Factors affecting growth and response of white clover in pots to applied phosphorus

Abstract

The effect of three levels of soil moisture on growth and response of white clover in pots to applied phosphorus was studied with soils of low and high phosphorus status.

On both soils highest yields were obtained at the highest level of moisture, maintained by daily watering until leaching occurred. Maintenance of the pots at a soil moisture level of estimated ‘field capacity’ resulted in lower yields at all rates of applied phosphorus. The differences between yields due to watering treatments were greatest at the nil and low rates of applied phosphorus on the soil of high phosphorus status, and at the high rates of applied phosphorus on the soil of low phosphorus status.

The leaching method of watering resulted in responses to phosphorus in the pots similar to those expected in the field on both soils. It also produced the highest phosphorus content in the plants on both soils and prevented the accumulation of soluble salts on the surface of the pots, although not completely on one of the soils.