212-8 Potential Benefits From the Land Application of Gypsum to Mid South Soils.



Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Henry Gonzalez Convention Center, Hall C, Street Level

Leonel Espinoza, Mukhammadzakhrab Ismanov and Ballantyne Paul, University of Arkansas, Little Rock, AR
Many soils in the Mid South are characterized by significant amounts of silt (60-70%), which makes them prone to surface crusting after a rainfall event. This condition forces Arkansas farmers to increase seeding rates, particularly cotton, to ensure proper emergence. However, this practice increases production costs significantly. Additionally, a significant percentage of Mid South soils contain a fragipan horizon, which is characterized by acidic pH, with extractable aluminum levels in excess of 250 mg/kg. The objective of this paper is to discuss the extend and implications of the issues described above and the potential role of gypsum on addressing them.
See more from this Division: ASA Section: Environmental Quality
See more from this Session: Gypsum Use: Impact On Agricultural Productivity and Soil/Water Quality