The short-term effects of surface-applied dolomitic lime and gypsum on soil chemical properties and yields of sugarcane ratoon crops in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

This study investigated the effects of surface-application lime and gypsum on soil properties yields ratoon sugarcane crops. Treatments involved once-off surface application dolomitic (L), (G) plus (LG) in factorial combination, with four replications. Soil chemical were measured samples collected at intervals 20 between depths 0 80 cm first fifth years after treatment application. Yield parameters annually. In year, mainly restricted to a depth 0–20 cm. The LG increased pH(CaCl2) from 3.9 4.5, calcium 123 350 mg L−1. Little effect was observed yield year. L generally showed similar impacts properties. led markedly somewhat decreased magnesium levels topsoil. sucrose cane significantly higher than other treatments, which all had results. It was, therefore, concluded that may be viable option for correction acidity through crops grown sandy soils KwaZulu-Natal.