What does Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) measure?

Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) is a critical soil property that measures the soil's ability to hold and exchange positively charged ions, known as cations. Cations are nutrients such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium that are essential for plant growth. The capacity of the soil to retain these nutrients directly influences the availability of these essential minerals to plants.

A higher CEC value indicates that the soil can hold more cations, making it a more fertile environment for crops. This is particularly important because cations can be replaced in the soil solution, allowing plants to access them as needed. Therefore, CEC plays a vital role in nutrient management and soil fertility.

Understanding CEC is crucial for effective crop production as it helps in determining the nutrient status of the soil and in making informed decisions about fertilization practices. By knowing the CEC, farmers can optimize nutrient application to meet the needs of crops while minimizing environmental impact.