
Calcium Hydroxide for Agriculture – Uses, Benefits & Soil Treatment Applications
Calcium Hydroxide, commonly known as Hydrated Lime or Slaked Lime, is an important compound widely used in agriculture to improve soil quality and crop productivity. Its chemical formula is Ca(OH)₂, and it is produced by reacting quicklime (CaO) with water.
In modern agriculture, calcium hydroxide is commonly used for soil treatment, pH regulation, pest control, and nutrient availability improvement. Its alkaline nature helps neutralize acidic soils and creates better conditions for plant growth.
Because of its effectiveness and affordability, calcium hydroxide has become an essential material used by farmers, fertilizer manufacturers, and agricultural industries.
Chemical Information
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Calcium Hydroxide |
| Other Names | Hydrated Lime, Slaked Lime |
| Chemical Formula | Ca(OH)₂ |
| CAS Number | 1305-62-0 |
| Molecular Weight | 74.09 g/mol |
| Appearance | Fine white powder |
| Density | 2.24 g/cm³ |
| Solubility | Slightly soluble in water |
Product Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Purity | >95% |
| Moisture Content | <1% |
| Particle Size | 150–250 mesh |
| pH (1% Solution) | 12–13 |
| Shelf Life | 12 Months |
| Packaging | 25 kg / 50 kg HDPE bags |
Why Calcium Hydroxide is Used in Agriculture
Many agricultural soils become acidic over time due to rainfall, fertilizers, and natural soil processes. Acidic soil reduces plant growth and limits nutrient availability.
Calcium hydroxide helps solve this problem by raising soil pH and improving soil structure, making nutrients more available to plants.
Key Benefits
✔ Neutralizes acidic soil
✔ Improves soil fertility
✔ Enhances nutrient absorption
✔ Supports healthy plant growth
✔ Improves crop yield
Major Agricultural Applications
Soil pH Correction
Calcium hydroxide is widely used to increase soil pH levels, helping plants grow in balanced soil conditions.
Soil Fertility Improvement
It improves soil structure and allows plants to absorb nutrients more effectively.
Pest and Disease Control
Hydrated lime can help reduce certain soil-borne pests and plant diseases.
Organic Farming and Composting
Farmers often use calcium hydroxide during composting to maintain proper pH levels and improve decomposition.
Agricultural Land Treatment
Before planting crops, lime treatment is sometimes applied to agricultural land to improve soil conditions.
Benefits for Crop Production
Using calcium hydroxide in agriculture provides many advantages:
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Improved root development
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Increased nutrient availability
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Better soil structure
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Higher agricultural productivity
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Healthier crops
These benefits help farmers achieve better crop quality and higher yields.

Other Industrial Applications
Apart from agriculture, calcium hydroxide is also used in many industries.
Industrial Uses
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Water treatment
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Construction industry
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Metallurgy
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Chemical manufacturing
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Environmental treatment
Packaging and Storage
Packaging Options
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25 kg HDPE bags
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50 kg HDPE bags
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Jumbo bags available
Storage Conditions
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Store in a cool and dry place
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Keep containers tightly sealed
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Protect from moisture
Proper storage helps maintain product quality and stability.
Safety and Handling
Calcium hydroxide is a strong alkaline substance and should be handled carefully.
Safety Precautions
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Wear protective gloves and goggles
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Avoid direct contact with skin and eyes
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Store away from moisture
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Use proper safety equipment during handling
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is calcium hydroxide used for in agriculture?
It is mainly used for soil treatment, pH correction, and improving soil fertility.
Is hydrated lime the same as calcium hydroxide?
Yes, hydrated lime and slaked lime are different names for calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂).
Can calcium hydroxide increase crop yield?
Yes, it improves soil conditions and nutrient availability, which helps increase crop productivity.
How should calcium hydroxide be stored?
It should be stored in sealed containers in a cool and dry environment.
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