bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Houston Black Clay, the Type Grumusol: II. Mineralogical and Chemical Characterization
Authors: Kunze G. W. , Templin E. H.
Published: July 2010

The following analyses are reported on each of the several horizons of five profiles of typical Houston Black clay from widely separated sites in Texas described in Part I: particle size distribution, organic matter, calcium carbonate equivalent, exchange capacity, ethylene glycol retention and pH. In addition X‐ray diffraction analyses are reported for the following fractions: silt (0.05 to 0.002 mm.), bulk clay (<2µ), coarse clay (2µ to 0.2µ) and fine clay (<0.2µ). Differential thermal analyses are presented for the <0.2µ fraction.

The average clay (<2µ) content for the 5 profiles varied between the narrow range of 57.7% and 60.8%. Fine clay (<0.2µ) was found to make up as much as 84% of the total clay fraction. The calcium carbonate equivalent varied from a minimum of 5.4% to a maximum of 70.2%. Zones of calcium carbonate enrichment resulting from leaching were not found. Organic matter in the surface horizons (0 to 18 inches) from virgin sites varied from 3.06% to 8.34%. The silt fractions are very largely quartz and calcite. Quartz predominated in the silt fraction from surface horizons, while calcite increased with depth and in three profiles assumed the dominating role in the C horizon. Montmorillonite strongly predominated the clay fraction (<2µ) and based upon X‐ray diffraction and exchange capacity studies it occurs in essentially a pure state in the <0.2µ fraction of three profiles. The exchange capacities for the A1‐1 horizons averaged 64 me. while the average for the C2 horizons was found to be 40 me.

The Houston Black clay has developed from soft calcareous sediments. The mineralogical and chemical measurements indicate that no pronounced weathering of these sediments has occurred.
Moisture Utilization by Several Forage Crops
Authors: Willits N. A. , Erickson A. E.
Published: July 2010

During the growing seasons 1951–53, the moisture used by 2 grasses and 2 legumes was determined by use of Bouyoucos blocks. Stage of crop development had more effect than weather on water use. Water use appeared to reach a maximum around July 1. The peak water use per day was 0.13 inches. The average was considerably less.

Most of the water used from the profile by all crops was removed from the surface 9 inches (the depth of the Ap layer). Very few grass roots extended below 30 inches. The consumptive use of water under fescue sod was less than under bluegrass. Frequent clipping of the grasses resulted in less total water use but a greater percentage use from the surface layer.

There was a very good correlation between the amount of water used from a horizon during a drying‐out period and the amount present in the horizon at the beginning of that period. The correlation decreased with depth. It appears that the water was removed from the horizon where it was most abundant.
Soil and Plant Responses to VAMA and HPAN Soil Conditioners in the Presence of High Exchangeable Sodium
Authors: Allison L. E.
Published: July 2010

This paper summarizes two experiments with polyelectrolyte soil conditioners to determine their effect on an irrigated soil—Pachappa loam—having a high content of exchangeable sodium. The conditioners were applied, at the 0.1% rate to a depth of 6 inches, with sufficient mixing to insure thorough incorporation of conditioner with soil. Sweet corn was used as the test crop.

The initial study was started in 1951 and continued for 4 cropping seasons. Treatment of high‐sodium plots with VAMA in solution gave a large increase of aggregates larger than 0.10 mm. diameter, gave up to 10‐fold increases in infiltration rate, and greatly reduced modulus of rupture values, resulting in increased emergence and stand of crops. Large increases in yield of sweet corn were obtained as a result of soil physical improvement. For the 4 annual crops, the average yield increases due to treatment were 75, 200, and 260% on 3 plots having initial exchangeable‐sodium‐percentages of 29, 40, and 47, respectively.

In a second and larger experiment begun in 1952, the VAMA and HPAN type of polyelectrolytes (100% active) and their respective clay formulations (25% active) were thoroughly incorporated as a dry treatment into moist soil. For high‐sodium Pachappa loam soil and at the rates of application used, there appeared to be little or no difference in performance between the two types of conditioners or between formulations for a given type. Soil and crop responses due to treatment were similar to those obtained in the first experiment.

Sodium removal from the top 6 inches of soil, as a result of irrigation, was approximately twice as rapid on plots treated with conditioner as for plots not so treated. In the second experiment, the effect of the conditioner treatment in facilitating sodium removal was equivalent to a 2‐ton application of gypsum.
Fertilizer Evaluation: III. Availability Coefficient of Water‐Soluble and Citrate‐Soluble Phosphorus in Acidulated Phosphate Fertilizers
Authors: Black C. A. , Webb J. R. , Kempthorne O.
Published: July 2010

A method is described by means of which the availability coefficient of citrate‐soluble relative to that of water‐soluble phosphorus may be evaluated when mixtures of the two phosphorus fractions are present in different proportions in two or more fertilizers. Knowledge of the relative availability coefficients of these two fractions, together with knowledge of the percentage content of the fractions, permits prediction of the relative availability coefficients of phosphorus in the different fertilizers. Application of the method to data obtained from experiments in which superphosphate and various nitric phosphates were compared as sources of phosphorus for corn showed that the ratio of the availability coefficient of citrate‐soluble phosphorus to that of water‐soluble phosphorus decreased from 0.85 to 0.16 as the fraction of the fertilizer phosphorus in citrate‐soluble form increased from 0.56 to 0.95.
The Relationship of Chloride and Sulfate Ions to Form of Nitrogen in the Nutrition of Irish Potatoes
Authors: Harward M. E. , Jackson W. A. , Piland J. R. , Mason D. D.
Published: July 2010

