Selected soil chemical properties in the campus of Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra

Abstract

DOI:10.15414/afz.2015.18.03.66–70

Received 29. June 2015 ǀ Accepted 10. August 2015 ǀ Available online 14. October 2015

Urbanized areas are distinguished by great heterogeneity of soil morphological, physical, chemical and biological properties. Hence, the aim of this study was to characterize selected chemical properties of urban soil in the park and garden of Slovak University of Agriculture (SUA) in Nitra with regard to different soil management. Soil properties of studied Fluvisol were investigated in three soil pits dug 100-400 meters from the left bank of the river Nitra. Obtained results showed, that carbonates content in studied profiles was in range of 0.25-0.8% and correspondent with increased pH values. Soil in SUA campus had high buffering capacity related to carbonates content, high to very high cation exchange capacity and high degree of base saturation. Concentrations of organic carbon(22.2 - 24.7 g kg^–1)in topsoil of studied Fluvisols were higher than reported average content in Fluvisols in Slovakia. It suggests that in SUA campus, the correct practices for organic matter maintaining and even increasing were followed.