Effects of biotite syenite on the nutrient levels and electrical charges in a Brazilian Savanna Ferralsol

Abstract

In the Brazilian Savanna, most of the soils have a low natural fertility. In order to overcome this limitation, farmers use large amounts of soluble fertilizers, causing environmental impacts. In the present study, finely ground biotite syenite (0; 600; 1,200; 1,800; and 2,400 kg ha-1) was evaluated as an alternative source of nutrients and electrical charges in a weathered Ferralsol from the Brazilian Savanna. Additionally, the development and nutrition of maize plants were analyzed. The values of Ca + Mg, T, t, Zn, Cu, Fe and Mn in the soil were not affected by the addition of biotite syenite, but the available P and K and the permanent charges were increased. The biotite did not increase the contents of P, Ca and Cu in the maize leaves, but it increased the contents of N and K. Increases of 103, 125 and 128 % were also detected, respectively, for plant height, stem diameter and leaf dry matter. The biotite syenite was able to increase the soil P, K and permanent charges, as well as the maize uptake of N and K, thus helping in the plant growth.

Rock Powder Enhances Soil Nutrition and Coffee Quality in Agroforestry Systems

“…Electrical conductivity also affects coffee density [56]. Our results show that lower electrical conductivity produces denser coffee beans, especially when fertilized with gneiss powder, like in AFS + (RYA) .…”

“…When P interacts with Si in the soil, it can increase the availability of P [55] due to its desorption in clay minerals [56]. Together with soil microbiota [57], this is one of the main mechanisms of P availability in weathered soils [58].…”

“…This finding corresponds with results from DaMatta [82], (Figure 4). Denser fruits produce better quality beverages as they have a lower percentage of defects, and the beans contain greater physical integrity [56], possibly due to better plant nutrition from the minerals in gneiss. The presence of K in the soil is essential for producing a higher-quality coffee, especially when N (nitrogen) is present for the formation and physical integrity of the beans, chemical composition, and final quality of the beverage [83].…”