A greenhouse experiment using sand cultures was conducted to study the role of chloride and sulfate anions in the nutrition of Irish potatoes when different forms of nitrogen were used. The experiment consisted of two series, the first in which all N was supplied as NO3‐ and the second in which both NH4+ and NO3‐ were present. Treatments within each series consisted of plants receiving different amounts of sulfate and chloride. The initial solution concentrations of all ionic species except NH4+, NO3‐, Cl‐, and SO4= were the same for each treatment.

Two distinct foliar symptoms associated with treatments were observed. The first, a tip burn associated with high SO4= treatments, was more severe when NH4+ was present than when NO3‐ was the only source of N. The second, characterized by rolling of the leaves, was obtained only with Cl‐ treatments in the presence of NH4+. This was not observed when NH4+ was used in the absence of Cl‐ or when NO3‐ was added in the presence of either Cl‐ or SO4=.

Increasing Cl‐ and decreasing SO4= concentrations in the presence of NH4+ resulted in marked reduction in the yield of fibrous roots. Additions of Cl‐ generally resulted in decreases in the percentage of dry matter in the tops and this effect was more pronounced in the presence of NH4+. In the NH4NO3 series, reductions in chlorophyll content resulted from increased supply of Cl‐ and simultaneous decrease of equivalent amounts of SO4=. No change in these pigments was obtained in the NO3‐ series. The mineral content of the potato leaves was affected both by form of N and by Cl‐ and SO4= concentrations. The Cl‐ content of the leaves was markedly increased in the presence of NH4+.
A Two Nutrient‐Response Function with Determination of Economic Optima for the Rate and Grade of Fertilizer for Alfalfa
Authors: Pesek John , Heady Earl O.
Published: July 2010

A replicated fractional factorial experiment with phosphorus and potassium fertilizer variables was conducted with alfalfa growing on Webster silty clay loam in 1952. Fertilizer was topdressed before growth was initiated in the spring, and the yields of hay determined from two cuttings. The range of fertilizer applications was wide enough to reach maximum yields.

The data were analyzed and three different two‐variable equations were fitted to the observations. The equation which resulted in the best correlation with the observed data from this experiment was of the general form,
urn:x-wiley:03615995:saj2sssaj195603615995002000020025x:equation:saj2sssaj195603615995002000020025x-math-0001 where Y is the yield, and K and P the pounds of K2O and P2O5 per acre respectively. The correlation coefficient was 0.8793 and significant at the 1% level. The last four coefficients of K and P were also significant at this level, while the first coefficient of K was significant at the 5% level.

It was shown how this equation representing the response surface can be used to (1) determine the rates of P2O5 and K2O combinations which resulted in the same yield levels; (2) calculate the least cost combination of the two nutrients for any given yield; (3) calculate the marginal yields of both nutrients; (4) determine the optimum level of application of each nutrient at constant levels of the other; and (5) calculate the optimum levels of both nutrients varying simultaneously.

Finally, it was illustrated how the least cost combination, and rates of application of the two nutrients varied as different prices for fertilizer elements and hay were assumed under the conditions of this experiment.
The Effect of Crop Residues on Soil and Water Losses from Corn and Winter Wheat
Authors: Gard L. E. , Klingebiel A. A. , Van Doren C. A.
Published: July 2010

Soil and water losses from plots planted to a corn, winter wheat, and lespedeza rotation were measured for 14 years. The plots, located on Grantsburg silt loam were 70 feet long and on slopes of 5% and 9%. During the period 1939–46, crop residues were removed or grazed from the plots. From 1947 through 1953, crop residues were returned to the plots. The average annual precipitation was 3 inches greater during the 1947–53 period than in the 1939–46 period. The maximum rainfall intensity (15‐minute period) for the storms producing over 80% of the total soil loss was highly significantly greater during the 1947–53 period, when crop residues were returned, than in the 1939–46 period, when crop residues were removed.

Comparable individual storms that produced over 80% of the total soil loss were analyzed for each of the two periods. Soil loss “per inch of rain” from corn plots was over three times greater when residues were removed than when they were returned on both the 5% and 9% slopes. Soil loss “per inch of rain” from winter wheat plots on the 5% slope was 3.9 times greater, and on the 9% slope 2.4 times greater when the residues were removed than when they were returned.

During the 1947–53 period, soil losses from winter wheat plots were more than 2 times greater from 9% slopes and over 3 times greater from 5% slopes than from similar plots planted to corn. Crop residues on the surface reduced soil losses but did not materially change the amount of runoff from soils having a very slowly permeable subsoil.

