What is limestone and why is its products used in farming?

Answer 1

Limestone (basically Calcium carbonate) is used to adjust the pH or acidity level of agricultural soils (and also domestic garden soils).

It is normally applied to soils which may be to acidic to support balanced plant growth (i.e. soils with a pH of less than 7) in an effort to neutralize the acidic effects and return the low pH value to a more neutral level (optimal pH range for plant growth is 5.5 to 7.5).

The amount of Limestone applied is determined by the rise in pH that you wish to achieve, in agricultural practice this is normally done by performing a soil pH test at an agricultural laboratory; the consultant will then prescribe the application rate of Limestone per hectare

Answer 2

Limestone is a sedimentary rock composed primarily of calcium carbonate. Its products are used in farming to raise soil pH levels and provide calcium to crops, which is essential for plant growth and development. Limestone helps improve soil structure, promotes nutrient availability, and reduces toxicities in the soil.

Answer 3

Limestone is a sedimentary rock consisting primarily of the mineral calcite (CaCO3). In farming it is used to make the soil less acidic.

Answer 4

It stops the soil from becomming too acidic by increasing the pH level