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Lime-based fertilizers containing calcium are used by plants as a building block for cell walls and cell membranes. In addition many lime-based fertilizers are used to improve the soil structure (and ultimately soil life). Lime-based fertilizers are also a very good solution for soils with a too low pH, which can be negatively influenced by nitrogen and phosphate. At a too low pH level, the absorption of nitrogen and phosphorus decreases. By using lime, the same effect is achieved, but without negative influences. But which type of lime-based fertilizer is the most suitable? Many different types of lime fertilizers are available, each with different properties.

The different types of lime-based fertilizers that are available ensure that there is always a right solution for every crop and situation. For example, the speed at which a lime-based fertilizer takes effect is important. This is partly due to:

• Fineness

Powdered fertilizers are more likely to work than granular fertilizers because they can be absorbed immediately. When lime is used for maintenance of the property, the grain shape is advised. For continued maintenance, on the other hand, powdered lime is recommended.

• Moisture content

A dry fertilizer has a more rapid result than a moist fertilizer.
A moist fertilizer rinses more easily than a dry fertilizer.

• Magnesium content

A lower magnesium content is preferred as it allows a more rapid result. Therefore, if quick corrections are needed, it is recommended to use a low-magnesium lime-based fertilizer.

Lime-based fertilizers are often used in agriculture to prevent acidification of the soil. In order to compare the extent to which different lime-based fertilizers neutralize the soil, a fixed measure is used: the neutralizing value (NV).

The neutralizing value is shown by weight and is the number of ml of 0.357 M hydrochloric acid (HCl) neutralized by 1 gram of lime-based fertilizer. To find out how much product is needed, a soil recommendation will be issued in which an NV value is drawn up. The dosage can then be determined on the basis of this value.

The choice of a suitable lime-based fertilizer also strongly depends on the NV value. The lime-based fertilizers to be obtained are very different from NV. This value can be calculated as follows:

(CaCO3 content * 0.56) + (MgCO3 content * 0.67) or (CaO content * 1) + (MgO content * 1.4)

One NW equals 1 kg CaO.

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