Influence of Lime and Sulfur Soil Additions on Growth, Yield, and Leaf Nutrient Content of Rabbiteye Blueberry

Abstract

Abstract Varying levels of lime and/or elemental S were added to a Ruston fine sandy loam soil to determine the influence of soil pH on growth, fruit yields, and leaf nutrient (N) content of rabbiteye blueberry (Vaccinium ashei Reade). Soil pH changes were monitored monthly from Oct. 1978 to Sept. 1980, and bimonthly from Oct. 1980 to Sept. 1982. Plant growth measurements were determined yearly. Plant growth and yields were reduced greatly in soils with pH < 3.5. Increasing levels of lime did not reduce fruit yields or plant growth as much as increasing S levels. Highest yields and best growth occurred in plants grown within a soil pH range of 3.9 to 6.1. Leaf N content increased as soil pH increased up to a level of 4.5 to 5.0 and then decreased with increased soil pH levels. Soil pH seems to have a greater influence on Ca uptake than does Ca addition to the soil. Excessive uptake of Na at high pH levels and Mn at low pH levels may be limiting factors in plant growth.