Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis

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Phosphorus Sorption Characteristics of Acidic

Luvisols and Nitisols under Varying Lime Rates,
and Response Validation Using Wheat

Yishak Beyene, Fanuel Laekemariam, Alemayehu Kiflu, Gifole Gidago, Lakew

Getaneh & Alemu Andualem

To cite this article: Yishak Beyene, Fanuel Laekemariam, Alemayehu Kiflu, Gifole Gidago, Lakew
Getaneh & Alemu Andualem (2022): Phosphorus Sorption Characteristics of Acidic Luvisols and
Nitisols under Varying Lime Rates, and Response Validation Using Wheat, Communications in Soil
Science and Plant Analysis, DOI: 10.1080/00103624.2022.2070637

To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.1080/00103624.2022.2070637

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COMMUNICATIONS IN SOIL SCIENCE AND PLANT ANALYSIS
https://doi.org/10.1080/00103624.2022.2070637

Phosphorus Sorption Characteristics of Acidic Luvisols and Nitisols

under Varying Lime Rates, and Response Validation Using Wheat
Yishak Beyenea, Fanuel Laekemariam b, Alemayehu Kiflu c
, Gifole Gidagob,
Lakew Getaneh b, and Alemu Andualemb
a
College of Agriculture, Wachemo University, Hosaena, Ethiopia; bCollege of Agriculture, Wolaita Sodo University,
Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia; cCollege of Agriculture, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia

ABSTRACT ARTICLE HISTORY

This study investigated phosphorous (P) sorption characteristics under lime Received 22 November 2021
rates, and validated them under field conditions. Soil samples from nitisols and Accepted 22 February 2022
luvisols were taken, mixed with lime(tha−1) at[0,0], [5.25, 3.75], [10.5, 7.5] and KEYWORDS
[15.75, 11.25], respectively, and incubated for 30 days. It was equilibrated with Ethiopia; external
KH2PO4 at 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 mgPL−1. The data were tested with phosphorus requirement;
Freundlich and Langmuir models. External P requirement (EPR) and changes Freundlich model; Langmuir
in chemical properties were evaluated. The field validation on wheat involved model; lime; soil types
rates of P (0, 8.2, 16.4, 24.6, 32.9, and 41.1 kg ha−1) and lime (0, 650, and
1300 kgha−1) in a randomized complete block design with three replications.
Freundlich was found the best-fitted model. Freundlich coefficient (Kf) ranged
from 212 to 45 mgPkg−1 (nitisols) whereas it was 112.7 to 16.29 mgPkg−1
(luvisols). EPR (kgPha−1) without and the highest lime rate were: nitisols (142.5
and 52.32 kgPha−1) and luvisols (124.84 and 25.94 kgPha−1). Liming reduced
EPR by 63.3% (nitisols) and 79.3% (luvisols). Liming increased soil pH from
[4.55 to 6.60 in the nitisols, and 5.33 to 6.51 in luvisols]; exchangeable acidity
(cmol(+)kg−1) 3.84 to 0.01 nitisols, and 0.72–0.05 luvisols, and available P (mg/
kg) 3.2–6.32 nitisol, and 2.74–8.72 luvisols. Furthermore, applying 32.9 kgPha−1
x 1300 kgha−1 lime resulted in grain yield (4345.2 kgha−1) that was 449% more
than the untreated crop (791.3 kgha−1). The validation result suggested higher
P than blanket P recommendation. It also justifies that excess P or lime alone
cannot be a complete solution for P management and increased yield.

Introduction
Soil acidity is a critical issue requiring urgent attention because of its impact on crop production and
productivity (Fanuel and Kibebew 2021; Melese and Yli-Halla 2016; Tessema, Argaw, and Adgo 2012).
In acid soils, phosphorus (P) is highly fixed due to intensive weathering and the leaching of basic
cations attributed to high rainfall conditions (Fanuel and Kibebew 2021; Habtamu 2015). Acidity is
also associated with aluminum (Al), iron (Fe), hydrogen (H), manganese (Mn) toxicities to plant roots
in the soil solutions and also cause corresponding deficiencies of the available phosphorus (av. P),
calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg) and potassium (K)(Kisinyo et al. 2014). Significant P fixation and its
precipitation as iron and aluminum phosphates are widespread in acidic soils (Shen et al. 2001) This
situation is very common in Luvisols and Nitisols.
Nitisols and Luvisols are soils with deep, well-drained, red tropical soil having high clay content
(IUSS 2014). In red soils with high clay content, there could be P fixation (Birru, Heluf, and Gupta
2003; Brady and Well 2008) and there is a need to study sorption characteristics. In acidic soils,

CONTACT Fanuel Laekemariam maedotmeklit@gmail.com College of Agriculture, Wolaita Sodo University, P.O.Box 138,
Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia
Supplemental data for this article can be accessed online at https://doi.org/10.1080/00103624.2022.2070637
© 2022 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC
2 Y. BEYENE ET AL.

adsorption of P on surfaces of Al and Fe oxides is primarily responsible for P sorption. Hence,

information on P sorption characteristics of soils based on sorption models is important for designing
appropriate P management strategies for high P fixing soils, and for making profitable fertilizer
recommendations (Zhang et al. 2005). Knowledge of P sorption characteristics enables the determina­
tion of the external P requirement (EPR), which is the amount of P that must be sorbed by soil to
maintain a P concentration of 0.2 mg kg−1 in soil solution (Fox 1981). For instance, the adsorption
capacity ranged from 222.7 to 333 mg kg−1 for some soils of Luvisols, Vertisols, and Fluvisols (Fekadu,
Wassie, and Gashaw 2017), 680.27 to 1112.11 mg kg−1 for some acid soils of Eutric Nitosols, Leptosols,
and Pellic Vertisols (Ayenew et al. 2018), 2072 to 2792 mg kg−1 for lime amended Ultisols and Alfisols
in Western Ethiopia (Abdenna et al. 2020).
Development of fertilizer recommendations based on crop response and soil test correlation
methods are expensive and time-consuming practices. Thus, for elements such as P, studies on soil
sorption and subsequent modeling of the resulting data could provide reliable, fast, and profitable
fertilizer dose recommendations for a particular soil (Zinabu, Wassie, and Dhyna 2015). In this
regard, Langmuir and Freundlich’s models are the most widely used to describe P-sorption
characteristics of soils and draw EPR (Fekadu, Wassie, and Gashaw 2017; Ayenew et al. 2018).
Different scholars working on different soil types reported an EPR ranged from 63.0 to 153.8 mg
P kg−1 for some soils of Luvisols, Vertisols, and Fluvisols (Fekadu, Wassie, and Gashaw 2017), 50.50
to 154.0 mg P kg−1 for some acid soils of Eutric Nitosols, Leptosols, and Pellic Vertisols (Ayenew
et al. 2018), and 312 to 632 mg P kg−1 for lime amended Ultisols and Alfisols in Western Ethiopia
(Abdenna et al. 2020). The findings of scholars have also indicated that farmers have been applying
the amount far below the crop requirement and blanket P recommendations. Meanwhile, Abdenna
et al. (2020) observed that EPR was influenced by the lime application. Liming can correct P fixation
in acid soils, and raises soil pH to the level that is suitable for optimum nutrient availability, and
increases soil av. P, Ca, Mg, and microbial activities (Aboytu 2019; Kisinyo 2016; Temesgen et al.
2017).
Lime application rate depends on the extent of acidity, crop type, soil texture, and soil type (Fanuel
and Kibebew 2021). For example, Alemayehu, Sheleme, and Schoenau (2017), reported 9.75 tons
CaCO3 ha−1 lime rate for some barley (Hordeum vulgare), enset (Ensete ventricosum), potato (Solanum
tuberosum), and wheat (Triticum aestivum) planted at Typic Paleustults soil type, and Adane (2014),
reported 2.5 tons CaCO3 ha−1 for Nitisols of silty clay in texture. Furthermore, in the highlands of east
Kenya lime requirements (11.35–21.85 tons CaCO3 ha−1) and the west (5.28–9.84 tons CaCO3 ha−1)
for maize (Zea mays L.) growing orphic Acrisols, orphic Ferralsols, chromic Ferralsols, Andosols, and
Nitisols was reported (Kisinyo et al. 2013). Overall, the variation in P sorption characteristics, EPR,
and liming rate among soil types and spaces raised an interest to understand P sorption characteristics
and generate site/crop-specific management options. Therefore, the objectives of the present study
were to investigate P sorption characteristics and the influence of lime on P sorption and selected soil
chemical properties in the nitisols and luvisols of Southern Ethiopia. In addition, to validate the
estimated EPR under field using wheat as a test crop.

