bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Interaction of Kind of Soil Colloid, Fertility Status, and Seasonal Weather Variation on the Cation Content of Turnip Leaves
Authors: Army T. J. , Miller E. V.
Published: July 2010

In a study of the effect of environmental factors on cation content of turnip greens, seasonal weather variations from spring to fall were shown to be of similar importance to soil and fertilizer factors.

Divalent cation content of leaves was greater in spring than in fall. Monovalent cation content was significantly higher in the fall than in the spring.

The magnitude of the seasonal effects on cation concentration was modified by the type of clay mineral predominating in the soil and by the percentage soil saturation with Ca and Mg.

The critical level of divalent cation saturation was higher on montmorillonitic than kaolinitic soil. Evidence was obtained for a sharp increase in divalent ion availability between 66% and 76% divalent base saturation on the montmorillonitic soil. A higher lime level would be required in fall than in spring especially on montmorillonitic soils.
Copper Requirements and Deficiency Symptoms of a Number of Field and Vegetable Crops
Authors: Nelson L. G. , Berger K. C. , Andries H. J.
Published: July 2010

A number of field and vegetable crops were grown in the field and greenhouse on a peat soil very deficient in copper. Yield responses and copper contents of the plants were determined and copper deficiency symptoms photographed and described.

In another series of tests the need for copper by oats on a number of upland soils was determined, and data concerning yield and copper content of the oats are presented. Significant increases in yields of straw were obtained in several cases.

In the tests on the peat soil, oats showed the greatest need for copper among field crops and red beets among vegetable crops. Oat yields without copper were slightly over 1 bushel per acre, and with copper 64 bushels. Red beet yields were increased 5‐fold by the application of copper to this soil. Copper contents of plants varied considerably and in general increased with copper fertilization.
Sampling Soils for Physical and Chemical Properties
Authors: Jacob Walter C. , Klute Arnold
Published: July 2010

A sampling study was made on soil characteristics from an organic matter experiment on Sassafras sandy loam soil on Long Island. The paper gives the components of variance for plots, samples, and determinations for several chemical and physical properties. The use of these components in determining a sampling program is illustrated for one physical property.
Effect of Lime Application on Nutrient Uptake by Alfalfa
Authors: Thorp F. C. , Hobbs J. A.
Published: July 2010

A greenhouse study was conducted at Kansas State College on some acid soils from the south‐central part of Kansas to determine the effect of lime application on the composition of alfalfa plants. Samples of surface soil, which ranged in reaction from pH 5.0 to 5.8, were limed to pH 6.3, 6.6, and 6.9. Yields of alfalfa were obtained, and the plant material analyzed for calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium.

Lime applications significantly increased the calcium percentage in the plants. Total uptake of calcium by alfalfa was increased also by lime applications. No significant differences in percentage of magnesium or total magnesium uptake resulted from liming. Applications of lime had no apparent effect on the phosphorus percentage of the plant, but the uptake of phosphorus was greater from the limied than from the unlimed soils. Potash uptake was also increased by lime applications.
Peat Deposits of the State of Washington
Authors: Rigg George B. , Gessel Stanley P.
Published: July 2010

This paper emphasizes (1) the structure of the entire peat deposit down to clay, sand, or gravel, (2) the plants whose remains have formed the various kinds of peat, (3) the origin of the depressions in which the deposits have developed, and (4) the physical and chemical properties of the peat.

The 325 deposits which were investigated comprise over 50,000 acres and vary in depth from 3 to 63 feet. The kinds of peat in the order in which they commonly occur from top to bottom and the plants from whose remains they were formed are (1) moss peat from various species of Sphagnum, (2) fibrous peat mostly from sedges, (3) woody peat from logs, twigs and leaves, and (4) sedimentary peat frommicroscopic plants. Moss peat is absent in many deposits. The asociated mineral materials are mostly marl, diatomite (diatomaceous earth), and volcanic ash.

The depressions in which the deposits have developed were formed mainly by the activities of ice, water, or wind. A summary of the ranges and averages of pH, field moisture, ash, chemical composition and replaceable bases is tabulated. The types of soil on the deposits are Greenwood, Mukilteo, Spalding, Rifle, Tanwax, and Salt Marsh.

Data on chemical composition of the peat, including replaceable bases are given.
Physical and Chemical Properties of Some Iowa Soil Profiles with Clay‐Iron Bands
Authors: Folks Homer C. , Riecken F. F.
Published: July 2010

Field and laboratory studies were made on some sandy soils of Iowa to determine the extent and nature of the clay‐iron bands which occur in some of these soils.

Observations made in the field studies indicate that the iron and silicate clay enriched bands have a depth relation to the soil surface under virgin conditions. Also the bands occur often enough in loamy fine sand soils to indicate that the banding phenomenon is the usual rather than the exception in their genesis. Data obtained by fractionation of the < 2µ clay indicate differential movement of the clay fractions in 2 loamy fine sand profiles with iron and silicate clay enriched bands. In a sandy loam profile, no banding of iron and clay or movement of clay size particles was evident.

