Soil acidity is a major factor influencing crop productivity, particularly in south-central Kansas and north-central Oklahoma. Many crops grown in this region are sensitive to low soil pH, which can limit nutrient availability, restrict root growth, and ultimately reduce yields. Understanding which crops are most affected and implementing proper soil management practices can help maximize production and long-term soil health.
Crops Sensitive to Acidic Soils
Several key crops grown in this region are susceptible to yield losses in acidic soils. Regular soil testing and corrective actions, such as lime application, can significantly improve crop performance.
Wheat
Wheat is one of the most widely grown crops in Kansas and Oklahoma, but it is highly susceptible to low soil pH. When soil pH falls below 5.5, aluminum toxicity can impair root development, limiting the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients and water. Research from Oklahoma State University indicates that approximately 24% of Oklahoma wheat fields have a soil pH lower than 5.5, reducing wheat yields by up to 30% if left uncorrected. (OSU Extension)
Alfalfa
Alfalfa is a high-yielding forage crop that requires a neutral to slightly alkaline soil pH. It struggles in acidic conditions, with significant yield reductions occurring below a pH of 6.0. Acidic soils interfere with nodulation and nitrogen fixation, reducing plant vigor and protein content in harvested forage. Studies from Kansas State University show that liming acidic soils can increase alfalfa yields by 30-40%. (K-State Research & Extension)
Corn
Corn is moderately sensitive to soil acidity, with optimal growth occurring in soils with a pH of 5.8 or higher. In acidic soils, corn experiences poor root development, reduced nutrient uptake, and lower yields. Research from University of Missouri Extension indicates that corn yields may decrease by 10-20% in soils with a pH below 5.5, primarily due to phosphorus deficiency and aluminum toxicity. (MU Extension)
Soybeans
Soybeans prefer soil pH levels between 6.0 and 6.5. In more acidic soils, nodulation and nitrogen fixation are reduced, limiting plant growth and yield potential. Studies from Iowa State University found that soybeans grown in soils with a pH below 5.5 can suffer yield losses of up to 15-20%, making soil pH management critical for profitable soybean production. (Iowa State Extension)
Sorghum
Sorghum is slightly more tolerant of acidic soils than other row crops, but it still experiences reduced yields when soil pH drops below 5.5. Acidic conditions restrict phosphorus uptake, a key nutrient for strong root development and early growth. Research from Missouri Extension has shown that sorghum yields decline by 8-12% in fields with a pH below 5.5. (MU Extension)
Cotton
Cotton requires a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimal nutrient availability and root health. When soil pH drops below 5.5, aluminum toxicity becomes a major issue, leading to stunted root growth and lower fiber quality. Studies from Yara International report that cotton yields can decline by 15-25% in acidic soils due to reduced potassium and calcium availability. (Yara USA)
Managing Soil Acidity for Maximum Yields
To combat the negative effects of soil acidity, growers in south-central Kansas and north-central Oklahoma should implement these best practices:
1. Regular Soil Testing
Soil pH should be tested at least every three years to track acidity levels and determine if corrective measures are needed. Deep soil testing (6-8 inches) is especially important in no-till systems where acidity can develop in the root zone. (K-State Extension)
2. Lime Application
Lime is the most effective way to neutralize soil acidity. The amount of lime needed depends on the soil pH, texture, and buffer capacity. Kansas research shows that liming acid soils can increase wheat yields by up to 25% and improve forage production in alfalfa and sorghum. Proper lime application ensures long-term soil health and improved nutrient availability. (K-State Agronomy eUpdate)
3. Phosphorus Management
Phosphorus availability declines in acidic soils, particularly for wheat, soybeans, and corn. Banding phosphorus fertilizer at planting can increase nutrient uptake and boost early plant growth in moderately acidic soils. This is particularly important for no-till and minimum-till farming systems. (Oklahoma State Extension)
4. Crop Rotation and Variety Selection
Planting acid-tolerant varieties of wheat, corn, and soybeans can help maintain productivity in fields with low pH. Additionally, rotating deep-rooted crops such as alfalfa can improve soil structure and nutrient cycling over time. (K-State Variety Guide)
By taking proactive steps to manage soil pH, producers in Kansas and Oklahoma can protect their crops from the harmful effects of acidity, ensuring long-term profitability and sustainable soil health.
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