Materials and methods

Description of study area
The study was conducted in the research farms of Wolaita Sodo University, namely, the Farawocha
farm (Wolaita Zone) and Kechi farm (Dawro Zone), Southern Ethiopia (Figure 1). The Farawocha
farm lies between 7°6ʹ34.33” to 7°9ʹ0.234” N and 37°34ʹ54.296” to 37°37ʹ33.431” E. It covers an
estimated area of 4 ha with an average altitude of 1592 masl. The site has a gentle slope (4–6%). The
soil type is Nitisols (FAO 2006). The Kechi farm lies between 7°5ʹ37.986” to 7°1ʹ4.114” N and 36°
57ʹ5.45” to 37°0ʹ26.565” E. The total area of the farm is 160 ha with an altitude of 2090 masl. The soil
type of the farm is Luvisols (FAO, 2006).
 COMMUNICATIONS IN SOIL SCIENCE AND PLANT ANALYSIS 3

Figure 1. Location map of study areas, SNNPRS in Ethiopia and Dawro and Wolaita Zone in SNNPRS (a), Location of study areas in
Dawro and Wolaita Zone (b), Kechi (c) and Farawocha (d) sites.

Crop type
The dominant crops grown in Farawocha area include avocado (Persea americana), banana (Musa
balbisiana), cassava (Manihot esculenta), ginger (Zingiber officinale), maize (Zea mays), taro (Colocasia
esculenta), and teff (Eragrostis abyssinica). In Kechi, the crops grown include avocado (Persea
americanaMill.), barley (Hordeum vulgare), beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), banana (Musa acuminate
Colla), enset (Ensete ventricosum), coffee (Coffea arabica), mango (Mangifera indica). pea (Pisum
sativum), potato (Solanum tuberosum) and wheat (Triticum aestivum).

Climate
For the Farawocha site, the 10 years (2010–2019) monthly temperature ranges from 13°C to 25°
C with annual rainfall ranging from 1184 to 1854 mm (Figure 2) whereas, at Kechi, the monthly
temperature ranges from 14°C to 24°C and an annual rainfall of the area varies from 1443 to
2535 mm (Figure 3) (PDAV, 2020).

Sample preparation and soil analysis

Soil samples were collected at a depth of 0–20 cm with 10 subsamples to make a composited soil
sample. They were processed (air-dried, ground, and passed through 2 and 0.5 mm sieves) and
analyzed for selected chemical and physical properties. Soil particle size distribution was determined
by the Bouyoucos hydrometer method (Van Reeuwijk 1992) after destroying OM using hydrogen
4 Y. BEYENE ET AL.

Average Climatic Data for Farawocha site (2010-2019)

250 35
30
200

Temperature (OC)
25

RF (mm)
150 20
100 15
10
50
5
0 0
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Months

RF Minimum Temp Maximum Temp

Figure 2. Climatic data for Farawocha site.

Average Climatic Data for Kechi site (2012-2021)

300 50
45
250 40

Temperature (OC)
35
200
RF (mm)

30
150 25
20
100 15
10
50
5
0 0
Months
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

RF Minimum Temp Maximum Temp

Figure 3. Climatic data for Kechi site.

peroxide and dispersing the soils with sodium hexametaphosphate. The pH of the soils was measured
in water suspension in a 1:2.5 (soil: liquid ratio) potentiometrically using a glass-calomel combined
electrode (Van Reeuwijk 1992). The Walkley and Black (1934) wet digestion method was used to
determine soil organic carbon content. The total nitrogen (TN) was determined by the Kjeldahl
method (Bremner 1960).
Available phosphorous (av. P), calcium (Ca2+), potassium (K+), magnesium (Mg2+), sodium (Na+),
sulfur (S), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn) and boron (B) were extracted according
to the procedure of Mehlich-3 (Mehlich 1984). The concentration of elements in the supernatant was
measured using an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectrometer. The exchangeable acidity (Al3+
and H+) was measured by displacement with 1 M KCl and titration with 0.05 M sodium hydroxide
(NaOH) (Sahlemedhin and Taye 2000). Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) of soils was determined by
the ammonium acetate method (Sahlemedhin and Taye 2000).

Treatments and experimental design

The treatments for each soil type (Nitisols and Luvisols) comprised of four lime (CaCO3) rates (0%, 50%,
100% and 150% of LR ton ha−1) in three replicates. The experiment was designed and arranged in
a completly randomized design (CRD). Thus, 12 treatments of each soil type were evaluated. Lime
requirement (LR) was determined by the SMP procedure (Shoemaker, Mc Lean and Prattr) (Shoemaker,
McLean, and Pratt 1961). The LR based on SMP of soil types are presented as follows:
 COMMUNICATIONS IN SOIL SCIENCE AND PLANT ANALYSIS 5

(A) LR pH 6.3 Nitisols

LRðSMPÞ¼ 1:867ðBpHÞ2 31:82ðBpHÞþ131:23

(1)
where BpH ¼ buffer pH
LRðSMPÞ¼ 1:867ð5:7Þ2 31:82ð5:7Þþ131:23 where 5.7 was BpH of Nitisols
¼ 60:65 181:3 þ 131:23 ¼ 10:5t=ha ¼ 100%CaCO3
Accordingly, the equivalent LR (t/ha) applied in Nitisols was 0% (0), 50% (5.25 t/ha), 100% (10.5 t/ha)
and 150% (15.75 t/ha).

(B) LR pH 6.3 Luvisols

LRðSMPÞ ¼ 1:867ð6:0Þ2 31:82ð6:0Þ þ 131:23

(2)
where 6:0 was BpH of Kechi

¼ 67:21 190:92 þ 131:23 ¼ 7:5t=ha ¼ 100%CaCO3

Accordingly, the equivalent LR (t/ha) applied in Luvisols was 0% (0), 50% (3.75 t/ha), 100% (7.5 t/ha)
and 150% (11.25 t/ha).
Then, from the bulk sample of each site, 1 kg of soil was measured into 200 ml polythene bag and
thoroughly mixed with equivalent weights of lime treatments (0%, 50%, 100%, and 150% of ton ha−1
LR). The soil mixed with lime was incubated for 30 days at approximately field capacity water content
to allow the lime to react with the soils after which the soils were air-dried for P sorption studies with
a non-limed sample.