Data from the chemical analyses indicate a very small quantity of bases held in the exchangeable form. Exchangeable base content of the iron band layers was of the order of twice as high as in the interband layers. Exchangeable Ca:Mg ratios were lower in the bands than in the interband layers. Exchangeable Ca:Mg ratios were higher in the profiles studied than those reported for other Gray‐Brown Podzolic and Brunizem soils which have developed from finer textured material. Total nitrogen was higher in the iron‐enriched bands than in the interband layers.

In a laboratory experiment, iron bands were produced in a 1‐inch diameter, 4‐foot tube filled with iron containing fine sand by leaching with 0.01 N oxalic acid solution. Though visually evident, the bands were not sufficiently thick to sample for laboratory analysis. The development of bands in the laboratory is considered as additional proof that the bands of iron and clay enrichment observed in the field are the product of profile genesis. Upon drying, the sandy material in the upper part of the leaching tubes was quite strongly cemented.
Fertilizing the Subsoil for Better Water Utilization
Authors: Kohnke Helmut , Bertrand A. R.
Published: July 2010

Subsoil fertilization experiments were conducted on several Indiana soils. The fertilizer was applied in vertical bands from 7 to 20 inches deep. The distance between the bands varied between 28 and 48 inches.

The growth of corn roots greatly increased as a result of subsoil fertilization; subsoiling without fertilizing the subsoil increases root growth only slightly. Subsoil that was chiseled and fertilized maintained a higher porosity for over 2 years. The reason for the difference is probably the presence of additional organic matter (roots and microbes) in the fertilized subsoil.

The subsoiled areas generally contained more moisture than the untreated plots, pointing to less runoff and erosion and to a greater water supply for the crops.

Yield increases from subsoil fertilization have been substantial in many cases, but not consistent. It is assumed that benefits from this practice will increase as it is repeated on the same area.
Dynamics of Cation Exchange in Soil Columns
Authors: Bower C. A. , Gardner W. R. , Goertzen J. O.
Published: July 2010

Equations for describing the process of ion exchange during passage of a salt solution through an exchanger column have been given by H. C. Thomas. N. K. Hiester, T. Vermeulen, and A. Opler have extended these equations and have provided graphic and numerical solutions.

In the present study, the equations have been applied to the problem of determining the distributions of dissolved and adsorbed cations in soil columns as functions of depth and volume of solution applied. Two cases were studied: (1) saturation of soil initially free of the saturating cation by a solution containing only this cation, and (2) equilibration of soil having two cationic species initially present uniformly with a mixed solution of the two cations. For exchange between ion pairs of both equal (Mg and Ca) and unequal (Na and Ca) valence, the experimental results agreed quite satisfactorily with those predicted by the equations.
The Soil‐Vegetation Survey in California
Authors: Gardner Robert A. , Wieslander A. E.
Published: July 2010

This paper deals briefly with procedures and kinds of information currently being obtained in the soil‐vegetation survey of wild land in California and some of the problems encountered. The principal objective of the survey is to obtain accurate basic information on the kind and distribution of soils and natural vegetation, their relationships, and their characteristics and uses as an aid in better management of wild lands. The classification and mapping of both soils and vegetation follows a closely integrated procedure in which the skillful stereoscopic interpretation of aerial photographs plays an important part.
Photo Interpretation of Vegetation and Soils in Wild Land Areas of California
Authors: Nelson R. E. , Bradshaw K. E. , Wieslander A. E.
Published: July 2010

Through stereoscopic study of aerial photographs many features of the vegetation and also ground features can be directly identified. This has a practical application in mapping vegetation and soils in upland areas of California. This paper describes how vegetation types can be identified by analysis of the features visible on aerial photographs. It then describes how soil mapping is facilitated by photo interpretation of ground features, land form, and vegetation.
Uses of Soil‐Vegetation Survey Information in Watershed Management
Authors: Rowe P. B. , Colman E. A.
Published: July 2010

Managing land for purposes of flood and erosion control and for maximum yield of usable water requires, among other things, knowledge of the hydrologic properties of soil in particular areas. Such knowledge can be obtained in the course of soil‐vegetation surveys if the surveys are planned to provide the needed kinds of information. This paper discusses the kinds of information required, and points out the need for improved methods of measuring the hydrologic characteristics of soils. In addition, it describes the hydrologic properties of three wild land soils in Mendocino County, California, and interprets these properties in terms of some of their watershed management implications.
The Fertility Status of Soils in Important Agricultural Areas of Colombia
Authors: Baird Guy B. , Rodriguez J. Manuel , Vega J. Victor M. , Aristizabal G. Alfonso
Published: July 2010

Field fertilizer trials were conducted in four of the important agricultural areas of Colombia. These areas were the Sinu and Cauca Valleys, the Savanna of Bogota, and the Mountains. Elevation ranged from about 70 to 10,000 feet above sea level with a correspondingly wide range in temperature, soils, and crops. Greenhouse pot tests with lettuce as the indicator crop and laboratory studies were made on samples of soils from field test sites.

Soils from the Savanna of Bogota and the Mountain areas were found to be low in available P as shown by crop response in the field. Yield increases of about 40% were obtained with both potatoes and wheat by application of P fertilizer. There was little crop response to added N fertilizer, except in the Mountain area. With the exception of one soil, K was found to be present in ample quantities for the crops tested in all of the areas. There was a poor correlation between the field response to applied N and P, and the greenhouse and laboratory results under these widely different soil conditions.

