Fertility Status of Organic Soils in Puerto Rico

Abstract

A general literature review on formation, subsidence, water table, and chemical properties of organic soils has been presented and discussed. Soil samples from a virgin peat soil of Puerto Rico were analyzed by rapid microchemical soil tests and, from them, the general fertility level of the area sampled was evaluated. The relation of the different soil types to the soil-test data has been presented. From the preceding investigation the following conclusions were drawn: 1. The virgin peat soils from Puerto Rico are low in phosphorus and potassium. 2. No significant correlation was found between manganese values by soil test and soil pH values. 3. A probable manganese deficiency is seen in spots where the pH of the soils is above 6.0, and the presence of free calcium carbonate has been detected. 4. A highly significant negative correlation was found for iron values by soil test and soil pH values. 5. A highly significant negative correlation was found for aluminum values by soil test and soil pH values. 6. In areas where the pH was lower than 6.0 the iron and aluminum values obtained are often high enough to render growth of crops unsatisfactory. 7. Salinity is not a problem in the area studied if correct soil-management practices are used.