On-Farm Evaluation of Corn and Soybean Grain Yield and Soil pH Responses to Liming

It is known that soil acidity can limit crop yield, but additional research is needed to identify more precisely optimum soil pH for corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] and the within-field variation in yield response to liming. The objective of this study was to identify optimum soil pH for these crops by studying the variation of soil pH and grain yield response to liming within several Iowa fields. Fourteen 4-yr strip-trials were established in acidic Molisols from 2007 to 2009. The methodology used global positioning systems (GPS), dense soil sampling (0.12-0.18-ha cells), yield monitors, and geographical information systems (GIS). One-time treatments replicated two to five times were an unlimed control and limestone at 6.72 Mg ha(-1) effective calcium carbonate equivalent (ECCE), incorporated into the soil in fields managed with tillage. Soil samples (15-cm depth) were collected before liming and annually after crop harvest. The lowest initial soil pH at each site ranged from 4.75 to 5.70. Maximum pH increase was reached 1 to 3 yr after liming. Grain yield response to lime varied greatly. Corn yield responded more frequently than soybean yield but the magnitude of the response did not differ consistently. Liming seldom increased yield with pH > 6.0 in soils having a high subsoil pH (>= 7.4) and CaCO3 within a 1-m depth but often increased yield up to pH 6.5 with lower pH subsoil. The results provided improved criteria for site-specific soil pH and lime management.