The Relations of Lime to Son, Imi'Kovic.ment. 627 



supply of lime: third, ample humus; fourth, good tillage; fifth, 

 fertilizers. 



Our neighboring states need nnich lime. Pennsylvania farmers 

 have led in its use. The New England states, New Jersey and Mary- 

 land are all emphasjzing the need of lime, and their need is not a whit 

 greater than that of the South Atlantic and Gulf states and those in 

 lower Mississippi valley. Study the detailed soil conditions and that 

 fact will become apparent. The fact that soil has been derived from 

 lime rock does not preclude that need. Many of those soils are mark- 

 edly low in lime and respond well to its use. Note that I ivould 

 emphasize not lime alone hut lime in connection with methods which ivill 

 increase humus. 



Ofiio is taking a lead in the advocacy of lime on large areas of her 

 soil. Within the last five years, Illinois and Missouri have come 

 prominently into the list of those states which recognize the need of 

 lime for the upbuilding of many of their soil types. While the need 

 is great and widespread, it is not a matter for a blanket recommenda- 

 tion, and I know of but one safe rule, — for each state institution and 

 each farmer to work out the local requirement. You will readily see 

 the field. We are now beginning to see over and through the old 

 adage that " lime enriches the father but beggars the son," to the 

 principle that lime nith manure and good management is good business. 



THE FORMS AND AVAH^ABH-ITV OF LIME. 



The base calcium is the determining factor in the value of various 

 forms of lime. We shall not discuss magnesia, the general chemical 

 action of which is the same as calcium. W'e would not recommend 

 the use of very high magnesian limes, especially on soils low in cal- 

 cium. The best forms to use will depend on five factors : 

 (i) The form in which calcium is united. 



(2) The actual amount of calcium contamed. 



(3) The availability of the compound. 



(4) The fineness of the material and the convenience and expense 



involved in its ajiplication to the soil. 



(5) The character and condition of the soil. 



I. Form of combination. Calcium is used in a number of com- 

 binations. In a pure form the calcium ecjuivalcnt in 100 pounds is 

 about as follows: 



