Water-soluble organic carbon and nitrogen in Chinese arable soils and their role in regulating C and N mineralization

DAAD

From 12/2005 to 12/2007

Principal Investigator: Karsten Kalbitz

Many Chinese soils are characterized by long-term history in organic fertilization. In these soils water-soluble organic C and N should be particularly important for regulating nutrient cycles. In this project, we will quantify the pool size of water-soluble organic C and N and evaluate their role in regulating C and N mineralization in soils. Our results will improve the management of organic and mineral fertilizers aiming to minimize leaching losses of nitrogen and CO2 evolution from the soils but reaching high yields as well.