Effects of magnesite fertilization on soil properties and nutrition status of weakened Norway spruce stands in the Śnieżnik Massif of Polish East Sudety Mountains

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of fertilization with magnesite, 6 years after its application. The magnesite fertilizer was applied in amount of 2,000 kg·ha-1 in 2006. Fertilization covers the surface of 43 ha. Soil exploration in fertilized and unfertilized areas was carried out in August 2012. Needles and soil samples were collected for basic laboratory analysis. The effect of magnesite fertilization in soil was detected down to the B horizon. The principal excess of exchangeable magnesium (88%) was found in the surface organic horizon, while a substantial excess of total magnesium (57%) was detected in the top mineral horizon. The fertilization with magnesite caused the decreasing: acidity, ratio of calcium to magnesium in the absorption complex, supply of calcium in soil. Additionally, an increased magnesium supply in soil and its effect in the needles of the investigated spruce stands were noted. Research study confirm the usefulness of ground magnesite in elimination the deficit of magnesium in soils and needles of spruce stands in the Śnieżnik Massif for an extended period of time. Fertilization with magnesite at low doses may bring beneficial and quick effects to the health condition and productivity of spruce stands growing on soils well supplied with nitrogen.

Keywords: spruce stands decline; soil properties; fertilization with magnesite, spruce nutrition status.