Mean values for soil pH were inversely related to the elevation of the areas. Values for pH ranged from 6.6 for the sample from the Sinu Valley (elevation 66 feet) to 5.2 for the Mountain area (elevation 7,000 to 10,000 feet). Mean organic matter content of the soil was positively related to the elevation. Mean values for organic C were 2.07 and 9.44% for the Sinu Valley and Mountain areas, respectively.
A Soil‐Column Study to Compare the Chemical Availability and Movement of Phosphates from Liquid and Dry Fertilizers
Authors: Langguth Robert P. , Brautigam George F. , Loveless L. E.
Published: July 2010

The chemical availability and movement of phosphates from liquid fertilizers and highly water‐soluble dry fertilizers were compared using four widely different California soils. Comparisons of the chemically available phosphate and migration of the phosphates were made at various time intervals after fertilizer application. The method used in determining chemically available phosphate was chosen because it has been reported as one of the best methods for correlating chemically available phosphate with plant growth.

The availability of phosphate from liquid fertilizers was either equal to or greater than the phosphate availability from dry fertilizers having a highly water‐soluble phosphate source. The movement of the phosphate from the liquid fertilizer was essentially the same as that obtained from the dry fertilizers. While it is true that the quantity of applied phosphate remaining on the soil surface was greater from the solid fertilizers than from the liquid fertilizer, the amount of surface phosphate was only a small fraction of the total applied phosphate.
The Association between Free‐Water Evaporation and Evapotranspiration of Spring Wheat Under the Prevailing Climatic Conditions of the Plains Area of Montana
Authors: Army T. J. , Ostle B.
Published: July 2010

In a study involving over 25 years of crop and weather data at 2 stations in the Northern Plains of Montana, evapotranspiration of dryland spring wheat was negatively correlated with free‐water evaporation. In years of high temperatures and low rainfall, i.e., high free‐water evaporation, reduced crop growth and an inadequate supply of soil moisture resulted in low evapotranspiration.

Cultural practice and geographic location influenced the amount of evapotranspiration per unit of free‐water evaporation. A greater amount of evapotranspiration per inch of free‐water evaporation always resulted under fallow than under continuous wheat.

When adjustments were made for variation in size of plants (evapotranspiration/total dry weight ratio), the correlation between free‐water evaporation and evapotranspiration per unit of dry matter produced was positive. However, the degree of association between free‐water evaporation and the evapotranspiration ratio was apparently reduced by limited soil moisture supply.

The effects of cultural practice, geographic location, and limited moisture supplies on the magnitude of evapotranspiration per unit of free‐water evaporation detract considerably from the value of free‐water evaporation measurements as an indication of water use by wheat plants under semiarid conditions.
Effect of Vegetation Upon Aggregation in Strip Mine Spoils
Authors: Wilson H. A.
Published: July 2010

Material from vegetated and barren (nonvegetated) portions of strip mine spoils and adjacent unstripped soils were wet‐sieved through a series of standard mesh sieves. Five coal‐land strip mine spoils and two century‐old ironore spoils were sampled. The fractions remaining on each sieve were dried, weighed, and examined, using a stereoscopic microscope at a magnification of 15X. Differences in weight between the sieved fractions and the fractions remaining on the sieves from chemically dispersed samples were also determined. The actual aggregates, stones, and bits of coal were counted and the percentage aggregation calculated.

The results show that the total weight of the wetsieved fractions from the vegetated (reforested iron‐ore spoils) and nonvegetated spoils is statistically less than that from the undisturbed soils. The percentage of aggregation in the coal‐land spoils is of the following order: nonvegetated < vegetated < undisturbed. The reforested iron‐ore spoils are not as well aggregated as the adjacent soils.

The type of vegetation on spoils, as on soils, was also found to be an important factor in aggregation. In general, on these coal‐land spoils aggregation increases in the following order; based on the type of vegetation: nonvegetated < pine < locust < forage grasses and legumes.
The Retention and Reactions of Anhydrous Ammonia on Different Soil Types
Authors: McDowell L. L. , Smith G. E.
Published: July 2010

Soil texture had a pronounced effect on ammonia movement and retention. The greatest movement of ammonia occurred in the sand and silt loam soils; and the least movement in the clay. The loss of ammonia from the airdry, acid sandy soil at a 6‐inch depth of application was 44 times the loss from the calcareous clay soil receiving ammonia at comparable moisture and depth. The retentive capacity of a soil for ammonia increased greatly as the texture became heavier. The loss of ammonia from the air‐dry, calcareous clay soil was negligible even at the 3‐inch depth of application. A considerable portion of the nitrogen applied as anhydrous ammonia was lost to the atmosphere or was fixed in some form making it non‐extractable by the chemical analysis used. The amount of ammonia fixed increased with the greater clay content of the soil.

The presence of high concentrations of ammonia in a localized area resulted in the partial breakdown of the soil organic matter. As a result of nitrification and the subsequent increase in hydrogen‐ion concentration this condition was no longer observed at the end of 4 weeks of incubation.

