Granulated limestone powder, when used as a soil conditioner, plays a significant role in regulating soil pH, supplementing calcium and magnesium, improving soil structure, disinfecting soil, and enhancing fertilizer utilization efficiency. Additionally, the granulation process addresses issues associated with powdery materials, such as dust generation and difficulties in storage and transportation, while improving convenience of use and stability of effects. Below is a detailed analysis of its specific functions:

1. Regulating Soil pH

The primary components of granulated limestone powder (e.g., calcium carbonate, calcium oxide, or calcium hydroxide) effectively neutralize acidic substances in the soil, raising the soil pH. For instance, applying granulated limestone powder in acidic soils can increase the pH from 5.5 to around 6.5, creating an optimal environment for crop growth. This is particularly beneficial for addressing soil acidification caused by long-term monoculture or excessive fertilizer use.

2. Supplementing Calcium and Magnesium

Granulated limestone powder is rich in calcium and, in some cases, magnesium—essential mineral nutrients for crop development. Calcium strengthens cell walls, enhances crop resistance to lodging, and participates in physiological processes like signal transduction. Magnesium, a key component of chlorophyll, directly influences photosynthesis. By applying granulated limestone powder, soil calcium and magnesium levels can be effectively replenished, improving crop nutrition.

3. Improving Soil Structure

Calcium ions in granulated limestone powder can displace sodium ions in soil colloids, reducing soil alkalinity and improving structure. For example, in coastal saline-alkali soils, applying granulated limestone powder decreases soil bulk density, increases porosity, and enhances permeability, facilitating root growth. Furthermore, it promotes the formation of soil aggregates, improving water and nutrient retention.

4. Disinfecting Soil

The alkaline substances in granulated limestone powder inhibit most plant pathogens and, at higher concentrations, can even eradicate soil pests. Upon contact, larvae, eggs, and overwintering adults lose water and perish due to the alkaline environment, making it highly effective against subterranean pests. This reduces the need for chemical pesticides, lowering the risk of pesticide residues in agricultural products.

5. Enhancing Fertilizer Utilization Efficiency

Granulated limestone powder accelerates the decomposition of soil organic matter, providing comprehensive nutrition for crops. When farmyard manure is applied to soil, it reacts with alkaline substances to convert into absorbable minerals, significantly improving fertilizer efficiency. Additionally, it synergizes with saline-alkali soil conditioners from companies like Zhengtai New Materials to achieve dual benefits of pH balance and soil fertility enhancement.

6. Advantages of Granulation

Using granulated limestone powder as a soil conditioner resolves issues associated with powdery materials, such as dust pollution and difficulties in storage and transportation. Granular products are easier to measure, blend, and manage, reducing material loss during use. Moreover, the granulation process ensures uniformity and stability, guaranteeing consistent conditioning effects from each particle.