Phosphorus diffusion in soils in relation to some edaphic factors and its influence on P uptake by maize and wheat

Abstract

Summary Laboratory studies were conducted on four soils to ascertain the effect of P content and texture on the capacity factor (P buffering capacity) of soils and in turn the effect of these factors combined with moisture content of soil on the diffusion coefficient of P (Dp). A glasshouse experiment was conducted to study the relationship of Dp with P uptake by maize and wheat. The buffer capacity decreased by the application of P in all four soils. There was a significant negative correlation between buffer capacity and Olsen's extractable P but positive correlation with other soil factors. The relative influence of different soil variables on the buffer capacity was in the order: free iron > percentage clay > exchangeable aluminium. The Dp value increased significantly with applied P, the maximum (3·2-fold over control) being in Tolewal loamy sand. The increase in clay and moisture content of soil also increased the Dp value. The drymatter yield and P uptake was significantly correlated with Dp, the r value being higher at later stages of growth of maize and wheat.