Soil characteristics of a Mollisol and corn (Zea mays L.) growth 20 years after topsoil removal
1986
Lindstrom, M.J. | Schumacher, T.E. | Lemme, G.D. | Gollany, H.M.
This study presents soil characteristics of a northern corn belt (U.S.A.) mollisol (fine, montmorillonitic, mesic, Typic Argiustoll) 20 years after 0, 30 and 45 cm of topsoil were removed. Evidence of pedogenesis could be observed in the surface horizon of the desurfaced plots, but development has not ameliorated the unfavorable characteristic caused by topsoil removal. Due to reduced organic matter and increased calcium carbonate content, greater fertilizer application rates were required for the desurfaced plots. An adequate level of phosphorus availability will be difficult to establish. The desurfaced plots had a higher mean weight diameter of the soil fraction <or= 9 mm and a higher proportion of massive soil units > 9 mm. Bulk density and clod density of the surface horizon was higher in the desurfaced plots. Desurfaced plots had a higher bulk density with depth. Less available soil water was present in the Ap horizon of the desurfaced treatments. The color of the surface soil appeared to influence soil surface reflectance. The lighter color of the desurfaced plots corresponded to lower soil profile temperatures. Combined characteristics of the desurfaced plots resulted in delayed emergence, reduced plant development and reduced stover and corn (Zea mays L.) grain yield.
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