Effects of Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide Levels upon Absorption of Potassium by Plants.

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Abstract
Corn and soybean plants in sand and solution cultures were treated with varying mixtures of N2, O2, and CO2, and the effects on growth, water and K absorption measured. K absorption was reduced with low 02, high CO2, or combinations of the two treatments. Five % CO2 was injurious with O2 at 1%, or less, but 20% CO2 was required for significant effects with 20% of 02. Results in cultures are compared with those in the field and the hypothesis advanced that soil gas analyses do not reflect the microaeration condition in the immediate root zone. Roots suffer from aeration effects in heavy soils because of slow gas exchange within the root zone, even when the analysis of the bulk air from the soil suggests satisfactory levels of O2 and CO2.