Distribution of Micronutrients At Various Depths in a Central Missouri Corn and Soybean Field.

Micronutrients, although required in smaller amounts compared to macronutrients, are essential for the health and growth of plants. A study was conducted to map the distribution of iron (Fe), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), boron (B), zinc (Zn) and Mn from 0 to 60 cm depth in a corn and soybean field. Soil samples were collected at four depths (0-10cm, 10-20, 20-40 and 40-60cm) in a field divided into 48 plots, each measuring 12.19 m x 21.34 m. Samples were air dried, sieved and sent to a commercial laboratory for analysis. The distribution of B, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn and Al in the soil depths was mapped using ARCGIS 10-Geostatistical Analyst Extension. Results showed that in the first depth (0-10 cm), micronutrients varied from 363 to 671 mg/kg for Al, 0.24 to 1.12 mg/kg for B, 1.88 to 3.85 mg/kg for Cu, 123 to 213 mg/kg for Fe, 76 to 224 mg/kg  for Mn  and from 5.52 to 116.20 mg/kg for Zn. Maps showed a similar distribution pattern for Al and Cu with a zone of high nutrient concentration in the middle of the plot. Mn and Zn were also similar, but opposite. B and Fe displayed multiple zones spanning across the field.