Data from individual storms producing over 80% of the total soil loss from winter wheat plots for the 1939–53 period were analyzed by the multiple regression method. The partial regression coefficient was determined between soil loss per inch of precipitation and rainfall intensity in inches per hour for the most intense 15‐minute period. Keeping the variables of antecedent rainfall and total precipitation constant, the analysis indicated significant differences (1) between the rate of soil loss on 9% slopes where residues were returned as compared to where they were removed, and (2) between the rate of soil loss on 5% slopes as compared to 9% slopes where all residues were removed.
A Numerical Solution of the Differential Equation of Flow for a Vertical Drainage Problem
Authors: Day Paul R. , Luthin James N.
Published: July 2010

The drainage rate of a uniform soil overlying a continuous gravel substratum is difficult to predict because of the fact that the soil moisture tension and the capillary conductivity of the soil vary with the water content. Richards' differential equation of flow furnishes a theoretical basis for analysis. The equation can be solved numerically by finite differences when the capillary conductivity and the water content have been determined at various values of the soil moisture tension. An illustration and experimental test of the method are given for the drainage of a column of fine sand.
Phosphate Supply Pattern of Various Soils
Authors: Fried Maurice , Shapiro R. E.
Published: July 2010

The pattern of phosphate supply in soils of different phosphate level was investigated by three techniques: continuous soil leaching, successive hourly equilibrations, and intermittent leaching in the presence of growing plants. All three approaches gave similar results.

The pattern of phosphate supply for the four low phosphate‐fixing soils could be predicted by assuming the phosphate released was a desorption phenomenon as described by the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. The pattern of phosphàte supply for the three high phosphate‐fixing soils could be predicted by assuming that in the presence of water a saturated solution of a chemical compound was formed.

The level of phosphorus in the initial water extract was not a good indication of plant‐available phosphorus. Both the intensity of soil phosphate supply and the capacity of the soil to rapidly renew this supply must be evaluated to adequately describe plant‐available phosphorus in the soil.
Nitrogen, A Key Factor in Fertilizer Phosphorus Efficiency
Authors: Olson R. A. , Dreier A. F.
Published: July 2010

The action of N in promoting fertilizer P utilization was studied in the field and greenhouse over a period of 4 years using P32 tagged superphosphate as the tool for uptake evaluation. Wheat and oats were used as indicator crops on several soils, employing different rates, times, and methods of application, and different forms of N and P.

Fertilizer N stimulates plant use of fertilizer P throughout a wide range of soil conditions. The NH4+ ion apparently exceeds NO3‐ in this capacity, especially during early stages of plant growth, the maximum influence of either occurring with intimate association of the fertilizer N and P. In greenhouse plant production, a rate of slightly > 20 pounds of N per acre is sufficient to bring about the maximum proportionate change in fertilizer P use over soil P. With a given low rate of P application, the N effect may be as much as doubling the rate of fertilizer P use with little change in soil P use. The phenomenon apparently accounts for the reported greater early utilization of P from ammonium phosphates than from non‐ammonium bearing but otherwise similar orthophosphate compounds.

There seems little doubt of a physiological function of N stimulating root activity in the absorption of fertilizer P, in consideration of several earlier works and the observations here. This, coupled with observed root concentration in the zone of joint N‐P placement could largely account for the greater fertilizer P uptake under consideration. Whatever the full explanation, this is a principle of utmost significance in plant nutrition, practical application of which probably can be obtained only with a current annual crop where fertilizing the crop at a low rate, rather than the soil at a high rate, is practiced.

A related incidental finding is the high efficiency associated with side‐band placement of N + P fertilizer in small grain seedings. Such a placement has advantage over placement with the seed in that the entire quantity of N required can be supplied with the P application without endangering germination and stand under limited soil moisture conditions, while at the same time permitting the maximum N effect on fertilizer P to be manifest.
The Effect of Liming on the Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Phosphorus by Several Crops Grown on Acid Organic Soils
Authors: Lawton K. , Davis J. F.
Published: July 2010

The effect of liming two strongly acid Rifle peat soils on the growth and absorption of soil and fertilizer phosphorus by field beans, sudan grass, and corn was studied under greenhouse conditions.

The dry weight of field beans was markedly increased by applying up to 12 tons of CaCO3 per acre. In contrast, the growth of corn was depressed when more than 3 tons of CaCO3 per acre was applied. Liming had little or no effect on the yield of sudan grass. Concentrated superphosphate (49% P2O5 tagged with P32) mixed with the organic soils was very effective in increasing the growth of corn, but less benefit was noted with field beans and sudan grass.

The phosphorus content of plants was progressively depressed by successive increments of CaCO3. Distinct phosphorus deficiency symptoms were evident on corn grown in soil receiving the highest lime rate. The use of superphosphate eliminated all signs of phosphorus starvation in corn and significantly increased the phosphorus content of each crop at all lime levels. It is suggested that the depression in percent plant phosphorus caused by liming was due to a decrease in the proportion of H2PO4‐ to HPO4= ions in the soil solution.

The percent of plant phosphorus derived from fertilizer was generally progressively reduced by increasing amounts of lime. At the rate of 50 pounds of P2O5 per acre, this percentage was approximately ½ that found in plants receiving the 200‐pound P2O5 per acre application. Though the amount of fertilizer phosphorus absorbed by corn was many times that by field beans, the percent of fertilizer derived phosphorus in the two crops was quite similar at any given lime‐superphosphate level.

Laboratory studies indicated that liming followed by 6 months of moist incubation had little effect on the amount of phosphorus extractable in a dilute hydrochloric acid‐ammonium fluoride solution.
Effect of Soil Moisture and Depth of Application on Retention of Anhydrous Ammonia
Authors: Stanley Frank A. , Smith G. E.
Published: July 2010

A procedure for the accurate application of small quantities of anhydrous ammonia to soil and measurement of losses has been developed. Retention of ammonia was high when applied to soils of optimum moisture content, or when placed at least 6 inches deep in dry soil. Losses were much greater when applied to wet soils. The loss from wet soil was gradual, indicating the escape was not from the knife openings. When anhydrous ammonia equivalent to 100 pounds of nitrogen per acre in 40‐inch spacings was applied, some soils could not adsorb this amount in the diffusion area. As moisture evaporated from the surface, the ammonia moved upward and was lost. When ammonia was released in the soil, movement upward was greater than to the side or below the point of release. Movement and retention were greater in cloddy soil than where there was good crumb structure. Anhydrous ammonia increased the availability of phosphorus, had little effect on exchangeable potassium, but depressed the availability of calcium. The magnitude of the effects of ammonia on these ions is probably of little practical importance.
Effect of Rainfall and Fertilization on the Yield and Chemical Composition of Alfalfa over a 10‐Year Period in North Central Oklahoma
Authors: Harper Horace J.
Published: July 2010

Climatic environment had a greater influence than soil treatment on the quantity of nitrogen, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus in 26 cuttings of alfalfa hay grown on the Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Perkins Farm, from 1937 to 1946. The protein content of the first cutting of alfalfa was equal to, or higher than, the protein content of the second or third cuttings of hay in 8 out of 9 years. The calcium content of the hay was usually high when soil moisture was low, and low when soil moisture was high during the growing period. The minimum and maximum percent of calcium in different cuttings varied nearly 100%. The potassium and phosphorus content of different alfalfa cuttings varied more than 100%. A luxury potassium consumption by alfalfa occurred on this soil. Lower phosphorus percentages usually were observed in the alfalfa hay when rainfall was low for several weeks before the crop was cut. Factors which increased or decreased the quantity of phosphorus obtained by the alfalfa plants from the natural phosphates in the soil had a similar influence on the uptake of applied phosphates. The average absorption of phosphorus from rock phosphate by alfalfa was similar to the quantity of phosphorus obtained from superphosphate on unlimed soil, but was slightly lower on the limed plots. A greater variation occurred in the nitrogen and phosphorus content of the stems than in the leaves of mature alfalfa plants grown on variously treated plots.
Relation of Soil Potassium and Magnesium to Magnesium Nutrition of Citrus
Authors: McColloch R. C. , Bingham F. T. , Aldrich D. G.
Published: July 2010

Soil and leaf analyses were made in connection with six field experiments involving orange trees fertilized with potassium and/or magnesium. Experimental plots were located in 6 orchards in 4 southern California counties.

The concentration of magnesium in spring‐cycle leaves was correlated with the degree of leaf symptoms characteristic of magnesium deficiency. Addition of magnesium fertilizer resulted in a marked increase in leaf magnesium and a disappearance of deficiency symptoms. Potassium fertilization accentuated magnesium deficiency. Deficiency symptoms were associated with leaf magnesium concentrations of 0.20% or less. The ratio of exchangeable K/Mg in the soil (particularly the 18‐ to 30‐inch depth) was highly correlated with the percent magnesium in the leaves.
Pedology of an Arctic Brown Profile near Point Barrow, Alaska
Authors: Drew J. V. , Tedrow J. C. F.
Published: July 2010

The Arctic brown profile forms on the medium and coarse textured material of well‐drained sites in the Alaskan Arctic Slope. The profile shows an accumulation of organic matter in the A1 horizon, a weak translocation of Fe, Al, and Mn, and an accumulation of fines in the surface horizon, probably resulting from aeolian activity. Organic matter decreases from 11.48% in the A1 horizon to less than 1% in the A2, A3, and C horizons, and the strongly developed profile colors are thought to be due primarily to this organic matter distribution. C/N ratios of the organic matter vary between 16:1 and 18:1. Base saturation is very low in the surface layer but increases with depth, and free carbonates are present in the lower horizons. Clay composition consists mainly of 2:1 layer silicates with small quantities of kaolinite. No authigenic weathering of primary minerals was detected.

Fragmental data indicate that Arctic brown soil forming processes may operate in other tundra and alpine regions of the world.
Water Content Changes Following Irrigation of Bare‐Field Soil That is Protected from Evaporation
Authors: Ogata Gen , Richards L. A.
Published: July 2010

Water content changes were measured in a field plot of sandy loam soil. Following basin irrigation with 35 cm. of water, the soil surface was sealed with a sheet of polyethylene and covered with 10 cm. of straw. The measurements were made over a 50‐day interval during the summer of 1955. It was found for this soil that the water content, WD, expressed in surface cm. of water in a surface layer of soil of depth D cm. could be closely related to the time T in days following irrigation by WD = (0.52 + 0.209 D + 0.00053 D2) T‐0.128. The downward flow rate dWD/dT = vD, expressed in cubic cm. per sq. cm. per day, as related to depth, and time is obtained by differentiation of the water content equation. Hydraulic head values in the field soil were measured. The capillary conductivity values calculated from the field data were found to be in agreement with values obtained previously by both laboratory and field methods for this soil.
Seedling Emergence of Wheat, Grain Sorghum, and Soybeans as Influenced by Soil Crust Strength and Moisture Content
Authors: Hanks R. J. , Thorp F. C.
Published: July 2010

A technique was devised for studying plant seedling emergence through soil crusts where soil crust strength, soil moisture content, and soil type could be varied independently. Wheat, grain sorghum, and soybeans were studied with crust strengths from 0 to 1,400 millibars (as measured by the modulus of rupture) and soil moisture content from field capacity to ¼ available (¼ of the available water remaining in the soil). Preliminary tests were made to determine the reliability of the modulus of rupture as a measure of crust strength with respect to seedling emergence.

