Extensive use of which soil amendment is most likely to induce a potassium deficiency?

The use of aglime, primarily composed of calcium carbonate, can lead to a potassium deficiency in soils when used excessively. Aglime is primarily applied to raise the pH of acidic soils and improve soil structure, but it can also have an impact on the soil’s cation exchange capacity. When calcium from aglime is added to the soil, it may displace potassium ions, which can lead to lower potassium levels available for plant uptake.

In contrast, the other amendments listed, such as gypsum, compost, and manure, tend to contain additional nutrients and organic matter that can help increase potassium availability in the soil rather than induce a deficiency. Gypsum, for example, primarily adds calcium and sulfur, while compost and manure offer a range of nutrients, including potassium. Thus, while these amendments generally enhance soil fertility, excessive aglime can inadvertently lead to a deficit in potassium availability for crops.