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Changes in the mineral composition of alfalfa which resulted from the application of 4 lime treatments to 7 acid soils in a growth chamber experiment were studied. Manganese and aluminum concentrations in tops and roots decreased. The relationships between plant content of these elements and various measures of soil aluminum and manganese were investigated. Levels in both tops and roots were best correlated with amounts of the corresponding elements extracted from the soils by N KCl. Zinc levels in tops and roots and magnesium content of tops declined due to liming whereas calcium and molybdenum levels in both plant parts increased. The changes in plant mineral composition helped to elucidate the factors responsible for the increased alfalfa yields obtained when acid soils are limed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A growth-chamber experiment was conducted to study the effect of liming upon growth of alfalfa. The beneficial effects observed were related to changes in soil properties brought about by lime application. Reductions of aluminum and manganese toxicities were the major factors responsible for the increased yields and the decreased growth period required to reach harvest stage. Significant correlations between plant growth parameters and various measures of extractable aluminum were found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]