Wheat seedling emergence was not influenced by seed spacing or crust thickness for a wide range of crust strength as measured by the modulus of rupture. It was concluded from this study that the modulus of rupture is a good measure of crust strength as related to seedling emergence of wheat and similar plants.

Soil crust strength limiting seedling emergence for the plants studied was dependent on the soil moisture content. At a given crust strength, seedling emergence was lowest where the soil moisture content was lowest. At constant moisture content, seedling emergence decreased with increasing crust strength for the plants and soils studied. However, partial seedling emergence occurred on all treatments even where crust strength was as high as 1,400 millibars.
Mineralogical Analyses of Soil Clays from Colorado Surface Soils
Authors: Schmehl W. R. , Jackson M. L.
Published: July 2010

Minerals in the fine silt and clay were determined for six cultivated soils in Colorado. The clay fraction was segregated into coarse, medium, and fine particle size groups. By means of combined data from total potash, exchange capacity, water and hydroxyl content, surface measurements, and X‐ray diffraction analyses, the relative amounts of minerals in each size fraction were estimated.

The sum of quartz and feldspar ranged from 55 to 70% in the fine silt and from 30 to 55% in the coarse clay. Small amounts of chlorite identified in the fine silt and coarse clay fractions were generally interlayered with 2:1 layer silicates. There was 20 to 36% illite and 4 to 11% kaolinite in the 2µ clay fraction. The total expanding mineral (montmorillonite plus vermiculite) content of the 2µ clay varied from 36 to 57%. The expanding minerals in the soil clays were more variable in properties than standard reference clay minerals. Interstratification of 2:1 layer lattice silicates was observed in all fine silt and clay samples.
The Comparative Rate of Nitrification of Anhydrous Ammonia, Urea, and Ammonium Sulfate in Sandy Soils
Authors: Eno Charles F. , Blue William G.
Published: July 2010

Three acid sandy soils, Arredondo, Leon, and Klej fine sands, were used in comparing the rates of nitrification for anhydrous ammonia, urea, and ammonium sulfate in the laboratory. Anhydrous ammonia stimulated the nitrification process more than equivalent applications of ammonium sulfate in limed and unlimed soil. The stimulating effect of urea was of the same general order as anhydrous ammonia. Anhydrous ammonia applied to the soil raises the pH into a more nearly optimum range for nitrification and initially provides a base for the neutralization of the nitric acid produced. This process can be effective only so long as high concentrations of ammonia are present in the soil; in these soils, which nitrified at low rates, this period of time was long enough to initiate a good rate of nitrification. The stimulating effect may also occur with field applications of anhydrous ammonia, since an adequate concentration of ammonia is retained in a relatively small volume of soil. The stimulation of nitrification by anhydrous ammonia has not been definitely shown under field conditions; this has probably been due to failure to properly delineate the retention zone into a central core where ammoniacal nitrogen was high enough to be initially toxic to the nitrifiers and an optimum zone between the toxic concentration and that in untreated soil.
Morphology and Genesis of Calcisols
Authors: Harper W. G.
Published: July 2010

This paper outlines principal characteristics of a group of soils that occur mainly in the arid and semi‐arid regions. They have been derived from parent materials high in calcium carbonate. An outstanding characteristic of these soils is a prominent horizon of calcium carbonate accumulation at or near the depth of rainfall penetration. The term Calcisols is proposed for this group of soils. Field descriptions and laboratory data are presented for Calcisols and some closely related types. Genetic processes in the formation of the soils are discussed, especially the apparent effects of calcium carbonate in retarding weathering processes and precluding the formation of silicate clay minerals.
Mineralogical Composition of Glacial Materials as a Factor in the Morphology and Genesis of Some Podzol, Gray Wooded, Gray‐Brown Podzolic, and Humic‐Gley Soils in Michigan
Authors: Bailey H. H. , Whiteside E. P. , Erickson A. E.
Published: July 2010

In this study the relatively unweathered glacial materials underlying 39 soil sites, representing 23 soil series, in Michigan were studied. The mineralogical compositions of the sand and silt fractions from those materials and some observations on the methods used in these determinations are reported here. The bulk densities, mechanical compositions, mineralogical compositions of the clay fractions, and acid soluble portions of each horizon of the soil profiles at these sites had been studied earlier. Some relationships of the mechanical to the mineralogical compositions of the glacial materials and their relations to the properties of the overlying soils are discussed.

As the number of particles per gram of the materials studied increased, the percentages of quartz decreased and the unidentified portion of the sample—chiefly in the clay fraction—increased. The mineralogical composition of the materials under different toposequences of soils indicated that in most cases field observations had correctly grouped mineralogically similar materials.

