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Boosting soil carbon and nitrogen stocks by increasing soil test phosphorus
Andria Paula Lima1, Luke Gatiboni2, Dionata Filippi2
1Department of Soil Science, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
Journal of Environmental Quality
|February 4, 2026
Summary
Phosphorus fertilization significantly impacts soil carbon and nitrogen accumulation in long-term agricultural systems. Maintaining optimal phosphorus levels enhances soil fertility and agroecosystem resilience, with site-specific management crucial for maximizing benefits.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Soil Science
- Ecology
Background:
- The role of phosphorus (P) availability in regulating soil carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) accumulation is not fully understood.
- Long-term studies are essential to elucidate the complex interactions between nutrient management and soil organic matter dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of P fertilization on C and N storage, C:N ratio, humic matter, and C:clay ratio in long-term corn/soybean rotations.
- To determine the critical soil test phosphorus values (CSTVs) for optimizing C and N accumulation.
- To assess the impact of soil texture on P-mediated C and N dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Two long-term conservation tillage trials in North Carolina were utilized.
- Soil samples were analyzed across multiple depths (0-30 cm) for P, C, and N content.
- Linear-plateau models were employed to evaluate the relationship between soil test phosphorus (STP) and C/N stocks.
Main Results:
- P availability influenced C stocks at both sandy and clayey soil sites, with higher P content and CSTV observed in sandy soils.
- Critical soil test phosphorus values derived from C and N stocks strongly correlated with those from crop yield.
- Maintaining STP near CSTV increased C stocks by 2.1-2.7 Mg ha⁻¹ and N stocks by 0.2-0.3 Mg ha⁻¹.
- Sandy soils accumulated more C, while clayey soils showed greater C storage potential due to texture.
Conclusions:
- Phosphorus fertilization is a key factor in enhancing soil C and N sequestration in agricultural systems.
- Site-specific P management, considering soil texture and C stabilization capacity, is vital for optimizing soil fertility and agroecosystem resilience.
- The study provides valuable insights into P management strategies for sustainable agriculture.
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