Detailed Explanation of the Types and Properties of Lime Fertilizers

Commonly used lime fertilizers include quicklime, slaked lime (hydrated lime), limestone powder, and dolomite powder.

(1) Quicklime: It is made by placing limestone or shells into a kiln and heating and calcining them. Quicklime has a very strong ability to neutralize soil acidity, and it is a lime fertilizer commonly used by farmers. Because it is in lump form, it is generally mixed with an appropriate amount of water to make it powdery when applied.

(2) Slaked lime: Adding water to quicklime produces slaked lime. Its ability to neutralize soil acidity is also very strong, and it is convenient to apply, but it must not come into contact with seeds, seedlings, etc., because its temperature is high and its corrosiveness is strong; otherwise, the plants are easily injured.

(3) Limestone powder: Its main component is calcium carbonate, and it is made by directly crushing limestone. Its ability to neutralize soil acidity is slow. It contains various impurities; in addition to calcium carbonate, it also contains magnesium carbonate, etc.

(4) Dolomite powder: Its main components are magnesium carbonate and calcium carbonate, and its ability to neutralize soil acidity is also relatively slow.