Use of waste pyrites from mine operations on highly calcareous soil

Abstract

Abstract A waste pyrite material containing 45% S from a mine operation in Colorado when applied at a rate equivalent to 400 metric tons/ha to a highly calcareous soil overcame Fe deficiency in the Fe‐inefficient PI54619–5–1 soybeans (Glycine max L.). Zinc concentrations in leaves and stems were increased simultaneously. On a slightly acid soil the same level of pyrite considerably acidified the soil and resulted in toxicities. In another experiment in which the pyrite was mixed with small quantities of soil and applied in bands in the center of the pot, only 1/10 as much pyrite was necessary to overcome the Fe deficiency in the soybeans.