Phosphorous sorption
After 30 days of incubation, the soils were air-dried at ambient temperature (20–25°C), sieved
through a 2 mm sieve, and were used to study P sorption characteristics. Phosphorus sorption
characteristics were determined by the batch equilibrium method in which soil samples were
agitated with known concentrations of P solutions (Graetz and Nair 2008). Phosphorus as KH2
PO4 was dissolved in a 0.01 M solution of CaCl2 (calcium chloride) in distilled water. The CaCl2
solution is used as the aqueous solvent phase to improve centrifugation and minimize cation
exchange (Fuhrman et al. 2004).
To study the P sorption, a 2 g air-dried incubated soil sample was placed in a 100 ml plastic bottle of
30 ml 0.01 M CaCl2 (Fernandes and Coutinho 1994). The sample was mixed continuously with
a constant agitation speed of 350 rpm for better mass transfer with a high interfacial area of contact.
Afterward, the calculated amount of stock solution of P for each rate was added. The concentrations of
the stock solution were 0, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 mgPL−1 (KH2PO4). Each sorption set for P was
replicated three times. The mixture was shaken at 25°C on a reciprocal shaker for 24 hr (Graetz and
Nair 2008). After equilibration time, the suspension was filtered through Whatman paper No. 42 filter
paper and the concentration of P in the clear extract was determined by the ascorbic acid method.
A blank was run for each soil with the same amount of soil and total volume of 30 ml 0.01 M CaCl2
solution (without P) and it was subjected to the same procedure. This serves as a background control
during the analysis to detect interfering compounds or contaminated soils. The P sorption data for the
soils were fitted into the following equation such as Langmuir and Freundlich.
Langmuir equations (Kleinman and Sharpley 2002)
C 1 C
¼ þ (3)
X Xmk Xm
6 Y. BEYENE ET AL.

where C (mg L−1) is the equilibrium concentration,

X (mg kg−1) is the amount of P adsorbed per unit mass of adsorbent,
k(L mg−1) is a constant related to the energy of sorption, and
Xm (mg kg−1) is P sorption maximum.
ðCo Cf Þ
X is calculated as V (4)
mas of soil

where Co is the initial concentration,

Cf is the final concentration and V is the volume of solution.
The linear form of equation (3) was obtained by plotting the equilibrium concentration of phosphate
(C) against the amount of phosphate adsorbed (C/X) and the slope of the graph equals 1/Xm and the
intercept of the graph equals to 1/Xmk. From the regression equation, the reciprocal of the slope was
taken as adsorption maxima and the value of the k was obtained by dividing the slope by intercept.
Freundlich equation: (Zhang et al. 2005)
1
LogX ¼ LogKf þ LogC (5)
n
where: X (mg kg−1) = Amount of P adsorbed per unit mass of soil, and C (mg L−1) is the equilibrium
concentration, Kf (mg kg−1) = Capacity factor (Shayan and Davey 1978), and 1/n = a constant related to
bonding energy (Siradz 2008). The linear graph and regression equation of P sorption curves for each
soil were drawn by plotting the quantity of sorbed P (i.e. Log X) against P concentration (i.e. Log C) in
the equilibrated soil solution (Fox 1981). The slope and intercept were taken as 1/n and Kf respectively.

External P-requirement (EPR) in response to lime application

The external P requirements (EPR) of the soils were determined by substituting the desired
P concentration (0.2 mg P L−1) in the soil solution into the fitted Langmuir and Freundlich equations
(Bolland, Otabbong, and Barberis 2001; Fekadu, Wassie, and Gashaw 2017). The soil solution
concentration of P at 0.2 mg L−1 (SPC) provides P adequately for many crops if it is maintained
throughout the growing period and medium. The soil solution P at 0.2 mg L−1 is the amount of P that
should be available in the soil for optimum plant growth. The EPR was calculated by two models
described above (Equations 3 and 5).

Changes in selected soil properties after lime application

Changes in selected soil chemical properties after lime application were evaluated. This includes pH,
available P, exchangeable bases (Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, and Na+) exchangeable acidity (Al3+, Fe3+ and H+),
and soil micronutrients (Cu, Mn, Zn and B) and S. It was determined to follow the standard procedure
indicated above.

Field experiment
The field experiment consisted of six rates of P (0, 8.2, 16.4,24.6,32.9 and 41.1 kg P applied in the form
of NPSB fertilizer (19% N, 16.4 P, 7% S and 0.1% B) and three rates of lime (0, 650, and 1300 kgha−1).
NPSB fertilizer rates was equivalent to 0, 50, 100,150,200, and 250 kgha−1. The experiment was laid out
in factorial combination in randomized complete block design with three replications. In addition, 50
kgha−1 KCl (60% K2O), and 100 kg urea (46% N) were used as supplements. Bread wheat variety
Alidoro which was developed and released by Kulumsa Agricultural Research Center (KARC) in 2007
was used as a test crop. The plot size was 2 m x 2 m (4 m2) which consisted of eight rows. The plant
 COMMUNICATIONS IN SOIL SCIENCE AND PLANT ANALYSIS 7

spacing was 25 cm between rows with a seeding rate of 125 kg ha−1. All NPSB and KCl fertilizer were
applied at the time of sowing and urea were applied by split application of which 25% was at the
sowing and 75% at tillering stage.
The field lime requirement was estimated based on exchangeable acidity as follows
g
kg of soil�0:20m�10 m2�B:D:ðcm3Þ�1000�1:5
CmolEA 4
Lime requirement ¼ 2000 and PAS

Where, 0.20 m is the plow depth; 104 m2 is an area for 1 ha of land; EA is exchangeable acidity; B.D is
soil bulk density of the soil multiplied by 1000 to convert g cm−3 to kg m−3 and a 1.5 multiplication factor
was adopted based on a recommendation by Birhanu et al. (2016). For the assumption that the permissible
acid saturation percentage (PAS) level for wheat is 10% (Fanuel and Kibebew 2021). Lime was applied one
month before planting to all plots at once in broadcast and incorporated into the soil by using a hoe.
At full maturity, the crop was harvested, then threshed, and converted to kg ha−1. The yield was
adjusted to 12.5% moisture to ensure uniform treatment comparison.

ð100 MCÞ
Adjusted grain yield ¼ Grain yield obtainedðkg per haÞx
ð100 12:5Þ

Where MC- is the moisture content of bread wheat grains at the time of measurement and 12.5 is the
standard moisture content of bread wheat in percent. Finally, yield per plot was converted to kg ha−1

Statistical data analysis

Analysis of variance for P sorption and field experiment data were carried out using Statistix 8 software.
Mean separation was done using the Least Significant Difference (LSD) test at a 5% probability level. In
addition, descriptive statistics and correlation analysis using Statistix 8 software was employed.

