Summary
Wallace reviews soil acidification as a consequence of excess fertilizer use, particularly nitrogen, identifying it as a major factor in global soil deterioration. The paper distinguishes between acidification from over-application of commercial fertilizers and that caused by differential plant cation–anion uptake, which occurs independently of fertiliser type. Key findings include that precise nitrogen matching to crop demand minimises acidification, that ammonium-N theoretical acidification is approximately double the values cited in fertilizer handbooks, and that legumes and no-till systems produce particularly pronounced acidification.
Regional applicability
The principles of nitrogen-driven soil acidification apply broadly across temperate and tropical agriculture; however, the paper provides no UK-specific data. The findings are relevant to UK arable and pasture management where nitrogen fertiliser use is widespread, particularly regarding precision application and no-till adoption.
Key measures
Soil acidification magnitude; theoretical acidification values for ammonium-N relative to fertilizer handbook values; pH change under different nitrogen application rates and tillage practices
Outcomes reported
The paper examines soil acidification caused by excess fertilizer application, particularly nitrogen, and identifies differential cation–anion uptake by plants as a key mechanism. It quantifies theoretical acidification values for ammonium-N and examines how tillage practice and plant species influence soil pH change.
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