Long-term effects of phosphorus fertilization of soil fertility
In order to reduce the leaching of P from agricultural soils to ground- and surfacewaters, the Netherlands have implemented regulations including P-limits reducing the amount of P applied on agricultural land. The P limits are based on equilibrium fertilization meaning that the maximum amount of P fertilization has been set equal to the P uptake by the crop. In long-term field trials, WUR studies whether equilibrium fertilization has any detoriating effects on soil fertility or crop production. The results are used to determine the amount of extra P fertilization needed to maintain soil fertility at an adaquate status and to determine the effectiveness of the implemented P limits in reducing P leaching from soil to groundwater. This project is financed by the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs.