Soil phosphorus balance in Minnesota soils and its effects on soil test phosphorus and soil phosphorus fractions

Abstract

Phosphorus (P) fertilizer recommendations based on the build and maintain (B&M) or the sufficiency philosophies were compared at six sites across Minnesota. Various levels of soil test P (STP) levels were established over four growing seasons. Applied P and P removed in harvested grain were monitored and used to develop a soil net P balance (Net P). Linear regression of net P with changes in STP was highly significant. Initial STP levels could be maintained at four of the six sites with a negative Net P. At those same sites, a zero Net P would tend to slowly increase STP over time. A sequential soil P fractionation analysis was conducted on soils from the six sites at the initiation and at the end of the 4-year period. Nine total soil P fractions were extracted that represented both inorganic P (Pi) and organic P (Po) in the labile and non or less labile soil P pools. A positive linear relationship between Net P and changes in Pi fractions was significant. As Net P increased, so did the changes in Pi in the Resin, BiCarb, and NaOH fractions. These three fractions accounted for 66% to >100% of the changes in Net P with Resin and NaOH accounting for the majority of Net P. Changes in Net P that were accounted for in the less labile P pools, Sonic and HCl fractions, variable, and difficult to determine. There was little effect of Net P on Po fractions.