Summary
This meta-analysis of 26 field experiments examined the economic and environmental case for liming acid soils in Western Kenya maize production. Whilst liming consistently increased yields on soils with pH 4.0–5.7, profitability depended critically on concurrent fertiliser application; substantial GHG emissions from lime production were offset when emissions were normalised to grain output in high-yield scenarios.
Regional applicability
This study is specific to Western Kenya's agroecological conditions and smallholder farming contexts. Whilst the pH range and maize focus may have limited direct applicability to United Kingdom arable systems (where soil pH is typically managed differently and acidity is less prevalent), the methodological approach to integrated economic–environmental trade-off assessment could inform UK policy on soil amendment investments.
Key measures
Soil pH change, maize yield (tonnes per hectare), farm profit (including labour costs), return on investment (five-year period), greenhouse gas emissions per tonne of lime applied and per tonne of grain produced
Outcomes reported
The study quantified effects of lime application on soil pH and maize yields through meta-analysis of 26 field experiments, and assessed associated farm profitability and greenhouse gas emissions over a five-year period. Key findings included yield increases, profit outcomes conditional on fertiliser use, and GHG emission trade-offs when yields improved.
Topic tags
Dig deeper with Pulse AI.
Pulse AI has read the whole catalogue. Ask about this record, its theme, or how the findings apply to UK farming and policy — every answer cites the underlying studies.