Results and discussion

Selected soil physico-chemical properties
The selected soil physical and chemical properties before treatment application are presented in
Table 1. The soil types have clay texture with soil bulk density values of 1 g cm−3 in Luvisol and
1.2 g cm−3 in Nitisol.
The soil pH (H2O) was 4.5 (Nitisol) whereas it was 5.3 in Luvisol. According to the rating set by
EthioSIS (2014), the soil pH was strongly acidic. It indicates the presence of substantial quantities of
ex. H+, Fe3+ and Al3+ ions. Exchangeable acidity and Al3+ values in their order were 3.84 and 4.18 cmol
(+)kg soils at Nitisols whereas 1.47 and 0.72 cmol(+)kg soils in the Luvisols. According to Kisinyo
(2014), ex. Al3+ > 2 cmol(+)kg is considered as excess for many crops and at pH < 5 high ex. Al3+ led to
P sorption (Obura 2008; Kisinyo et al. 2013; Kisinyo, 2014). Al Baquy et al. (2017) indicated that with
a decrease in soil pH, more Al ions were released from the soil mineral structure and occupied the
exchangeable sites on soil surfaces; thus, increasing soil ex. Al.
The soil OC contents were 2.44% in Nitisol and 3.97% in Luvisol (Table 1) and categorized under
low content (2–4%) ((Landon 2014). Soil TN varied from 0.17% (Nitisol) and 0.44% (Luvisol) and was
rated under low and medium, respectively (Landon 2014). The available P content of the soils was very
low (EthioSIS, 2014). This might be attributed to the impacts of fixation, abundant loss by crop
harvest, erosion, and the inherent P deficiency of the soils since little or no P fertilizers are applied
(Zeleke and Netsanet 2015). The available S of Nitisol qualifies as optimum while it was low under
Luvisol (Ethiopian Soil Information System 2014). Different authors associate the lower S content with
low OM as it is the major source of total S on the surface soils (Fanuel and Kibebw, 2020; Habtamu
8 Y. BEYENE ET AL.

Table 1. Surface soil characteristics of Farawocha (Nitisols) and Kechi (Luvisols) sites before liming.
Parameter Unit Farawocha site Kechi site
Soil Particle size distribution
Sand % 24 20
Silt % 24 38
Clay % 52 42
Soil texture Clay Clay
Bulk Density g/cm3 1.2 1
pH 4.5 5.3
Exchangeable Acidity cmol(+)kg−1 4.18 1.47
Exchangeable Hydrogen cmol(+)kg−1 0.33 0.75
Exchangeable Aluminum cmol(+)kg−1 3.84 0.72
% OC % 2.44 3.97
% TN % 0.17 0.44
Available P mgkg−1 3.2 2.74
Sulfur mgkg−1 29.54 8.24
Boron mgkg−1 0.39 0.02
Iron mgkg−1 178.69 415.63
Manganese mgkg−1 198.78 311.27
Copper mgkg−1 0.66 0.72
Zinc mgkg−1 4.04 4.27
Calcium cmol(+)kg−1 2.44 4.33
Magnesium cmol(+)kg−1 0.33 0.75
Available Potassium cmol(+)kg−1 0.67 0.24
Sodium cmol(+)kg−1 0.17 0.07
Calcium Saturation Percentage % 16.7 11.5
Magnesium Saturation Percentage % 2.24 1.99
Exchangeable Sodium % 1.2 0.52
Cation Exchanging Capacity cmol(+)kg−1 14.6 37.72

2015; Nand, Baligar, and Jones 2011). Furthermore, Abreha (2013) associated the low S content with
acidic soil reaction, as it aggravates the adsorption of the sulfate ion (SO42-) with Al and Fe
compounds.
In the Nitisol, the exchange site was occupied in the order of Ca > K > Mg> Na whereas it was Ca >
Mg > K > Na in Luvisols. The soil Ca and Mg saturation percentage were rated under a very low
category according to Ethiopian Soil Information System (2014). This might be due to the leaching of
Ca and Mg that led to the dominance of Al in the exchanging sites. This is consistent with the
observation of Miller 20166), and Neina (2019) who reported that leaching and acidity are the main
influencing factors on soils with very low Ca and Mg saturation percentages. The CEC values qualify
under medium and very high levels in Farawocha site and Kechi sites, respectively (Hazelton and
Murphy 2007).
The concentration of micronutrients were found to be in sequence of Mn > Fe >Zn > Cu >B (N)
and Fe>Mn >Zn > Cu >B (Kechi). High concentration Fe could lead to toxicity for most of the crop
species (Jones 2003). The B content at both research farms soils was rated under very low (<
0.5mgkg−1) according to the EthioSIS(2014).

Phosphorous adsorption characteristics

Phosphorus adsorption isotherms
Phosphorus adsorption in soils of Nitisols and Luvisols were significantly (P < .05) affected by lime
application with increasing rate of lime reducing P adsorption (Figure. 4, 5).
The quantities of P adsorbed in all soil types were in the order of 0% > 50% > 100% > 150% limed
(Figure 4, 5). The maximum P adsorption ranged from 402 to 217 mg kg−1 (Nitisols) and 325 to
192 mg kg−1 (Luvisols)(Table 2). The maximum and minimum values were recorded from untreated
and 150% lime, respectively. According to Buresh, Smithson, and Hellums (1997), P sorption levels of
 COMMUNICATIONS IN SOIL SCIENCE AND PLANT ANALYSIS 9

450 0% Limed 50% Limed 100% Limed 150% Limed

400

Adsorped P (mgKg-1)
350
300
250
200
150
100
50
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Equilibruim Con. P (mgL-1)
Figure 4. Phosphate adsorption isotherm of Nitisols.

0% Limed 50% Limed 100% Limed 150% Limed

350
Adsorped P (mgKg -1)

300
250
200
150
100
50
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Equilibrium Conc. of P (mgL-1)
Figure 5. Phosphate adsorption isotherm of Luvisols.

Table 2. Maximal P adsorbed of Farawocha (Nitisols) and Kechi (Luvisols) sites.

Soil type Lime rate (LR) Maximum Adsorption (mg P kg−1)
Nitisols 0% 402.0a
50% 310.80b
100% 267.97c
150% 217.01d
LSD 0.05 1.12
CV% 0.13
Luvisols 0% 325a
50% 249b
100% 214c
150% 192d
LSD 0.05 10.262
CV% 1.48
Means within a column for a particular soil type followed by the same letter(s) are
not significantly different from each other at (p = 0.05).

0 − 100, 100–400 and > 400 mg P kg−1 are classified as low, moderate and high respectively. Therefore,
Nitisols without lime was found to be a high P sorping soils and changed to moderate P sorpition with
lime, and all the P sorpition values at Luvisols were found under moderate P sorption levels. An earlier
study by Kisinyo et al. (2013) revealed that the application of lime decreases the amount of
10 Y. BEYENE ET AL.

P adsorption maximum under maize growing acid soils of Kenya. Abdenna et al. (2020), reported that
lime treatment probably increased the availability of P through decreased sorption; and Sato (2003)
also indicated decreased P sorption with increased pH. He reported decreased P adsorption by 21% as
pH increased from 4.7 to 5.9 and by 34% as pH increased further to 7.0 through liming

