Soil Chemical Properties in Forest Tree Nurseries

Production of quality conifer seedlings requires, among other factors, that nursery soil physical and chemical properties be maintained at adequate levels. This necessitates periodic soil analyses and appropriate amelioration when needed. Composted lime-treated horse manure was applied, as a source of organic matter, at the Saratoga Forest Tree Nursery. The application of this material to the loamy sand soil resulted in an undesirable increase in soil pH to above 7.0. Since 1974, periodic soil analyses of the seedbed production areas have been utilized to monitor soil properties. The effect of the single application of lime treated horse manure resulting in high soil pH is still evident in many blocks. Production and quality of conifer seedlings has been negatively affected as a result of applying this horse manure because the soil pH has remained near or above 7.0. Evaluation of the nutrient status at the nursery indicated that on average percentages and concentrations of O.M., N, K, and Mg were below the optimum required for quality conifer seedling production.