The calculated mechanical compositions and thicknesses of the sola that had apparently formed from materials similar to the glacial materials underlying them, were compared to those of their parent rocks, assuming that no net change had occurred in the mass of the acid insoluble portion. The sola had increased in thickness, except where the parent rocks contained more than 12% of acid soluble materials. In the latter cases, there had apparently been some collapse or shrinkage of the material associated with the removal of the soluble portion.

The net increases in clay contents of the sola of mineral soils in Michigan, compared to their parent rocks, are apparently small and decreases in clay contents are common, particularly in the Podzol—Gray Wooded (or Gray‐Brown Podzolic) Intergrade or Humic‐Gley profiles and the Gray Wooded or Gray‐Brown Podzolic soils formed from fine‐textured materials. The percentage increases in clay contents relative to that in the parent rocks are small except in very sandy materials where most of the clay, even though small in amount, may be pedogenic in origin.
Preparation and Use of 3‐Dimension Projections in Teaching Soil Classification
Authors: Scholtes Wayne H.
Published: July 2010

The study of relationships of geomorphology, soil parent materials, and soil type is greatly facilitated in classroom teaching through the use of 3‐dimension projections. Such projections can be prepared from existing photo flights already available in most areas by masking out identical photo areas in the overlap portion of adjacent photos. Separate negatives of each area placed in a stereo slide mount will enable a large group to view the topography in 3‐dimension through use of stereo equipment and polarized glasses.
Effects of Good Management Following Soil Erosion
Authors: Free G. R.
Published: July 2010

It has been reported previously that corn yields for a 2‐year period on Bath flaggy silt loam, despite liberal fertilization, ranged from 17 to 88 bushels per acre depending upon past management and erosion during the preceding 11 years.

By the ninth year of continued good management, including fertilization and rotation and with a low rate of erosion, there were still significant residual effects of past treatments on productivity and on soil characteristics. Under a fertilizer treatment comparable to that followed during the initial 2‐year period, corn yields ranged from 71 to 93 bushels per acre. This treatment provided nitrogen at the rate of 100 pounds per acre. Residual effects on yields were effectively masked when the rate was raised to 200 pounds per acre.
Cylinder Infiltrometers for Determining Rates of Irrigation
Authors: Slater C. S.
Published: July 2010

Infiltration rates on cultivated soils were determined by sprinkling and by means of water impoundment in small cylinder infiltrometers. Sprinkling procedures with a type FA infiltrometer, irrigation equipment, or manually controlled sprinkling were used in a manner that provided rate measurements. The cylinder infiltrometers were “single‐ring” type.

Good correlation was obtained between sprinkler and cylinder infiltration rates by replication on cultivated soils. Correlation improved when median rates rather than mean rates, as measured with the cylinders, were used to reduce the effect of exceptionable intake values.
Root and Soil Relationships Associated with the Pole Blight Disease of Western White Pine
Authors: Leaphart Charles D. , Copeland Otis L.
Published: July 2010

Root density and mortality were determined in 30 healthy western white pine (Pinus monticola Dougl.) stands ranging from 20 to 160 years old. Similar determinations were made in 16 stands of the 60‐ to 80‐year age class affected by pole blight, a disease of unknown cause. Various physical soil characteristics were measured in 26 healthy and diseased stands of the 60‐ to 80‐year age class in conjunction with the root study.

Both rootlet mortality and density in the upper 1 foot of soil in the 60‐ to 80‐year age class are significantly correlated with the available water storage capacity in the soil depth occupied by a major portion of the root system. The available water storage capacity is dependent upon effective soil depth. As the severity of pole blight increases, rootlet mortality increases and available water storage capacity and effective soil depth become less. These results indicate an edaphic relationship to the pole blight disease.
A Modification of the Hydrometer Method of Mechanical Analysis for Certain Western Forest Soils
Authors: Youngberg C. T.
Published: July 2010

Difficulty in getting complete dispersion of the sample for mechanical analysis has been experienced with many western forest soils. In this study four different methods of dispersing the samples were investigated. Samples were pretreated with hydrogen peroxide to destroy the organic matter. A 5% Calgon solution was used as the dispersing agent. Two methods of dispersion involved the use of a standard milkshake mixer and two methods the use of a reciprocating shaker. Dispersion methods were as follows: first, dispersing for 30 minutes with a standard mixer; second, dispersion with a mixer equipped with a larger paddle; third, shaking for 12 hours on a reciprocating shaker; and fourth, addition of sodium hydroxide to the dispersing agent and shaking on the reciprocating shaker. The data revealed that dispersion was poorest with the standard mixer, and best with the reciprocating shaker. The increase in the clay content of the soils that had been dispersed on the shaker resulted from a better dispersal of the silt and sand size aggregates. For latosolic soils the addition of sodium hydroxide gave better dispersion than shaking without sodium hydroxide. With Western Brown Forest soils there was no difference with or without sodium hydroxide.
Inositol Hexaphosphate: II. Synthesis by Soil Microorganisms
Authors: Caldwell A. G. , Black C. A.
Published: July 2010

