Redox potential (Eh) and pH as drivers of soil/plant/microorganism systems: a transdisciplinary overview pointing to integrative opportunities for agronomy

Background Oxidation-reduction and acid-base reactions are essential for the maintenance of all living organisms. However, redox potential (Eh) has received little attention in agronomy, unlike pH, which is regarded as a master variable. Agronomists are probably depriving themselves of a key factor in crop and soil science which could be a useful integrative tool. Scope This paper reviews the existing literature on Eh in various disciplines connected to agronomy, whether associated or not with pH, and then integrates this knowledge within a composite framework. Conclusions This transdisciplinary review offers evidence that Eh and pH are respectively and jointly major drivers of soil/plant/microorganism…

• CD
  Centre de Coopération Internationale en Recherche Agronomique pour le Développement