Ammonia losses were reduced considerably when the application was changed from 40‐inch to 16‐inch spacings and the rate applied per acre was maintained a constant.
The Potassium Status of Hartsells Fine Sandy Loam as Affected by Potassium Fertilization
Authors: Rouse R. D.
Published: July 2010

The K status of Hartsells fine sandy loam was characterized in the field by cropping for 18 years at rates of K ranging from 0 to 80 pounds per acre followed by 9 years of cropping without further additions. The K supplying power, exchangeable K, K content of cotton leaves, and cotton yield were determined annually during the residual period. These data indicate that the easily replaceable nonexchangeable K and the exchangeable K are both of value in sustained crop production.

The rate of K application found to be adequate during the rate's study was inadequate when applied to former check plots until the application had been repeated annually for 5 or 6 years. It was found feasible to bring plots to a desired level of exchangeable K by discreet additions.
Sequence Relationships of Loess‐Derived Forested Planosols in Southeastern Iowa
Authors: Cain Charles C. , Riecken F. F.
Published: July 2010

According to genetic theory, the loess‐derived soil series of southeastern Iowa can be arranged in a number of sequences. As for a number of other sequences studied previously, there is increasing clay in the Bt layer with decreasing loess thickness. The forested Planosols have an A1(Ap)A2BgC1 genetic horizon sequence. They have greater textural differences and a more abrupt boundary between the A and B horizons than any other sequence. In the forested Planosols, there is a secondary accumulation of N and organic P in the B horizon; the free Fe tends to accumulate in the A2B transition layer.
Spring Wheat Production and Soil and Water Conservation as Influenced by Methods of Summer Fallowing on a Chestnut Soil in Northeastern Montana
Authors: Power J. F. , Aasheim T. S. , Hartman G. P.
Published: July 2010

Five methods of summer fallowing commonly employed in the spring wheat producing area of Montana were evaluated in respect to their effects on grain yield and quality, and on soil and moisture conservation. This study was conducted under dryland conditions on a Chestnut soil during the period 1949 to 1956.

During seasons of normal or above‐normal growing conditions, grain yields were not significantly influenced by the method of fallowing employed the previous summer. Under poor growing conditions, grain yields were generally highest on plowed fallow.

Protein content of the grain was slightly lower on stubble‐mulch than on plowed fallow. Test weights of the grain were highest on stubble‐mulch fallow. Other fallow methods were generally intermediate between plowed fallow and stubble‐mulch fallow in respect to grain quality.

Soil‐moisture content at seeding time was not affected by fallow method. Stubble mulching provided the best soil erosion control. Fall tillage could not be recommended from the data collected in this study.
Available Water‐Holding Capacity of Alluvial Soils in Louisiana
Authors: Lund Zane F.
Published: July 2010

A water‐holding capacity survey consisting of 22 profiles in Louisiana gave a positive correlation of 0.626 for silt and range of available moisture. Data indicated clay held moisture at suction values too high for plant availability. A negative relationship existed between sand and range of available water. Permeability was positively correlated with percent large pores.

Many of the soils of Louisiana range from medium to fine texture and have large amounts of water available to plants. Permeability is a problem due to the low percent large pores.
Chestnut, Chernozem and Associated Soils of Western North Dakota
Authors: Mogen C. A. , McClelland J. E. , Allen J. S. , Schroer F. W.
Published: July 2010

Chestnut or Chernozem soils may occur in close association with Regosols, solonetzic soils and Calcium Carbonate Solonchaks, the Chernozems occurring in the moister northeastern portion. The morphology of these soils is discussed and some physical and chemical data are presented.
The Electric Balance Technique for Measuring the Mass and Charge of Clay Particles
Authors: Perrier Eugene R. , Evans D. D.
Published: July 2010

The electric balance technique, as employed by R. A. Millikan in measuring the charge of an electron, was used to simultaneously measure the mass and charge of individual kaolinitic, air‐dry clay particles. Also, it was possible with the same equipment to estimate the mass of the particles from the velocity of fall in air through the application of Stokes' law. A comparison of the two values is an evaluation of the error involved in using Stokes' law for kaolinitic clay particles.

The mass could be measured to three significant figures in the range of 10‐12 g. by the electric balance technique, while to only two significant figures by the method involving Stokes' law. The calculated mass was from 0.0 to 80% higher by the former method than by the latter, which is an indication of the error from applying Stokes' law to irregularly shaped clay particles. The number of charges measured initially on the air‐dry particles ranged from 14 to 369. The nature and source of these charges were not determined.
Distribution of Fixed Ammonium in Soils
Authors: Stevenson F. J. , Dhariwal A. P. S.
Published: July 2010

Fixed ammonium was determined in 17 profiles representative of most of the great soil groups occurring within the North Central Region of the United States. The results showed that a vast reservoir of N exists in the terrestrial areas of the world as ammonium held within the lattice structure of clay minerals, thereby revealing a heretofore missing link in the N cycle.

