Effect of Soil Compaction and Application of Lime and Gypsum on Soil Properties and Yield of Soybean

Lime and gypsum application is one strategy for correcting soil acidity and improving soil fertility. However, soil compaction in no-till systems can influence these dynamics. This study aimed to assess the effect of lime and gypsum application under different soil compaction levels on soybean yield and soil chemical attributes. The application of lime and gypsum under artificial compaction levels and the movement of exchangeable calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+), potassium (K+), and soil pH were monitored in the 0-0.05, 0.05-0.10, 0.10-0.20, and 0.20-0.40 m soil layer depths. Soybean grain yield was not influenced by the gypsum and lime applications and artificial compaction levels. In the 0.05-0.1, 0.1-0.2, and 0.2-0.4 m soil layers, the exclusive surface application of lime was effective in increasing the soil pH. Ca2+ and Mg2+ carbonates had low solubility and mobility in the soil; however, a rapid reaction to the surface over a relatively short period was observed. K+ concentration in the 0-0.05 m soil layer did not vary after the gypsum and lime applications. Therefore, the superficial application of lime is effective in acidity correction in no-till systems when the soil is not compacted.

Automated summary

The application of lime on the soil surface can effectively increase soil pH and improve acidity in no-till systems. However, soil compaction has little impact on soybean yield under lime and gypsum applications.