Fertility studies of pasture soils in the wet tropical coast of Queensland. 4. Soils derived from metamorphic rocks

Abstract

Results of fifteen investigations into the fertility status of soils derived from metamorphic rocks in the wet tropical coast of Queensland are presented. Phosphorus deficiency is general. Molybdenum and potassium deficiencies are also widespread. Significant plant growth increases in seven of the nine general nutritional experiments were brought about by the calcium treatment. However, the involvement of additional calcium in molybdenum release and in alleviating aluminium toxicity appears more important than in correcting a calcium deficiency. There were also some positive responses to sulphur and negative ones to copper.