Phosphorus adsorption indices

The linear form Langmuir adsorption isotherms plotted by taking C/X against Ce are shown in
Figure 6, 7 while the linear form of the Freundlich equation plotted by taking log C against log X is
given in Figure 8, 9. The goodness of fit was evaluated by simple linear regression coefficients
calculated for the linear transforms. Regression coefficients (R2) of isotherms in both soil types and
liming rates showed significant differences (Table 3). The R2 of Langmuir was varying from 0.66 to
0.90, while it was between 0.91 and 0.98 for Freundlich. Thus, the Freundlich equation was found in
the best-fitted model in both soil types than the Langmuir equation. This is consistent with the
observation of Khan et al. (2010), Muindi et al. (2015) and, Ayenew et al. (2018) who reported that the
Freundlich equation was the best fit for P-sorption data of different types of soils compared to
Langmuir models. Sparks (2003) reported that the Langmuir equation fits best with soil having
homogenous sorption sites all over their surfaces but for soils with heterogeneous sorption sites, the
Freundlich equation suits better in describing the P sorption data of such soils. Thus, it seems that the
present soils had a heterogeneous P sorption site on their surfaces. For instance, heterogeneous
P sorption sites are characterized by the presence of different types of binding sites with different
binding energies (chemosorption and physisorption)(Vasanth et al. 2019).
The maximum P buffering capacity (MPBC) is a product of Langmuir model Xm and k. This is
a capacity factor that measures the ability of the soil to replenish phosphate ions in low concentrations
in soil solution as they tend to be depleted (Asmare 2014; Ayenew et al. 2018). The MPBC is potentially
useful as a tool to characterize soil types, especially for low concentration range because it describes
both the nature and the capacity of P adsorption. The data revealed that the values of the MPBC
ranged from 510 to 331 L kg−1 (Nitisols) and it was 47.69 to 35.5 L kg−1 (Luvisols)(Table 3). The soils
with the highest MPBC (0% limed Nitisols) have higher adsorption capacity, reflecting low P supply
into soil solution for a longer period as compared to the less buffered soils that can supply ample P to
the soil solution. On the other hand, soils with low buffering capacity will have more P in soil solution
and will enhance P mobility in such soils. In line with the present finding Ayenew et al. (2018) reported
that the highest MBC has higher adsorption capacity, reflecting low P supply into soil solution for
a longer period as compared to less buffered soils.
The Xm values of the studied soils ranged between 1000 and 37 mg kg−1 (Nitisols) and it was 251–
142 mg kg−1 (Luvisols) (Table 3). In Nitisols, the highest value was recorded at 0% limed and the lowest
was at 150% whereas the lowest value (142 mg P kg−1) was recorded at 50% limed (Luvisols). The

0% Limed 50% Limed 100% Limed 150% Limed

0.18
0.16
C/X P (mgkg-1)

0.14
0.12
0.1
0.08
0.06
0.04
0.02
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Equilibrium Conc. of P (mgL-1)
Figure 6. Langmuir adsorption isotherms of Nitisols.
 COMMUNICATIONS IN SOIL SCIENCE AND PLANT ANALYSIS 11

0.35

0.3

0.25

0.2

0.15

0.1

0.05

0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
0% Limed 50% Limed 100% Limed 150 Limed

Figure 7. Langmuir adsorption isotherms of Luvisols.

0% Limed 50% Limed 100% Limed 150% Limed

3
2.5
LogX mgkg-1

2
1.5
1
0.5
0
0 0.5 1 1.5 2
Log Ce mgL-1
Figure 8. Freundlich adsorption isotherms of Nitisols.

3 0% Limed 50% Limed 100% Limed 150% Limed

2.5
LogX mgKg-1

1.5

0.5

0
0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8
LogCe mgL-1
Figure 9. Freundlich adsorption isotherms of Luvisols.

relatively smaller Xm values of the present soils could be due to the application of lime and which have
also a significant increase in soil pH and available P with liming could be attributed to the presence of Ca2
+
ions contained in the lime. The Ca2+ ions displace H+ and Al3+ ions from the soil adsorption sites which
are relatively low P fixing soils than other soil types (Kisinyo 2016; Muindi et al. 2015; The et al. 2006).
The Langmuir binding energy (k) values of 0.51–9.3 L mg−1 with the mean value of 3.23 Lmg−1
(Nitisols) and 0.19–0.25 Lmg−1 with the mean value of 0.22 L mg−1 (Luvisols). The values of k for the
soils were greater than 0.07 L mg−1 suggesting that there is no risk of loss of P into the water (Mcdowell
12 Y. BEYENE ET AL.

Table 3. P-sorption indices of soils at Farawocha (Nitisols) and Kechi (Luvisols) sites derived from Langmuir and Freundlich equations.
Langmuir equation P sorption Indices Freundlich equation P sorption Indices
2
Soil type Lime Xm K MBC EPRl R N Kf EPRf R2 P
mgkg−1 Lmg−1 Lkg−1 mgkg−1 Lkg−1 mgkg−1 mgkg−1 Kgha−1
Nitisols 0% 1000a 0.51c 510.07a 92.23a 0.82b 3.10b 101.2b 59.38a 0.85c 142.5a
50% 667b 0.52c 346.84b 62.12b 0.66d 4.21a 212.3a 55.4b 0.96a 132.96b
100% 125c 2.65b 331.25c 43.3c 0.81c 2.56c 100.63b 52.2c 0.90b 125.28c
150% 37d 9.21a 340.77d 23.98d 0.86a 2.25d 45.30c 21.8d 0.91b 52.32d
LSD 0.05 3.01 0.22 0.068 0.096 0.001 0.26 1.19 0.98 0.001 2.31
CV% 0.23 2.5 0.01 0.09 0.12 3.04 0.37 0.88 0.38 0.09
Luvisols 0% 251a 0.19c 47.69a 39.20a 0.83b 2.45d 120.41d 52.42a 0.96b 104.48a
50% 142c 0.25a 35.5d 15.7b 0.68d 1.56b 78.57b 28.00b 0.97a 56.20b
100% 166b 0.23b 38.18c 11.30c 0.71c 1.01a 112.5a 22.86c 0.95c 45.72c
150% 166b 0.25a 41.5b 7.90d 0.90a 2.035c 16.3c 12.97d 0.94d 25.94d
LSD 0.05 1.97 0.01 0.056 0.04 0.001 0.10 1.15 0.098 0.0001 1.54
CV% 0.34 1.74 0.07 0.11 0.39 1.78 0.78 0.16 0.06 0.05
Xm = Langmuir sorption maximum, k = bonding energy of the Langmuir, MPBC = maximum P buffering capacity EPRl = External
P requirement of Langmuir, EPRf = External P requirement of Freundlich, Kf = Freundlich surface coverage and n = sorption energy
of the Freundlich. Numbers in each column for a particular soil type followed by the same letter are not significantly different
(P > 0.05)

and Sharpley 2002). The value of Freundlich sorption energy (n) was highest (4.21 L kg−1) in 50%
limed and lowest (2.25 L kg−1) at 150% limed soil for the Nitisols whereas Luvisols the value of n was
highest (2.41 L kg−1) 0% limed and lowest (1.05 L kg−1) at 100% limed (Table 3).
The Freundlich adsorption capacity (Kf), which is a measure of the reactive surface area (relative
adsorption capacity) of the soil, is presented in (Table 3). In Nitisols, Kf values ranged from 45.03 mg
kg−1 (150% limed) to 212.3 mg kg−1 (50% limed) whereas in the Luvisols it ranged from 16.3 mg kg−1
(150% limed) to 120.41 mg kg−1 (0% limed). Overall, the lowest Kf values in both soil types were
recorded at 150% limed. According to Sarafaz, Abid, and Mehdi (2009), a larger Kf value implies
a larger adsorbing capacity. For practical purposes, the Kf may be used to differentiate soils having
different P adsorption capacities. Thus, the soils limed at 150% had a lower sorption capacity relative
to the others. The variation observed in P sorption capacities (Kf) among soils in the different sites
might be ascribed to differences in oxides of Al and Fe and clay content in soils (Obura 2008). The
Freundlich parameter Kf was found to be a practically useful parameter in summarizing the adsorp­
tion properties of soil over a wide range of equilibrium concentrations.
The maximum value of Xm, EPR, and kg P ha−1 was recorded in both soils without liming. In both
soil types, Xm, EPR, and kg P ha−1 decreased following the order of 0% < 50% <100% < 150% limed.
Application of lime decreased soil EPR, Xm and kg P ha−1 probably due to the reduction of soil
P sorption thus making both the native and the applied P available for plants uptake. Similar studies in
tropical acid soils indicated that lime application increased soil av. P (Kisinyo et al. 2014; Muindi et al.
2015).
Phosphate fertilizer increased soil P content due to the release of phosphate ions into the soil
solution during its dissolution. Increased soil av. P in acid soils due to phosphorus fertilizer application
has been reported elsewhere (Opala et al. 2014). Langmuir adsorption maximum (Xm) was strongly
and positively correlated with soil properties at the Nitisols i.e., (r = 0.99, ex. Fe3+); (r = 0.84, ex. Al3+)
and Xm was strongly and negatively correlated with soil properties of Ca, Mg and av. P i.e., (r = −0.98,
Ca); (r = −0.98, Mg); (r = −0.90, av. P) while Luvisols (r = 0.99, ex. Fe3+); (r = 0.97, ex. Al3+) and Xm
were strongly and negatively correlated with soil properties of Ca, Mg and av. P i.e., (r = −0.84, Ca);
(r = −0.95, Mg); (r = −0.93, av. P). This is in agreement with the observation by Zhang et al. (2005) and
Asmare (2014), who reported a positive correlation between Xm and Al. Similarly, Zinabu, Wassie,
and Dhyna (2015) found a strong and positive correlation between Al and Xm and the adsorption
 COMMUNICATIONS IN SOIL SCIENCE AND PLANT ANALYSIS 13

