Pulse Brain · Growing Health Evidence Index
Tier 3 — Observational / field trialPeer-reviewed

The effect of soil organic matter on long-term availability of phosphorus in soil: Evaluation in a biological P mining experiment

J. M. B. Hawkins, Charlotte Vermeiren, M. S. A. Blackwell, Tegan Darch, S. J. Granger, S. J. Dunham, Javier Hernández-Allica, Erik Smolders, S. P. McGrath

Geoderma · 2022

Read source ↗ All evidence

Summary

This 2022 study investigated the relationship between soil organic matter levels and long-term phosphorus availability using a biological P mining approach. The research examined whether enhanced organic matter management could improve P solubilisation and accessibility in soils, with implications for reducing reliance on inorganic phosphorus fertilisers in agroecosystems. As suggested by the experimental design, the findings contribute to understanding organic matter's role in phosphorus cycling and nutrient accessibility.

UK applicability

The findings are directly applicable to United Kingdom arable and mixed farming systems, where phosphorus fertiliser efficiency and soil organic matter management are key sustainability challenges. Results may inform UK agricultural policy on reducing synthetic P inputs through soil carbon-building practices.

Key measures

Phosphorus solubilisation rates; long-term phosphorus availability; soil organic matter content; bioavailable phosphorus fractions

Outcomes reported

The study evaluated phosphorus solubilisation dynamics and long-term P availability under varying soil organic matter conditions using a biological P mining experimental framework. Measurements focused on whether enhanced soil organic matter improved P bioavailability through biological mechanisms.

Theme
Farming systems, soils & land use
Subject
Soil fertility & nutrient management
Study type
Research
Study design
Field trial
Source type
Peer-reviewed study
Status
Published
Geography
United Kingdom
System type
Laboratory / in vitro
DOI
10.1016/j.geoderma.2022.115965
Catalogue ID
BFmovi1txm-7tl16q

Topic tags

Pulse AI · ask about this record

Dig deeper with Pulse AI.

Pulse AI has read the whole catalogue. Ask about this record, its theme, or how the findings apply to UK farming and policy — every answer cites the underlying studies.