How application of agricultural waste can enhance soil health in soils acidified by tea cultivation: a review

Tea is one of the world's most consumed beverages and an important crop of many developing countries. Intensive tea cultivation has negative impacts on soil health properties and the environment. While soil acidification in tea plantations is a known severe issue, there is a lack of literature analysis of the ways in which soil acidification affects soil health, tea productivity and the environment, and suitable methods to control this issue. Here, we review the mechanisms of tea soil acidification and consequences, the potential of common agricultural wastes for ameliorating soil acidity and enhancing soil health and crop productivity, as well as reducing environmental pollution under tea cultivation. We show that intensive application of mineral nitrogen is the main cause of soil acidification in tea plantations, while tea plants also play a part in accelerating tea soil acidity. Agricultural waste and byproducts have a great potential to correct soil acidity, and to enhance soil health, tea productivity and quality. These soil amendments also have drawbacks such as metal and pathogen pollution, and supplementary costs.

Automated summary

Tea is one of the most consumed beverages worldwide, but there is a lack of literature analysis on the impact of soil acidification in tea plantations. Mineral nitrogen over-application is the main cause of soil acidification in tea plantations, while agricultural waste and byproducts have the potential to improve soil acidity and enhance soil health.