What is a potential consequence of low CEC in soil?

Low Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) in soil indicates a reduced ability of the soil to hold and exchange essential nutrients, particularly positively charged ions like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. This means that when nutrients are applied through fertilizers, a soil with low CEC is less capable of retaining these nutrients, leading to their rapid leaching away with water movement. As a result, plants may have decreased access to necessary nutrients, which can impair growth and lead to deficiencies. This directly impacts agricultural productivity and soil health, making it vital for farmers and gardeners to be aware of CEC when planning their soil management practices.

While low CEC could impact other factors such as aeration or acidity, the immediate and most critical consequence is indeed the reduced availability of nutrients, which is essential for healthy plant development.