Organic phosphorus was accumulated in different soil parent materials, quartz sand, clays, and clay‐sand mixtures by adding organic and inorganic nutrients, moistening, inoculating with soil microorganisms, and incubating the materials for several months. The presence of mesoinositol hexaphosphate and a supposed isomer of this compound was demonstrated in these materials after incubation but not before incubation. Both substances were found in soils, but only meso‐inositol hexaphosphate was found in crude corn phytate. These results indicate that soil microorganisms are capable of synthesizing inositol hexaphosphate and suggest that all the supposed isomer and part of the meso‐inositol hexaphosphate found in soils are synthesized by microorganisms. The remainder of the meso‐inositol hexaphosphate of soils presumably is synthesized by higher plants.
Colloidal Properties of Some Florida Soils
Authors: Fiskell J. G. A. , Gammon N. , Yuan T. L. , Zmeskal O.
Published: July 2010

The relationships between the mineralogical nature of the colloid and the moisture equivalent, exchange capacity, and base saturation of several sandy loam and sandy soils are discussed. In profiles of Red Bay, Norfolk, and Tifton fine sandy loams exchange capacity, Ca, Mg, and K decreased with depth but clay content and aluminum saturation of these soils increased. In other Coastal Plain soils, namely Klej, Lakeland, and Bladen profiles, a low major base saturation was found with pH values above 5.0 and a high amount of exchangeable aluminum. Calcareous soils and montmorillonitic soils which also usually overlie calcareous material such as Pompano, Felda, and Sunniland sands contained appreciable aluminum extracted by neutral N NH4OAc. Titration curves were made of clays from several soils which differed in the vermiculite, montmorillonite, kaolinite, quartz, and gibbsite content and considerably different buffering capacities were observed. X‐ray diffraction patterns indicated that the mineralogical nature of the clay fraction is rather similar in all horizons of any particular soil profile with no consistent accumulation of one mineral over another. The significance of the exchange complex of these colloids is discussed in terms of major bases, aluminum, and pH. Examples of the accumulation of phosphate and heavy metals are given.
Soil Potassium‐Moisture Relations: III. Determining the Increase in Exchangeable Soil Potassium on Drying Soils
Authors: Hanway J. J. , Scott A. D.
Published: July 2010

A comparison was made of different extractants for determining the increase in exchangeable soil K which occurs on drying the soils. Moist and dry surface and subsoil samples of 10 Iowa soil profiles were used. The amount of K released on drying as determined by the different extractants was in the order:

NH4OAc > 0.5N HCl > 0.1N HCl > Morgan's solution when 10 g. of soil was leached with 75 ml. of extractant. The amount of K removed by the different extractants was linearly related and highly correlated irrespective of the moisture status of the soil sample, except in the case of some oven‐dry subsoil samples extracted with Morgan's solution. Apparently, some of the K that had been released to an exchangeable form on drying reverted to a non‐exchangeable form during the extraction of some subsoil samples with Morgan's solution.
Nature of Residual Nitrogen in Iowa Soils
Authors: White W. C. , Pesek John
Published: July 2010

Increased quantities of soil nitrogen resulting from nitrogen applied to corn 1 year previously were characterized as to the form and location in soil. Under the experimental conditions the residual soil nitrogen appeared to be chiefly in the form of nitrates in the 6‐ to 21‐inch layer. No appreciable quantities of residual ammonium nitrogen were found. Nitrification rate tests showed that effects of residual nitrogen on nitrifiable forms of nitrogen were negligible.

Quantities of residual nitrates in soil layers 0 to 6, 6 to 12, and 12 to 21 inches deep were related to the nitrogen yield of oats. As much as 90% of the total variations in nitrogen yield of oats were accounted for by the multiple regression of nitrogen yield on nitrate nitrogen found in the 3 soil layers. Simple linear regressions showed a high correlation between effects of residual nitrogen on nitrogen yield of oats and measured residual soil nitrates at the beginning of the oat season. Results of isotopic nitrogen measurements obtained from a greenhouse experiment provided additional evidence of residual nitrogen being present mainly as nitrates below the plow layer.
Fragipan Soils of Illinois: I. General Characterization and Field Relationships of Hosmer Silt Loam
Authors: Grossman R. B. , Fehrenbacher J. B. , Beavers A. H.
Published: July 2010

Bisequal soils with fragipans are common in southern Illinois. The purpose of this introductory paper is to set the general framework for understanding the nature and occurrence of these soils through the description of the morphology, chemical and physical properties, and field relationships of Hosmer silt loam, a soil with moderate fragipan expression.

The bisequal nature and expression of the fragipan increase with decreasing loess thickness and with latitude from north to south. Maximal expression is in the low, moderately well‐drained, topographic positions. It is suggested that these soils in Illinois are part of an interstate sequence extending southward into Mississippi, within the loess‐derived soils of the Mississippi River Valley.
Phosphorus Solubility in Calcareous Soils: I. Dicalcium Phosphate Activities in Equilibrium Solutions
Authors: Cole C. V. , Olsen S. R.
Published: July 2010

A theoretical background for the study of P solubility behavior in calcareous soils has been developed. The mean activity of dicalcium phosphate is used to express P solubility. Calculation of this function corrects for differences in the pH values, Ca concentrations, and ionic strengths which are encountered when a number of soil solutions are compared. The validity of this approach is based on the observation that the ion product aCa++ × aHPO4= in various solutions in equilibrium with a given soil remains constant over a range of values of pH, Ca concentration, and ionic strength.
Modern Concepts of the Genesis of Podzols
Authors: Stobbe P. C. , Wright J. R.
Published: July 2010

