Summary
This global meta-analysis examined the effectiveness of soil amendments—chiefly liming materials—in reducing soil acidity and improving crop yields on acidic soils worldwide. The synthesis suggests that soil pH amelioration through amendments yields measurable but variable crop productivity gains, with effectiveness likely dependent on amendment type, soil properties, climate, and crop choice. The findings offer quantitative guidance for farmers and policymakers managing acid soil constraints in different agricultural regions.
Regional applicability
The United Kingdom has substantial areas of naturally acidic soils, particularly in upland and western regions, where liming is an established practice. This meta-analysis's global perspective should help contextualise UK liming responses relative to international benchmarks, though UK-specific soil types and temperate maritime climate conditions may show distinct amendment efficacy patterns not fully captured in a worldwide synthesis.
Key measures
Soil pH change, crop yield response (likely expressed as percentage or absolute yield change), effect sizes across amendment types and soil/climate contexts
Outcomes reported
The study synthesised global data on how soil amendments (particularly liming materials) affect soil acidity reduction and consequent changes in crop yields across diverse acidic soil contexts. Results quantified the magnitude and variability of yield responses to soil pH amelioration across regions and crop types.
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