Physical, Chemical and Mineralogical Characteristics of Important Mississippi Soils

Abstract

To realize the crop production potential of soils it is necessary to first have a knowledge of their chemical, physical and biological properties and reactions and then to so alter these properties and reactions to effect a medium optimum for plant growth. In the past, soils have been classified primarily on the basis of physical characteristics observable in the field. Although the soil survey reports resulting from field studies of observable soil physical characteristics provide valuable information, several physical and chemical measurements on soils provide information useful in the intelligent establishment of soil management practices such as irrigation, tillage, drainage, liming and fertilization. The measurements made on the soils discussed herein include mechanical composition, aggregate stability, bulk density, moisture content at 1/3 and 15 atmosphere tensions, pH, organic matter content, cation exchange cap a cit y, exchangeable potassium, available phosphorus and mineralogical composition. The data obtained from these measurements may assist in resolving certain soil classification problems and in establishing suitable soil management practices.

Citation

Bruce, R. R.; Raney, W. A.; Broadfoot, W. M.; Vanderford, H. B. 1958. Physical, Chemical and Mineralogical Characteristics of Important Mississippi Soils. Technical Bulletin 45. State College, MS: Mississippi State University, Agricultural Experiment Station. 36 p.