Trace Element Content in Soils with Nitrogen Fertilisation and Humic Acids Addition

Abstract

Application of mineral fertilisers can entail an increase in trace element content in the soil. In consequence, their elevated uptake by plants and transfer to further trophic chain links may occur. The aim of the research reported here was to determine the usefulness of the tested organic materials, such as humic acids, for reduction of the content of trace elements in two soils fertilised with excessive doses of nitrogen fertilisers. Soil type had a considerable effect on soil trace element content. The content of most trace elements (cadmium, lead, chromium, cobalt, nickel, manganese, and iron) was higher in loamy sand than in sand. Among the tested fertilisers, a higher content of most soil trace elements was found after the application of ammonium nitrate. Urea fertilisation led to a decrease in the content of cadmium, chromium, copper, and zinc in both soils; cobalt, manganese, and nickel in sand; and an increase in concentration of cobalt and manganese in loamy sand, relative to the subjects fertilised with ammonium nitrate. Urea ammonium nitrate solution (UAN) decreased the content of chromium, cadmium, copper, nickel, and zinc in both soils; lead in the sand; and cobalt in the loamy sand, while raising the content of lead in the loamy sand, relative to the subjects fertilised with ammonium nitrate. The impact of urea and UAN on the remaining trace element content in the soils was comparable to that effected by ammonium nitrate. The effect of humic acids on trace element content in the soil tended to be beneficial, as they reduced the soil concentrations of these elements compared to the control subject (without their application). However, it should be emphasised that their effect depended on nitrogen fertiliser form and soil type. Humic acids can effectively reduce the uptake of trace elements by some plant species.