parameters were positively and strongly correlated with an ex. Fe3+ and Al3+ indicate the presence of
reactive and strong P adsorption sites on Fe and Al oxides (Chunye et al. 2009; Thomas, Omueti, and
Ikhane 2018).

External phosphorus fertilizer requirements (EPR)

The Freundlich model was considered as the best model for the description of the P adsorption
characteristics of the soils in these particular study areas as it had a higher R2 value compared with the
Langmuir model (Table 3). As a result, EPR was calculated from the Freundlich model (i.e. EPRf).
Without lime application, the value of EPRf ranged from 59.38 to 21.8, and 52.42 to 12.9 mg P kg−1 in
the Nitisols and Luvisols, respectively. Liming had significant effects (P ≤ .05) on EPRf. The relatively
high values of EPRf in the absence of lime in both soils indicate the need for the application of
P fertilizers to maintain optimum crop production compared to soils at 50%, 100%, and 150%. EPR in
soils of Nitisols and Luvisols were significantly (P < .05) affected by the lime application.
The reduced values of EPR with an increasing rate of lime may be due to the continuous reduction
of P adsorption levels and the combined effect of physical and chemical amelioration effects of lime on
soil acidity and increased P concentration on the sorption sites, hence, reducing the number of active
sorptive sites. This is also in agreement with Kisinyo et al. (2013); who concluded that chemical
amelioration of the soil acidity may have occurred through increased soil pH levels, which makes the
surfaces of Al-hydroxy compounds increasingly negative. This increases electrostatic repulsion and
decreases electrostatic potential, hence reducing P sorption and increasing HPO42- in soil solution
(Van Straaten 2007). Lime treatment decreased EPR through its decreasing affinity for P sorption
through increasing soil pH and precipitation of exchangeable Al (Abdenna et al. 2020). Pearson
correlation matrix of Nitisols also indicated that liming had negative and significant (P ≤ .05)
correlation with adsorption parameters of Xm (r = −0.97); Kf (r = −0.51); n (r = −0.62); EPRf
(r = −0.97); EPRl (r = −0.96) and kg P ha−1 (r = −0.77). However, Kechi site liming had negative
and significant(P ≤ .05) correlation with adsorption parameters of Xm (r = −0.62); EPRf (r = −0.85);
EPRl (r = −0.89) and kg P ha−1 (r = −0.75). Therefore, lime application is important for the manage­
ment of soil acidity-related constraints in the P sorption at Nitisols and Luvisols.
The results of the current study on the EPR are consistent with the findings of Duffera and Robarge
(1999) who reported that the amount of added P required maintaining a concentration of 0.2 mg
P kg−1 in solution (EPR) ranged from 50 to 201 mg P kg−1 for surface soil samples from non-cultivated
and non-fertilized areas in Ethiopia. Also, Zinabu, Wassie, and Dhyna (2015) reported that the EPR
values of acidic soils of clay loam and loam textural in southern Ethiopia ranged from 71.8 to 211 mg
kg−1. Kisinyo et al. (2013) also has found that the EPR values decrease with increasing lime (352.84 to
54.85 mg kg−1) phosphorus sorption and lime requirements of maize growing acid soils of Kenya and
Abdenna et al. (2020) also found EPR values decrease with increasing lime (1772 to 369 mg kg−1) P-
Sorption characteristics of lime amended Ultisols and Alfisols in Humid Tropical Western Ethiopia.
Lime treatment decreased EPR through its decreasing affinity for P sorption through increasing soil
pH and precipitation of exchangeable Al (Abdenna et al. 2020).
The consumption of fertilizers in sub-Saharan Africa was estimated to be 8 kg P ha−1 (Morris et al.
2007). Fanuel et al. (2016) also reported that the average Triple superphosphate (TSP) [18–46-0] rate
on fertilized fields of Wolaita, Southern Ethiopia was 59 ± 19 kg ha−1. It was below the blanket
recommendation for cereal crops in Ethiopia i.e. 20 kgPha−1 (Daba et al. 2002). In the present study,
the EPR of 0%, 50%, 100% and 150% was 59.38, 55.4, 52.2 and 23.98 mg kg−1 (Nitisols) respectively
whereas it was 52.42, 28.00, 22.86, and 12.97 mg kg−1 (Luvisols) respectively for 0.2 mg P L−1 of
equilibration, which is equivalent to 142.5, 132.96, 125.28 and 52.32 kg P ha−1 (Nitisols) respectively
whereas Luvisols it was 104.48, 56.20, 45.72 and 25.94 kg P ha−1 respectively. Therefore, it is also
analogous to 865.5, 807.98, 760.98, and 317.80 kg ha−1 NPSB (Nitisols) respectively whereas the
Luvisols it was 634.6, 341.37, 277.71 and 157.56 kg ha−1 NPSB, respectively (Figure 10). Nitisols and
14 Y. BEYENE ET AL.

TSP and NPSB fertilize recommendation at Nitisols and Luvisols

1000 Kechi site recommended TSP Fertilizer
Fertilize at kgha-1
800
Farawocha site recommended TSP
600 fertilier
Farawocha site recommended NPSB
400 fertilizer
Kechi site recommended NPSB
200
fertilizer
0
0% 50% 100% 150% 200%
LR ton/ha
Figure 10. Farawocha (Nitisols) and Kechi Site (Luvisols) recommended fertilizer rates.

