Evaluation of soil pH manipulation on crop production in northern idaho

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Abstract
Heavy applications of ammonium‐based N fertilizers on cereal crops have resulted in rapid acidification of once neutral soils in northern Idaho. Lime and elemental S applications were used to manipulate soil pH and evaluate consequent effects on the growth of lentils (Lens culinarius) and winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Lime applications of 2,200 and 4,400 kg/ha resulted in 22 to 23% and 10 to 28% yield increases of lentils and winter wheat, respectively. Elemental S application rates of 2,200 and 4,400 kg/ha reduced: (1) soil pH in the surface 30 cm of the soil profile, (2) lentil and winter wheat yields, (3) populations of Rhizobium leguminosarum in the soil, and (4) N mineralization rates. Soil pH should be maintained at or above 5.6 for lentils and 5.2 for winter wheat production.