The amount of fixed ammonium in the soil was found to depend upon the type and amount of clay minerals present. With respect to clay mineral type, the order was illite > montmorillonite > kaolinite. Drainage, type of vegetative cover, and extent of leaching of the profile by percolating water had little effect on the fixed ammonium content of the soil. Cropping decreased the amount of fixed ammonium in surface soil; however, the fraction of the N present as fixed ammonium was greater for cropped soil than for uncropped soil.
Properties and Genesis of Finer Textured Subsoil Bands in Some Sandy Michigan Soils
Authors: Wurman E. , Whiteside E. P. , Mortland M. M.
Published: July 2010

Field and laboratory studies show that the nonlimy, more reddish, finer textured layers (Bt) found in the subsoils of three coarse‐textured soil profiles in Michigan contain a considerably higher concentration of silicate clay minerals and “free iron oxide” than the adjoining sandier layers. These layers also have slightly more organic matter than the adjoining sandier layers, and considerably less organic matter than the Bhir horizons in the same or associated profiles. These textural bands may or may not be from the same initial material as the horizons immediately above or below them. They are wholly or in part the result of pedogenetic processes.

Both physical and chemical mechanisms are probably involved in the textural band formation. The existence of complexes of “free iron oxide”‐silicate clay‐organic matter in the soil and their ability to move through artificial columns containing natural nonlimy soil material was demonstrated in the laboratory. In addition, the movement of silicate clay and iron‐organic matter complexes simultaneously or at different times can be postulated. The deposition of the individual complexes or a combination of them may be caused by a chemical interaction between them, physical factors such as wetting and drying of the soil, or the activity of a third agency on one or both of the mobile constituents, e.g., free lime flocculating clay and/or organic‐iron complexes. Results indicate that a combination of the above mentioned factors is needed to explain the physical, chemical, and micropedological observations.
A Mineralogical Characterization of Some Loess‐Derived Soils in Illinois
Authors: Johnson P. R. , Beavers A. H.
Published: July 2010

Six soil profiles representing successive stages of development in Peorian loess were studied by X‐ray diffraction to determine any changes in mineralogical composition of the silt fraction in relation to their maturity. The quartz, albite, and microcline contents were determined using NaF as an internal standard. The dolomite content was determined with the carbon‐induction furnace. The quartz content of the fine silt fraction increased progressively in the A horizons, did not change significantly in the B horizons, and increased slightly in the C horizons with distance from the loess source or bluff. Concomitant with the increase in quartz in the A horizons the feldspar content decreased, indicating the greater susceptibility of the latter to weathering. The slight increase in quartz content in the C horizons was due to the presence of dolomite in the younger soils and the absence of dolomite in the more mature soils. Quartz/feldspar ratios, an index of the weathering of the minerals, increased significantly for the fine silt fraction with increasing distance from the loess source. Albite weathered at a faster rate than microcline in the fine silt fractions. No significant change in the quartz and feldspar content of the coarse silt fraction was observed.
Integrating Soil Moisture Characteristics With Classification Units of Some Illinois Soils
Authors: Bartelli L. J. , Peters D. B.
Published: July 2010

Soil moisture characteristics (15 atm., 1/3 atm., etc.) were determined for 31 soil types representing the major great soil groups recognized in Illinois. In addition such physical properties as bulk density and mechanical analysis were also determined for the principal soil horizons. Available soil moisture and field capacity was shown to vary by textural classes for each soil group studied. For example it was found that silt loam soils of the Gray‐Brown Podzolic averaged more available moisture in the A horizon than the Brunizems and Planosols. It was found that the available soil mositure was highly correlated with the 1/3‐atm. percentage but not correlated with the 15‐atm. percentage. The available moisture was controlled principally by the silt fraction.
Transpiration Evaluation of Corn Grown on a Plastic‐Covered Lysimeter
Authors: Harrold L. L. , Peters D. B. , Dreibelbis F. R. , McGuinness J. L.
Published: July 2010

Corn grown on plastic‐covered monolith lysimeters at Coshocton showed that a very good crop was produced using only the water stored in the soil. A yield of 125 bushels per acre was obtained by using only 8.5 inches of water from the soil. From June 6 to September 9 when the cover was in place, estimated evaporation and measured transpiration amounts were an approximate 45:55 ratio. For the entire growing season, May 1 to September 9, it was estimated that the evapotranspiration would be composed of 56% evaporation and 44% transpiration. Estimated soil moisture evaporation was compared with actual pan evaporation. The ratio of soil to pan evaporation was found to vary from nearly 1 when the soil was moist and the cover scanty to a very small figure when the soil was dry and with maximum canopy shading.

Water‐use efficiency was greatly increased by use of the plastic cover because loss of water by evaporation was eliminated. The above average temperatures and increase of apparent condensation on the plastic‐covered lysimeter are discussed.