Luvisols were demanding the application of P fertilizer at a rate of 238 kg ha−1 TSP (48 kg P ha−1) and
200 kg ha−1 TSP (40 kg P ha−1), respectively, across all soils which is equivalent to 20 mg P kg−1 of soil
(Daba et al. 2002).
Accordingly, these values are greater than the blanket recommendation of 94.5 kg P ha−1 and
64.48 kg P ha−1 in Nitisols and Luvisols, respectively, concerning 0% limed. The application of
P fertilizers based on the blanket recommendation in the study area may result in a substantial yield
deficit, i.e. yield remaining much below the maximum, owing to P deficiency. Therefore, a strong
emphasis should be given on the ways to minimize P fixation and to increase P use efficiency,
especially for soils with relatively high P fixing capacity.
Therefore, the use of soil test P fertilizer recommendation based on the adsorption curves together
with plant response for the applied P for different crop varieties should be done for the soils of the
study area rather than using the usual conventional practice which could underestimate or over­
estimate the amount P fertilizer to be applied. Since the EPRf of the soils calculated from the
Freundlich equation (Table 3) is an estimate of P sorption potential (Wang et al. 2000) and an
adequate EPR for most crops (Abdenna et al. 2020; Asmare 2014; Ayenew et al. 2018; Fekadu,
Wassie, and Gashaw 2017; Zinabu, Wassie, and Dhyna 2015), diverse crop varieties in the study
area could require a different amount of P fertilizer.
Thus, it could be inferred that the external and internal P requirement of a crop, as well as
the variety, has to be investigated to find a reasonable amount of fertilizer to be applied to
a particular soil concerning crops and sites. External P requirement (EPRf) were strongly and
positively correlated with adsorption parameters and soil properties at Farawocha site i.e.,
(r = 0.80, Xm); (r = 0.99, ex. Al3+); (r = 0.99, ex. acidity); (r = 0.85, ex. Fe3+) and EPRf were
strongly and negatively correlated with soil properties of Ca, Mg and av. P i.e., (Ca, r = −0.79);
(Mg, r = −0.81); (av. P, r = −0.57) whereas Kechi site (Xm, r = 0.83,); (ex. Al3+, r = 0.77) and
(ex. acidity, r = 0.78) (ex. Fe3+, r = 0.85) and EPRf were strongly and negatively correlated with
soil properties of Ca, Mg and av. P i.e., (Ca, r = −0.54); (Mg, r = −0.73); (av. P, r = −0.65). The
adsorption parameters were positively and strongly correlated with Fe3+ and Al3+ indicating the
presence of reactive and strong P adsorption sites on Fe and Al oxides (Chunye et al. 2009;
Thomas, Omueti, and Ikhane 2018).

Effects of liming on soil chemical properties

Lime had significant effects (P ≤ .05) on soil pH, ex. acidity, ex. H+ and ex. Al3+ (Table 4). Their values
were found to decrease with increasing rates of lime. Several studies have shown that liming of acidic
soils could increase soil pH, which enhances the release of phosphate ions fixed by Al3+, H+ and Fe3+
 COMMUNICATIONS IN SOIL SCIENCE AND PLANT ANALYSIS 15

Table 4. Effects of LR on soil pH, ex. acidity, ex.Al3+ and ex. H+ at Nitisols and Luvisols.
ex. acidity ex. Al 3+ ex. H +
Soil type LR(%) pH (cmol(+)kg−1) (cmol(+)kg−1) (cmol(+)kg−1)
Nitisols 0 4.55d 4.18a 3.84a 0.33a
50 5.38c 0.73b 0.34b 0.39a
100 6.09b 0.23c 0.01c 0.23b
150 6.60a 0.23c 0.01c 0.22b
LSD 0.05 0.094 0.10 0.15 0.14
CV% 0.57 4.10 4.91 16.61
Luvisols 0 5.33c 1.47a 0.72a 0.75a
50 5.78bc 0.17b 0.04b 0.13b
100 6.27c 0.15b 0.07b 0.08c
150 6.51a 0.17b 0.05b 0.12b
LSD 0.05 0.092 0.04 0.03 0.035
CV% 0.42 3.29 6.95 6.85
Means within a column for a particular soil type followed by the same letter(s) are not significantly different from each other
at (p = 0.05)

ions into the soil solution and likely displacement of Al3+, H+ and Fe3+ ions by Ca2+ ions it contains.
This led to the observed reduction in P sorption at both soil types (Caires et al. 2008; Kisinyo et al.
2013; Buni 2014; Opala 2017). Similar studies have reported increased soil pH, available P, reduction
in Al levels and P sorption in acid soils due to lime application (Kisinyo 2016; Sabine, Dorothea, and
Schmidhalter 2018; Temesgen et al. 2017). Liming acid soils increased soil pH, ex. Ca and decreased Al
and acid saturation. Ex. Al decreased with increased pH and was fully precipitated at low pH (Abdenna
et al. 2020).
Lime had significant effects (P ≤ .05) on soil nutrients of av. K, Ca and Mg. In Nitisols the soil
nutrients like av. P, av. K, Ca and Mg were found to be lowest for 0% limed soil with 3.2 Ppm,
261.8 mg kg−1, 488.2 mg kg−1 and 39.20 mg kg−1 respectively. The highest value was recorded for av.
P = 6.32 Ppm by 150%, av. K = 319.3 mg kg−1 by 50%, Mg = 86.63 mg kg−1 by 150%, and
Ca = 3659.9 mg kg−1 by 150% limed. whereas Luvisols av. P, av. K, Ca and Mg were found to be
lowest for 0% limed soil with 2.74 Ppm, 95.27 mg kg−1, 89.9 mg kg−1 and 866.7 mg kg−1 respectively.
The highest value was recorded for av. P = 8.72 Ppm by 150%, av. K = 319 mg kg−1 by 50%,
Mg = 606 mg kg−1 by 150%, and Ca = 8851.2 mg kg−1 by 150% limed. With increase lime rate the
increase of available P was recorded which could be due to reduction in Al levels and P sorption in
acid soils due to lime application as reported by many researchers (Abdenna et al. 2020; Kisinyo
et al. 2013; The et al. 2006) and application of lime improved av.K, Ca and Mg in soil (Achalu et al.,
2012; Tariq and Mott 2006). Table 5 shows the effect of liming on soil OC and TN of Nitisols and
Luvisols. Lime had significant effects (P ≤ .05) on soil OC. The soil nutrients of Nitisols OC and TN
were lowest (2.38% and 0.17%), respectively, for 0% limed and the highest value (OC = 2.14% by
150%, TN = 0.17% by all lime rate).
Whereas Luvisols site the soil nutrients of OC and TN lowest value (4.08% and 0.47%), respectively,
were recorded by 150% limed and the highest value (OC = 4.48% at 100% and TN = 0.47% 100 and
150% limed). Lime did not influence TN at the Nitisols. Similar findings were recorded by Jefar and
Gebresilassie (2017), who found that the application of lime for acid soil amelioration and better
soybean performance in southwestern Ethiopia.
The increase in extractable S content in soil due to liming may be attributed to increased
soil pH. An increase in Zn content may be related to the replacement of Zn by Mg from
specific sites on soil exchange complex which in turn increased the extractable Zn in soil
(Barman, Lalit, and Raj Kumar 2014; Srivastava and Gupta 1996). Liming also increases the
solubility of B in the soils of the Nitisols and Luvisols. Barman, Lalit, and Raj Kumar (2014),
also found liming, increased the B retention capacity of soil due to the formation of insoluble
metaborate.
16 Y. BEYENE ET AL.

