info:eu-repo/semantics/article application/pdf 1012454 bytes Ratarstvo i povrtarstvo volume: 63(2) startpage: 79 endpage: 92 https://unilib.phaidrabg.rs/o:9752 doi:10.5937/ratpov63-63192 Application of Saturation Sludge Improves Chemical Properties of Pseudogley Soil and Crop Yield Summary: Acidic pseudogley soils represent a significant limitation for agricultural production in Serbia due to unfavorable chemical conditions, primarily low pH and increased hydrolytic acidity, which reduce nutrient availability and crop productivity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of saturation sludge, a by-product of sugar beet processing, on selected chemical properties of pseudogley soil and the yield of spring barley, soybean, and pepper. The experiment was conducted as a controlled pot experiment with four treatments: control (without sludge) and sludge application rates equivalent to 5, 15, and 25 t ha⁻¹. After one vegetation period, soil pH, hydrolytic acidity, and the availability of potassium and phosphorus were determined, together with yield parameters of the tested crops. Application of saturation sludge significantly increased soil pH and reduced hydrolytic acidity, particularly at rates of 15 and 25 t ha⁻¹. These changes were accompanied by improved availability of potassium and phosphorus and increased yield, with the most pronounced response observed in spring barley. The results indicate that saturation sludge can be recommended as an effective ameliorative material for acidic pseudogley soils; however, soil chemical analysis prior to application and further field-scale research are necessary to confirm long-term effects. eng 2026 All rights reserved saturation sludge, pseudogley, soil, agriculture Prekop, Nenad Ćirić, Vladimir Šeremešić, Srđan Vojnov, Bojan Lazović, Vojislav Ugrenović, Vladan Sikirić, Biljana