Stopping evaporation while permitting normal infiltration amounts resulted in increased percolation of 2.19 inches during the corn season. Residual effect on percolation noted during the normal recharge season that followed was only 0.33 inch.
Changes in Soil Compressibility Associated With Polyelectrolyte Treatment
Authors: Taylor Howard M. , Vomocil James A.
Published: July 2010

A laboratory study was conducted to evaluate some effects of a 0.1% IBMA treatment on the compressibilities of Yolo silt loam and Columbia loam soils. Samples were compressed at moisture contents ranging from oven‐dry to near moisture equivalent with pressures up to 50 psi. Due to their initially higher specific volume, treated soils were more compressible than checks. The IBMA‐treated soils retained higher specific volumes after compression at each of the several moisture contents and at each pressure. Differences in specific volume between compressed treated and compressed untreated soils decreased as the moisture content at compression, or the pressure used for compression, increased.
Tracing Moisture Movement in Slick Spot Soils with Radiosulfur: Part II
Authors: Lewis G. C. , Jordan J. V. , Fosberg M. A.
Published: July 2010

A study was made of the pattern of moisture movement in slick spot and associated soils. Field experiments to trace moisture movement in slick spot soils were run on rangeland south of Boise and on irrigated land on the Black Canyon tract near Caldwell. Radiosulfur in the form of dilute sulphuric acid was absorbed by a wad of cotton. Each wad was specifically placed at a different depth in or adjacent to a slick spot. After several months, soil and plant samples from the areas indicated that characteristic patterns of moisture movement had occurred.

On the tagged slick spots in the rangeland, the greatest concentration of activity, hence the least moisture movement, was in the B2t and B3sa horizons, the zones of maximum clay and salt accumulation, respectively. When the S35 was placed in the Cca horizon, the activity moved upward into the B3sa and B2t horizons, indicating the upward movement of moisture.

When the tracer was placed in the Ap, top of the B2, or in the B3 horizon at the edge of the slick spot in the irrigated soils, there was movement downward and concentration in the C horizon. There was more concentration of activity in the direction toward the slick spot than away. Plants growing in the direction of the slick spot contained more radiosulfur than those growing in the direction away from the spot.

The pattern of moisture movement in the associated soils, both in the rangeland and irrigated soils, was in all directions from the placements and had a low index value, indicating free movement of moisture throughout the profile.
The Effects of Drying on the Mechanical Strength of Lloyd Clay
Authors: Gill William R.
Published: July 2010

Increases in the mechanical strength of a Lloyd clay soil were associated with moisture losses which occurred during the aging periods. While increases of 140% resulted from conditions favoring low moisture losses over a period of 240 days, this strength was approximately one‐fifth that attained by larger moisture losses during a period of 3 hours. It appears that drying is one of the more important factors contributing to strength increases which were associated with the aging of this soil.
Source and Time of Application of Nitrogen for Rye Forage
Authors: Morris H. D. , Jackson James E.
Published: July 2010

The effectiveness of five sources of N for rye forage production was compared in a 3‐year field experiment on Cecil sandy loam. Each source of N was applied at the rate of 120 pounds per acre by two methods: (1) All N at planting, and (2) one‐half N at planting and one‐half February 15.

Ammonium nitrate, sodium nitrate, urea, and ammonium sulfate were found to be equally effective as sources of N for rye forage. Calcium cyanamid was an inferior source of N producing approximately 400 pounds per acre less forage than the other fertilizers.

Applying the N in split application resulted in approximately 300 pounds per acre more forage than applying all the N at planting. All sources of N responded similarly to split‐application. Applying all the N at planting increased the forage production at the first 2 clippings an average of only 100 pounds per acre for all N sources as compared to the split application.
Response of Cotton and Corn to Deep Placement of Fertilizer and Deep Tillage
Authors: Patrick W. H. , Sloane L. W. , Phillips S. A.
Published: July 2010

Deep placement of fertilizer and deep tillage were evaluated as to their effect on crop yields and root development. Experiments conducted for several years on four soil types showed that greater root development in the subsoil and increases in yield may be expected from deep fertilizer placement and deep tillage on soils that possess traffic pans. This was particularly evident in years of below average rainfall, when the increased root development in the subsoil caused by deep placement of fertilizer or deep tillage enabled the crop to better withstand dry periods.
Influence of Exchangeable Hydrogen and Calcium, and of Sodium, Potassium and Ammonium at Different Hydrogen Levels on Certain Physical Properties of Soils
Authors: Martin J. P. , Richards S. J.
Published: July 2010

These studies were undertaken to determine the influence of exchangeable Ca and H and of Na, K, and NH4 at different H levels on the aggregation of < 50µ particles and on water conductivity by a method involving compaction of the soil into the conductivity cylinders while moist. Variation of the exchangeable H of three soils from 0 to 85% and of the Ca from 5% to excess, exerted very little influence on aggregation, bulk density, hydraulic conductivity, or moisture retention at 1/10‐, 1/3‐, or 1‐bar suction. Increasing Na reduced aggregation and conductivity. Increasing exchangeable K or NH4 only slightly reduced soil aggregation but greatly reduced water conductivity. Increasing exchangeable H increased the dispersing action of Na, K, and NH4.
Energy Balance Approach to Evapotranspiration from Crops
Authors: Tanner C. B.
Published: July 2010

The vertical energy balance yields reliable estimates of evapotranspiration on an hourly (or half‐hourly) basis under large variations of thermal stratification provided under large variations of thermal stratification provided the measurements are made close to a reasonably homogenoeous surface and provided that suitale spacial and time‐sampling procedures are followed. The energy balance method is relatively insensitive to incorrect assumptions concerning the eddy coefficients and to estimates of the Bowen ratio (ratio of sensible to latent heat) except during the unusual, and most often uninteresting, condition where the evaporatin approaches the sensible heat flux to the surface (E = ‐A). The energy balance method, which measures the radiation exchange at the surface, places reasonable limits on evaporation estimates and thus is a promising method for daily estimates provided either periods of positive and megative net radiation are considered separately or that a reasonable estimate of the 24‐hour Bowen ratio can be developed. In hu,id regions there is little vertical transfer of sensible heat to the surface, so that when “potential evapotranspiration” conditions are obtained, the evapotranspiration will approximate the daily net radiation. In arid regions the evapotranspiration from a well=watered field may be, under extreme conditions, almost twice the net radiation.

