Nutrient leaching in dominant lithuanian soils

Abstract

Infiltration intensity, seasonal variation of leaching of relevant cations (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, and K⁺) and anions (NO³⁻) and nutrient budgets for the most common eight types of Lithuanian soils (2 Albeluvisols, 2 Luvisols, 3 Cambisols and Arenosol) are discussed. The lysimetric tests covered a period of three years. Infiltration intensity on various soils tested ranged from 199.7 mm (on Cambisols) to 316.3 mm (on Arenosol). Peak values were recorded during the spring period between soil defrosting and physical maturity. Seasonal regularities of nutrient leaching have different tendencies on various soils. Soil nutrient balances (at average annual level of mineral fertilizing N50P70K70) indicated accumulation of P and K, and depletion of N, Ca and Mg in all soil groups tested. Annual depletion of N resources reached a maximum value of −112.1 kg ha⁻¹ in loam on loam Cambisol, −163.9 kg ha⁻¹ for Ca in the same soil and −63.6 kg ha⁻¹ of Mg in silty clay loam on heavy clay Luvisol.

Keywords:

• Leaching
• lysimeters
• Albeluvisols
• Luvisols
• Cambisols
• Arenosol