Long-term changes in the nutrient pools of forest soil organic horizons between 1949/50 and 1987, Alltcailleach Forest, Scotland

Citation

Billett M, FitzPatrick EA & Cresser MS (1993) Long-term changes in the nutrient pools of forest soil organic horizons between 1949/50 and 1987, Alltcailleach Forest, Scotland. Applied Geochemistry, 8 (Supplement 2), pp. 179-183. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0883-2927%2809%2980033-4

Abstract
Fifteen soil profiles from the Alltcailleach Forest, northeast Scotland were first sampled in 1949/50 and resampled in 1987. The original soils were stored and each of the sites accurately relocated. Previous studies showed that soil chemical changes over the 37/38-a period are characterized by decreases in pH, base saturation and CEC and increases in extractable Al and S04. Median decreases in pH of the upper O horizon and the lowermost B/C horizon were 0.28 and 0.26 pH units, respectively. Samples collected from the upper organic horizons of these soils were analysed for total Ca, Mg, Na, K, P and N. Long-term changes in total element contents were characterized by decreases in Ca, Mg, P and N and increases in Na; there were no changes in K concentrations. Between 1949/50 and 1987 increases in the thickness of the forest soil organic horizon resulted in an increase in the total amounts of nutrients stored in the forest floor. The increases in organic horizon thickness therefore largely override the decreases observed in nutrient concentrations. Accumulation rates have been estimated for each of the elements, and changes in nutrient concentration and storage are discussed in terms of effects on forest nutrient cycling.

Journal
Applied Geochemistry: Volume 8, Issue Supplement 2