Pedochemical Drivers of Boron Distribution in Saline and Alkaline Agricultural Soil Profiles

Year 2026, Volume: 16 Issue: 1, 386 - 395, 01.03.2026

Fatih Gökmen

https://doi.org/10.21597/jist.1808515

https://izlik.org/JA39ZG62TL

Abstract

This study seeks to examine the vertical distribution of boron (B) concentration throughout the soil profile and its correlation with descriptive pedochemical properties in soil samples from the eastern Iğdır Plain. Soil samples were collected from 17 distinct locations at five depth intervals (0-20, 20-40, 40-60, 60-80, and 80-100 cm) and examined for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), calcium carbonate equivalent (CCE), organic matter (OM), and soil textural fractions (sand, clay, silt). The findings indicated that B concentration was elevated, particularly in the surface layers, and diminished markedly with greater depth. The maximum B concentration of 75.6 mg/kg was recorded at the surface, whereas the minimum value of 2.0 mg/kg was detected in the deeper layers. This suggests that B accumulation is confined to the surface layer due to specific surface soil properties, limited rainfall, and persistent evaporation. Correlation analyses revealed significant negative correlations between B and sand (r= -0.57**), as well as positive correlations with clay (r= 0.42**) and CCE (r= 0.76**). Organic matter content was higher in the surface layers and decreased with depth, which contributed to B retention. The pH remained alkaline across the profile, restricting B solubility and adsorption. Boron mobility within the soil profile is closely associated with both physical (texture) and chemical properties (pH, CCE, EC, and OM). Consequently, both the surface and the entire soil profile must be considered in B management strategies. This research offers valuable data to inform region-specific fertilization practices, sustainable soil management, and land reclamation strategies.

Keywords

Boron , Pedochemical properties , Micronutrient management

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