Chemical Properties that Determine Boron Availability in Sugar Cane Soils

Resumen

Context: Several factors are limiting the behavior and dynamics of boron (B) in the soil. Few results on assimilable B contents in the soil and its relation to other chemical properties have been published.

Objective: To determine the contents of assimilable B and the chemical properties that condition its availability in three of the main soil types where sugar cane is cultivated.

Methods: The samples were taken at random from the surface (0-20 cm) of three of the main soil types where sugar cane is cultivated in Cuba. Soil assimilable B was determined by extraction with hot water. Classification of assimilable boron concentration relied on category ranges set up by Agrolab, (2005): low (˂0.5 mg kg^-1), mid (0.5 a 2.0 mg kg^-1), and high (˃2.0 mg kg^-1).

Results: The concentration of assimilable B varied according to the soil type, with a high dependence on chemical properties.

Conclusions: The B contents was highly dependent on variables K₂O, P₂O₅, Mg⁺ and Na⁺. The average B concentration was within mid-range values in vertisols and low in brown and ferralitic soils, with high variability. The contents of assimilable B should be further studied, along with the effect of limiting chemical, physical, and biological factors on the soil.