Table 5. Shows the effects of LR on the exchangeable bases (av. P, av.K, Ca and Mg),OC and TN at Nitisols and Luvisols.
av. K Ca Na Mg OC av. P TN
Soil type LR (%) mgkg−1 mgkg−1 mgkg−1 mgkg−1 % mgkg−1 %
Nitisols 0 261.81c 488.2d 38.78 39.20a 2.44a 3.2d 0.17a
50 319.30a 1588.6c 39.82 56.87b 2.41b 4.53c 0.17a
100 309.00b 2752.6b 40.50 73.93c 2.39c 5.36b 0.17a
150 316.2a 3659.9a 35.65 86.63 d 2.31d 6.32a 0.17a
LSD 0.05 3.73 7.34 3.91 4.31 0.14 0.18 0.05
CV% 0.44 0.12 3.58 2.38 2.16 1.96 1.56
Luvisols 0 95.27d 866.7d 15.2b 89.9d 4.48ab 2.74c 0.44b
50 319.00a 5961.1c 37.4b 557.6c 4.29b 8.00b 0.48a
100 277.95c 7267.3b 38.71a 581.4b 4.08c 7.41b 0.47a
150 310.65b 8851.2a 37.23b 606.4a 4.40ab 8.72a 0.47 a
LSD 0.05 7.49 7.15 1.29 2.60 0.33 0.82 0.05
CV% 1.06 0.04 1.42 0.20 2.74 6.79 1.56
Means within a column for a particular soil type followed by the same letter(s) are not significantly different from each other at
(p = 0.05).

Lime had significant effects (P ≤ .05) on soil micronutrients of Fe3+ and Mn (Table 6). In the Nitisols,
the lowest values of Fe and Mn (130 mg kg−1 and 150 mg kg−1), respectively, occurred in the 150% limed
whilst the highest values (178 mg kg−1 and 198.40 mg kg−1) occurred in the unlimed (0%) soil. Similarly,
in Luvisols the lowest values of Fe3+ and Mn (173.24 mg kg−1 and 104.04 mg kg−1), respectively, occurred
in the 50% limed and the highest values (415.63 mg kg−1 and 311.2 mg kg−1), respectively, occurred in the
unlimed soil. Liming reduces the levels of Fe and Mn in acid soils. This is possible as a result of
precipitation of Fe and Mn as carbonates, oxides or hydroxides resulting from an increase in pH
(Adane 2014; The et al. 2006).
Lime had significant effects (P ≤ .05) on soil CEC (Table 6). The lowest CEC values in Nitisols and
Luvisols were recorded by 0% limed whereas liming at 150% in both soil types resulted in the highest
CEC value, which could be attributed to the change in pH (Adane 2014).

Grain yield of wheat

Grain yield was significantly (P < .05) influenced by the interaction effects of lime and P rates. The
highest grain yield (4345.2 kg ha−1) was recorded from 1300 kg lime ha−1 with 32.9 kg P ha−1
whereas the lowest grain yield (791.3 kg ha−1) was recorded from the non-treated plot (Table 7). This
result revealed that yield obtained from the maximum amount of P and lime was 449% higher yield
than the control. Busari et al. (2005) and White, Bell, and Marzies (2006) indicated that lime
improves soil physical condition, increased soil pH, availability of nutrients, and availability of P;
and reduced Al, Fe, and other micronutrients toxicity. Under improved soil conditions, a higher

Table 6. Effects of Liming Rates (LR) on soil micronutrients, Sulfur (S), and cation exchange capacity (CEC) at Nitisols and Luvisols.
B Cu Zn S CEC Mn Fe
Soil type LR(%) mgkg−1 mgkg−1 mgkg−1 mgkg−1 cmol(+)kg−1 (mgkg−1) (mgkg−1)
Nitisols 0 0.39c 0.66c 4.04a 29.54d 14.58b 198.40a 178.69a
50 0.47b 0.79b 4.30c 34.1c 16.09ab 167.17b 156.61b
100 0.51a 0.88a 4.60b 39.06b 14.73b 159.60c 129.82c
150 0.51a 0.90a 4.57b 44.04a 17.99a 150.1d 130.60c
LSD 0.05 0.014 0.03 0.14 1.63 2.68 4.71 4.24
CV% 1.06 1.47 1.08 1.57 5.99 0.99 1.01
Luvisols 0 0.02b 0.72d 4.27c 8.24c 37.73b 311.27a 415.63d
50 1.34a 4.36c 60.81a 54.46b 40.15ab 294.38b 403.19b
100 1.28ab 4.55b 56.17b 70.23a 40.50ab 285.21c 378.21a
150 1.22b 5.01a 57.9ab 72.12a 42.73a 104.04d 173.21c
LSD 0.05 0.19 0.45 3.24 1.37 4.0 1.94 1.94
CV% 7.16 4.41 2.56 0.95 3.49 0.23 0.28
Means within a column for a particular soil type followed by the same letter(s) are not significantly different from each other at
(p = 0.05).
 COMMUNICATIONS IN SOIL SCIENCE AND PLANT ANALYSIS 17

Table 7. Grain yield (kg/ha) of wheat as affected by the interaction effect of lime and NPSB fertilizer rate in the luvisols.
NPSB
P (Kg/ha) (kg/ha) Lime rate
0 50%(650 kg) 100% (1300 kg) Mean
0 0 791.3k 1611.6ij 1532 j 1311.6
8.2 50 1857.4hij 2222 h 2934ef 2337.8
16.4 100 2256gh 2769.5fg 3444.1bcde 2823.2
24.6 150 2133.1hi 3149.7def 3935.9ab 3072.9
32.9 200 2948ef 3601.1bcd 4345.2a 3532.6
41.1 250 3286.9cdef 3913.6ab 3735.3bc 3644.96
Mean 1856.6 2877.92 3321.08 -
LSD (5%) 534.16
CV(%) 11.48
LSD = Least Significant Difference at 5% level; CV (%) = Coefficient of Variation; Means in columns followed by the same
letter(s) are not significantly different at 5% level of significance

P rate is efficiently utilized by crops and subsequently resulted in better crop growth and yield. The
result further suggests that liming, or increasing the rate of P alone cannot serve to achieve the
maximum potential of acid soil.

Conclusion
In acidic Nitisols and Luvisols where P was deficient, the Freundlich was found the best-fitted model in
describing the soil P-sorption isotherms. Meanwhile, liming significantly reduced the exchangeable
acidity, Fe3+, and P required from external sources. Divergently liming was also found to be positively
and significantly correlated with soil pH, available P, Ca2+, Mg2+, K, S, and micronutrients (B, Cu, and
Zn). Both soils in the absence of lime would demand external P (kg/ha) between 104.48 kg/ha (Luvisols)
and 142.5 kg/ha (Nitisols) but the amount of P at the increasing rate of lime was reduced by 63.3% in the
Nitisols, and by 79.3% in Luvisols. Furthermore, field validation of external P requirement on the
Luvisols indicated the substantial yield increments using 32.9 kg P ha−1 X 1300 kg lime ha−1, yet
P under real test exceeds the model estimation by 26.8%. Based on the model and field test, it was
concluded that blanket P fertilizer recommendation leads to under-application. Generally, owing to the
strongly acidic soil reaction of both soil types, the result signifies a huge variation in P sorption capacity.
Therefore, to ensure optimum P supply of acid soils, examining soils’ P sorption capacity, and exploring
possible reclamation measures along with validation of EPR using different crops is suggested.

Acknowledgments
We are very grateful Wolaita Sodo University for funding this research.

Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Funding
This work was funded by the Wolaita Sodo University.

ORCID
Fanuel Laekemariam http://orcid.org/0000-0001-6913-5171
Alemayehu Kiflu http://orcid.org/0000-0002-9227-3289
Lakew Getaneh http://orcid.org/0000-0002-5318-2974
18 Y. BEYENE ET AL.

Data availability
Data presented in this manuscript can be made available as per the policy of the journal.

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