Mineral losses during soil formation in granitic material

Abstract

The productivity of forest stands on four soils is related to the degree of weathering of the soils as measured by the ratio of free ferric iron to total iron for the entire profile. Losses of phosphorus, potassium, and soil bulk increase with the degree of weathering, which commences at a considerable depth. Most of the phosphorus and potassium is lost from the material before it comes within the reach of tree roots.