In terms of soil management, what role do specific fertilizers play?

Specific fertilizers play a crucial role in modifying soil reaction, which primarily refers to the pH level of the soil. The pH of soil significantly impacts nutrient availability, microbial activity, and overall plant growth. By using fertilizers that contain lime, for example, you can increase the pH level of acidic soils, making nutrients more accessible to plants. Conversely, certain fertilizers, such as sulfur, can help lower the pH in alkaline soils to provide a more favorable environment for certain crops.

While other factors mentioned, like soil temperature or texture, can be influenced by various practices in soil management, they are not directly impacted by the application of fertilizers in the way that soil pH is adjusted. Similarly, while fertilizers can influence soil structure indirectly, their primary role is not in improving texture or reducing compaction, but rather in altering the chemical composition of the soil to enhance nutrient availability.