Surface application of gypsum in low acidic Oxisol under no-till cropping system

Abstract

The conditions in which a favorable response to a gypsum application can be expected on crop yields are not clear. A 3-year field trial was carried out to evaluate the effects of gypsum application on soil chemical attributes and nutrition and yield of corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) on a clayey Typic Hapludox of high fertility and low acidity under no-till in Guarapuava, Parana State, Brazil. Treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications, and consisted of gypsum application on the soil surface at 4, 8, and 12 Mg ha-1. Gypsum application increased the P content in the soil most superficial layer (0.0 - 0.1 m) and also the exchangeable Ca and S-SO4(2-) contents and the Ca/Mg ratio in the soil profile (0.0 - 0.6 m). Gypsum also caused leaching of Mg and K exchangeable in the soil. An increase in Ca concentrations in the corn leaves, and in P and S concentrations in the corn and soybean leaves occurred following the gypsum application. A yield response of corn to initial application of gypsum was found, but subsequent soybean crops did not respond. Gypsum application proved to be an effective practice to maximize no-till corn grain yield.