Though the vertical energy balance is not adequate for estimating evapotranspiration from small plots, consideration of the complete energy balance indicates serious limitations of small‐plot experiments for evaluation of field practice. Energy balance measurements on corn, including the measurement of the radiation transmitted to the soil surface, indicates that the heat exchange at the soil surface is an appreciable fraction of the total heat exchange even in mature corn at high populations. Because of the relatively high heat exchange at the soil surface, an under‐standing of capillary movement of soil water to the soil surface is necessary if the evaporation and transpiration components of consumptive‐use are to be evaluated from experiments on corn and other plantings that do not fully intercept the radiation.
Podzols in the Vicinity of the Nelchina and Tazlina Glaciers, Alaska
Authors: Kubota Joe , Whittig L. D.
Published: July 2010

Soils that resemble Podzols occur on well‐drained valley slopes and ridges in areas adjoining the Nelchina and Tazlina Glaciers in interior Alaska. These soils had strikingly thin solum and were distinguished by marked textural differences that coincided with major horizon boundaries in many cases. Studies of six profiles from this area showed that the upper horizon, commonly the A2, is a silt loam and probably of loessial and volcanic ash origin, whereas the underlying gravelly sandy loam is of glacial drift origin. The surface silt appears to result from a lithologic discontinuity in the parent material and not from weathering. The presence of the discontinuity was reflected in textural differences and in base status of these soils, but the morphologic characteristics were those of Podzols. These soils appear related to the northern dwarf Podzols or nanopodzols (Kubiena).
Evaporation from Layered Soils in the Presence of a Water Table
Authors: Willis W. O.
Published: July 2010

Evaporation from two‐layered soil systems with varying depths to water table is described for steady‐state conditions. The difference in evaporation rate from a system of fine‐textured soil overlying a coarse soil compared to a homogeneous profile of fine‐textured soil may be relatively small. A reversed condition of layers may have a large effect on evaporation rates.

It appears that for many practical purposes the presence of inhomogeneities may be of little consequence when the water table is relatively deep. It also appears that a weighted‐average capillary conductivity curve might give satisfactory results in calculating estimated evaporation rates.
Effect of Allyl Alcohol on Micropopulation of Prairie Soils and Growth of Tree Seedlings
Authors: Yatazawa M. , Persidsky D. J. , Wilde S. A.
Published: July 2010

The treatment of mycorrhiza‐free prairie Carrington silt loams with allyl alcohol at a rate of 25 to 200 gallons per acre produced a strong, stimulating effect on the growth of Monterey pine seedlings, originating from sterilized seed. Microbiological analyses revealed that the application of allyl alcohol causes a nearly instantaneous replacement of the native fungal population by Trichoderma viride; the application of allyl alcohol exceeding 100 gallons per acre considerably decreased the population of bacteria and actinomycetes. As indicated by soil and foliar analyses, the treatment considerably increased the availability of nutrients, especially phosphorus and potassium. The pronounced succulent nature of the seedlings suggested the effect of a growth‐promoting substance. Some of the seedlings raised in prairie soils treated with allyl alcohol revealed well‐developed coralloid mycorrhizae. The origin of the mycorrhizae‐forming organism is uncertain.
A Comparison of Microbial Respiration in Soils After a 20‐Year Period of Subtilling or Plowing
Authors: Olson G. W. , McCalla T. M.
Published: July 2010

Respiration of organisms was determined on soil samples taken at 0‐ to 1‐, 1‐ to 6‐, and 6‐ to 12‐inch depths from subtilled or plowed Sharpsburg silty clay loam soil in a corn‐oats‐wheat rotation at the Agronomy farm at Lincoln, Nebraska. Plots had been subtilled or plowed continuously over a 20‐year period.

Respiration was greater in samples from subtilled plots at 0‐ to 1‐inch depth than in similar samples from plowed plots. This difference was probably due to a higher organic matter and microbial content of the stubble‐mulch soil. There was less difference in respiration due to tillage at the 1‐ to 6‐ and 6‐ to 12‐inch depths. Statistically significant differences in respiration of soil samples from the corn, oats, and wheat plots were found at the 0‐ to 1‐inch level. Oxygen uptake by the incubated soil samples decreased with depth of sampling. Drying and remoistening of samples was found to increase respiration rates.

