Nutrients Dynamics in Peat Soil: Influence of Fluctuating Water Table

Abstract

This study assesses the dynamics of nutrients in peat soil under fluctuating water table using designated soil columns. Results showed that the concentration of total N and mineral-N (NO3-N and NH4+-N) were maximized when the water table was maintained at 40 cm. When the water table was fluctuated between 0-40 cm depth (representing the water table during wet season), soil available P reached its highest concentration in the soil. The fluctuation of water table between 40-80 cm depth (representing the water table during dry season) allows the gradual release of exchangeable K, Ca, Mg and Na. The study indicated that the fluctuating water table affects the different nutrients differently.