improves nutrient cycling, cation exchange capacity, and water retention. This integrated approach provides a sustainable pathway for transforming degraded acidic soils into productive, resilient agricultural systems, offering a practical strategy to enhance food security and resource use efficiency.