Effect of an acidified iron‐sulfur‐rich mining residue (iron‐sul) on soil and plant nutrient relationships in drip‐irrigated raspberry and strawberry

Abstract

An acidified iron‐sulfur‐rich mining residue (iron‐sul) was applied in point source concentrations at drip‐irrigation emitter sites in raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) and strawberry (Fragaria X annassa Duch.) plantings grown on a calcareous Timpanogos silty clay loam, Spanish Fork, Utah. Treatment levels ranged from 0 to 1440 kg/ha. Soil test levels of Fe, Mn, and Cu were significantly increased by treatment, while the P soil test level decreased. This increased soil availability was not reflected in increased plant nutrient concentrations nor in correction of chlorotic conditions. Soil structure during the two seasons (1981 and 1982) appeared to be negatively influenced at application sites. This method of application does not successfully reduce lime‐induced chlorosis in small fruits grown in fine‐textured soils with drip irrigation.

Key words:

• Iron Deficiency
• Chlorosis
• Iron‐sul
• Raspberry
• Strawberry
• Drip Irrigation