In recent years, cement kiln dust has gained popularity as a powerful way to revitalize your soil. More and more farmers throughout the Prairies are turning to this amendment as a means of improving low-yield spots, increasing crop quality, and ultimately promoting healthier soil. But is CDK truly safe and effective for your soil?
Read along with us at Norstar Agriculture as we explore all about cement kiln dust and whether it’s a practical choice for you. Dive in with us as we cultivate some knowledge together!
What is Cement Kiln Dust?
Cement kiln dust (CKD) is a byproduct of the cement-making process. When raw materials, including limestone, are heated to extremely high temperatures, CKD is produced as well. CKD is often grey or tan in colour and powdery in composition. In agriculture, it’s used as a substitute for traditional limestone to balance overly acidic soils.
How CKD Affects Soil pH and Nutrient Balance
Cement kiln dust is one of the most efficient solutions for acidic soil, being created as a result of an extreme heat transformation of over 1,400°C. This high-heat cycle leaves only free lime, which is more efficient than the calcium carbonate found in limestone. CKD is primarily composed of calcium oxide (CaO), a highly reactive oxide. When calcium oxide reacts with water, it rapidly forms calcium hydroxide ions. These ions work quickly to neutralize acidic ions in the soil while also reducing any aluminum toxicity. Additionally, CKD rapidly replenishes crucial calcium levels in the soil. Prairie soils are often deficient in calcium, an essential macronutrient that’s been neglected by traditional NPK-focused farming practices.
Norstar Agriculture’s NOR-Cal soil input contains several essential nutrients, including 30% calcium and 25% silicon. It also contains magnesium, sulphur, potassium, phosphorus, and other trace elements. These nutrients support essential microbial functions, creating healthier, more robust crops from the soil up.
What Does CKD Actually Do?
Once it’s been assessed that your soil would benefit from liming, CKD provides significant benefits throughout the soil and crops. Cement kiln dust enhances microbial activity and allows for better soil aggregation and aeration.
Over time, soil compaction becomes a common issue in farmland. Soil erosion, machinery, and loss of organic nutrients eventually lead to calcium ions being leached from the soil. As a result, the soil becomes unbalanced and hardened. CKD’s ultra-fine particles work to break up compacted or hardened soil particles.
Which Crops Respond Well to CKD-Amended Soils?
Cement kiln dust is a comprehensive soil amendment that helps to restore and revitalize soil. It’s not used to target specific kinds of crops but instead to revitalize highly acidic soil. CKD will generally support all types of crops grown in the treated soil. That being said, studies have shown particularly strong yield improvements in crops like wheat and sorghum.
How Much CKD Should You Apply Per Acre?
The standard rate of application for cement kiln dust in a field is generally 1 to 2 metric tons per acre. It’s essential to have your field’s soil tested before any treatment steps are taken. In some cases, this application rate may be amended in extremely acidic soils.
How Long Does CKD Last in Soil?
Cement kiln dust is a long-lasting soil amendment, which generally sees the most noticeable changes by the second year. Its effects typically last around five years, unlike traditional agricultural limestone, which may need to be applied more frequently.
Revitalize Your Soil, The Norstar Way
At Norstar Agriculture, we’re passionate about bringing real, tangible results to your fields with science-backed solutions. Our local soil agronomists travel throughout Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, helping farmers treat their fields. We believe in long-term, sustainable results and are here to get you there with personalized, step-by-step guidance. Contact ustoday to book your appointment and learn more about our solutions!
