Comparison of Laboratory Methods and an In Situ Method for Estimating Nitrogen Mineralization in an Irrigated Silt‐Loam Soil

Abstract

Nitrogen (N) mineralization makes a considerable contribution to crop‐available N and is difficult to estimate. Reliable methods for measuring N mineralization are needed to produce data sets for developing N‐mineralization models, as a component in fertilizer recommendation algorithms, and to assess the effect of management practices on N mineralization. Numerous methods are available for estimating N mineralization. Laboratory methods are relatively easy but may not reflect conditions in the field, and field methods are usually labor‐intensive. A study was conducted to compare N‐mineralization estimates using anaerobic and aerobic laboratory methods and an in situ field method for the 0‐ to 15‐cm depth of a silt loam soil under irrigated corn (Zea mays L.). Mineralization estimates were also compared to N mineralization based on crop N content. Estimates of N mineralization were 101 kg ha−1 for the anaerobic laboratory method, 284 kg ha−1 for the aerobic laboratory method, and 134 kg ha−1 for the in situ field method. The in situ field method provided a reasonable estimate of N mineralization (0 to 15 cm) when compared to the estimate of mineralized N (root zone) based on crop N content (215 kg ha−1). The in situ field method can be used to measure N mineralization during the growing season and for comparing N mineralization among management practices.