Respiration was measured after various organic materials (starch, mannitol, dextrose, wheat straw, lignin), herbicides (2, 4‐D, dalapon, carbamate), inhibitor (KCN), and mineral nutrient solution were added at several concentrations to soil from both subtilled and plowed plots. Soil samples from subtilled plots generally gave greater respiration than samples of plowed soil, regardless of additive. Increasing concentrations of test materials added to soil generally increased respiration, except KCN which with increasing concentrations decreased respiration. The effects of the various additives were similar regardless of the tillage practice to which the sample had been subjected. This would indicate that the nature of the microbial respiration in both tillage systems was similar qualitatively, although quantitatively subtilled surface soil gave greater respiration.
Nitrogen Fixation by Some Algae in Arizona Soils
Authors: Cameron Roy E. , Fuller Wallace H.
Published: July 2010

Algal and lichen crusts and subsurface soil samples were collected from virgin and cultivated areas and analyzed for nitrogen and carbon. These crusts were incubated in the laboratory to determine if nitrogen could be fixed with time under the conditions stated. Algae isolated from the crusts also were tested for nitrogen‐fixing ability and quantitative information was obtained for some species in pure and mixed culture experiments. Species of algae belonging to the genera Nostoc Vauch., Scytonema Ag., and Anabaena were shown to fix atmospheric nitrogen. Certain coccoid forms may fix nitrogen. In the absence of Azotobacter, soil algae were shown to grow autotrophically and to contribute appreciably to the combined carbon and nitrogen status of Arizona soils.
Effects of Fertilizer Applications on Two Generations of Slash Pine
Authors: Mergen Francois , Voigt G. K.
Published: July 2010

A series of 37 plots was established on which three formulations of fertilizer were applied at five rates to two age‐classes of slash pine growing in Florida. The fertilizer caused increases in the nutrient contents of needles and branches of the younger trees and of cones and seeds in the older trees. Basal‐area growth was increased as much as 32% in the older trees. Fertilizer treatments had no significant effect on cone length but produced heavier seeds. When these seeds were germinated in the greenhouse, they produced larger more vigorous seedlings with higher contents of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium than did seeds produced on control trees.
Soil and Water Losses and Infiltraton Rates on Ida Silt Loam as Influenced by Cropping Systems, Tillage Practices and Rainfall Characteristics
Authors: Moldenhauer W. C. , Wischmeier W. H.
Published: July 2010

Soil and water losses from a coarse loess soil in western Iowa have been measured since 1948 on a series of 10.5‐ by 72.6‐foot plots on 12% land slope. In a 2‐year rotation of corn‐oats with sweet clover catch‐crop, corn planted up‐and‐down slope averaged about 25 tons of soil loss per acre per year over the period 1948 through 1957. Contouring reduced the annual loss to 10 tons per acre, and listing on the contour reduced it to 5 tons per acre. Average annual soil loss from corn contour listed in a cornoats‐meadow‐meadow rotation was 1 ton per acre. Effectiveness of contour surface planting decreased as storm erosivity increased and for the most erosive storm soil loss exceeded that from up‐and‐down‐hill planting. Prior to the final cultivation effectiveness of contour listing did not decrease as storm erosivity increased. The effect of cultivation practices on aggregate stability and infiltration rate is discussed.
Forms of Newly Fixed Phosphorus in Three Acid Sandy Soils
Authors: Yuan T. L. , Robertson W. K. , Neller J. R.
Published: July 2010

Soils were extracted successively with 1N NH4Cl, 0.5N NH4F, 0.1N NaOH and 0.5N H2SO4 solutions to represent water‐soluble, aluminum, iron and calcium phosphates, respectively. Over 80% of the added phosphorus was retained by the soils as aluminum and iron phosphates. Less than 10% was in the water‐soluble and calcium phosphate forms. The balance not accounted for may have been in forms other than those mentioned.

The ratio of aluminum phosphates to iron phosphates increased with the rates of applied phosphorus for the three soils. This was more evident for Red Bay fine sandy loam and Norfolk loamy fine sand than Leon fine sand.

Increasing soil drying temperature decreased the percentage of phosphorus in the aluminum phosphate form, but increased that in the iron phosphate form. The prolonged alternate wetting and drying reduced the percentage of phosphorus in aluminum form in Red Bay fine sandy loam and Norfolk loamy fine sand, and increased the percentage distribution in iron form in Red Bay fine sandy loam and Leon fine sand.
Fungi and Nematodes in South African Citrus Orchard Soils in Relation to the Citrus Replant Problem
Authors: Martin James P.
Published: July 2010

Trichoderma viride, Aspergillus fumigatus, Penicillium javanicum, P. decumbens, and P. lilacinum constituted dominant fungus species in South African virgin soils which were present in much smaller numbers in adjacent citrus soils. The most dominant forms in old citrus soils were Fusarium solani, Fusarium spp. including F. oxysporum, Penicillium chermesinum, Pullularia pullulans, and Pyrenochaeta sp. Aspergillus niger, Mucor spp. and many others were present in about equal abundance in both old citrus and virgin soils. Phytophthora species were isolated from about a third of the old citrus soils but were not found in virgin soils. The citrus root nematode, Tylenchulus semipenetrans, was found in all but one of the old citrus soils examined but was not detected in the virgin soils. Nematodes isolated from both type soils included Trichodorus sp., Xiphinema sp., Rotylenchus sp., and numerous saprophytic species. Helicotylenchus sp. was noted in virgin soil only. The magnitude of the citrus replant problem in South Africa varied greatly but, in general, appeared to be less severe in well‐drained acid sandy soils containing relatively large numbers of the fungus, Trichoderma viride.