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Old 12-02-2003, 01:25 AM
FarmerDill
 
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Default calcium and acidity question

6...
have heard that certain elements are unAvailable in acidic environments
for ex calcium and wonder whether i should supplement these with calcium
containing fertilizer (even though the soil pH is only minimally acidic
(since i am assuming that the tap water is the calcium source)
thank you!

Soluble calcium salts or hydroxides combine with acids to form insoluble or
less soluble calcium salts, That's why you use gound limestone (calcium
carbonate) to to raise the pH of acid soils or take TUMS (also calcium
carbonate) to raise the pH of your tummy, As long as a soluble calcium salt is
available it is looking fo an acid to neutralize. Fortunately acid loving
plants have low calcium requirements.

dill