Why do clay soils require more lime than sandy soils at the same pH?
Clay soils are aluminosilicates and contain more potential acidity than sandy soils. As the pH falls below 5.5, aluminum become soluble at levels toxic to plants. In addition, soluble aluminum reacts with water to produce hydrogen ions, further reducing soil pH. Since clay soils generate more acidity than sandy soils, they require more lime to counteract it.
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