The major processes suggested in the literature for the formation of Podzols have been reviewed. Theories on the formation of negatively charged humus‐protected sols and of metal‐organic coordination complexes, including chelates, and on the immobilization of the sesquioxides and organic matter in the B by microbial activity, sorption and oxidation have been presented. It is concluded that, while the theories of complex formation and possibly chelation appear reasonable, more factual information is required on the constitution of the reacting organic substances and on the precipitation mechanism involved.
Adsorption of Hydrolyzed Polyacrylonitrile on Kaolinite: II. Effect of Solution Electrolytes
Authors: Mortensen J. L.
Published: July 2010

Adsorption experiments were conducted by mixing NaCl‐kaolinite and C14‐labelled hydrolyzed polyacrylonitrile (HPAN) in water solutions of various electrolytes. An increase in the concentration of electrolyte caused an increase in extent of HPAN adsorption, the effect apparently being due to reduction of electrostatic repulsion between HPAN and kaolinite and reduction in size of the HPAN coil. Divalent cations, especially the transition metals capable of being complexed, were more effective than univalent cations. Maximum adsorption took place in the presence of H+ ions.

Anions capable of complexing lattice aluminum and/or decomposing the clay crystal reduced adsorption of HPAN. There was some evidence of competition for adsorption sites.
Organic Matter Decomposition as Influenced by Oxygen Level and Method of Application to Soil
Authors: Parr J. F. , Reuszer H. W.
Published: July 2010

Laboratory experiments were conducted to determine the rate of decomposition of straw added to soil as a localized placement or mixed thoroughly with the soil when aerated with N2‐O2 gas mixtures containing 0, 2.5, 5.0 and 21% oxygen. Rates of decomposition and total decomposition were followed by determination of CO2 formed.

Early decomposition rates were somewhat lower with localized placement of the straw, but after 6 weeks of incubation there was little difference between the two methods of placement in total amount of straw decomposition.

Total decomposition after 6 weeks with 5.0, 2.5, and 0% oxygen in the aerating gas was equal to about 86, 70, and 13%, respectively, of that taking place when the aerating gas contained 21% oxygen. After 30 days of aeration at a 0% oxygen level, changing the aerating gas to a 21% oxygen level brought about a very rapid rise in the rate of decomposition.
Laboratory and Greenhouse Studies with Monocalcium, Monoammonium, and Diammonium Phosphates
Authors: Bouldin D. R. , Sample E. C.
Published: July 2010

Pellets of monocalcium phosphate monohydrate (MCP), monoammonium phosphate (MAP), and diammonium phosphate (DP) containing 15 mg. of P were placed on the surface of moist Hartsells fine sandy loam (pH 5.2) and Webster silty clay loam (pH 8.3). After 3 and 5 weeks the distribution and solubility of the soil‐fertilizer P reaction products were measured with soil samples taken at various radial distances from the center of the pellets. Plant response to pellets of fertilizer was measured in greenhouse experiments.

With both soils, distribution of total fertilizer P did not change appreciably in the interval between sampling periods. Fertilizer P moved about 2.5 and 1.5 cm. from the center of the pellets with the Hartsells and Webster soils, respectively. Differences among sources in the same soil were relatively small.

With the Hartsells soil, 6.5 and 11% of the fertilizer P was soluble in 1:15 soil‐water extracts with the MCP and DP sources, respectively; with the Webster soil the corresponding figures were 5.2 and 1.0%. The measurements of water‐soluble P in the laboratory explained 85% of the variation in plant uptake of P with the different fertilizers in greenhouse experiments. In laboratory and greenhouse experiments DP was superior to MCP in the Hartsells soil, while MCP was much superior to DP in the Webster soil. MAP was intermediate in behavior between the 2 other sources with the Hartsells soil, but was roughly equivalent to MCP with the Webster soil.
The Effect of Soil Solution Aluminum and Calcium on Root Growth
Authors: Ragland John L. , Coleman N. T.
Published: July 2010

The effect of lime level on the growth of grain sorghum roots into subsoils of the Norfolk catena was studied in a greenhouse experiment. The effects of lime and KCl on root growth of sweet corn and on soil solution concentrations of Al were investigated in a second greenhouse experiment. The latter was pursued further by growing grain sorghum plants in suspensions of White Store clay to which had been added various quantities of Ca(OH)2 and CaCl2.

The growth of roots into unlimed subsoils from the Norfolk catena was related inversely to the amounts of exchangeable Al. The percentage Al‐saturation of the catena members increased with decreasing natural drainage. Root growth into the subsoils increased substantially when lime sufficient to cause hydrolysis of the exchangeable Al was added.

The addition of KCl to unlimed Creedmoor, Portsmouth, and Appling soils increased the concentration of Al in soil solution to the point that growth of sweet corn roots was drastically reduced. When lime was added, corn roots grew well even at the highest level of KCl.

The development of roots by grain sorghum plants grown in suspensions of acid White Store clay (30 me. exchangeable Al per 100 g.) was restricted severely unless 80% of the acidity was neutralized. This was particularly true for the highest rate of CaCl2.