Synergistic Effects of Lime with Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Soil Acidity and Crop Productivity

Soil acidity is a critical global constraint to agricultural productivity, causing nutrient deficiencies, aluminum toxicity, and impaired microbial function. While liming is a fundamental corrective practice, its efficacy and sustainability can be significantly enhanced through integration with organic and inorganic fertilizers. This systematic review synthesizes current research on the synergistic effects of these combined amendments on soil acidity amelioration and crop productivity. Our analysis demonstrates that co-application consistently outperforms single amendments, leading to a more substantial increase in soil pH, a greater reduction in exchangeable aluminum, and improved nutrient availability and retention. These soil improvements translate directly into significant enhancements in crop growth, yield, and nutrient uptake. The mechanisms underpinning these synergies include improved lime dissolution and buffering capacity from organic matter, complexation of toxic aluminum ions, and stimulation of microbial communities that drive nutrient cycling. Furthermore, integrated nutrient management mitigates the accelerated acidification often associated with sole mineral fertilizer use. This review concludes that the judicious combination of lime, organic materials, and inorganic fertilizers represents a potent strategy for sustainable intensification of agriculture on acid soils. It offers a pathway to enhance productivity, improve long-term soil health, reduce environmental impacts, and contribute to global food security. Future research should focus on optimizing application protocols for specific agro-ecological contexts and elucidating the long-term dynamics of these interactions.