Variability in nutrient uptake based on analyses of plant samples from individual pots versus replicate composites

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Abstract
Total N, P, K, Ca, and Mg concentrations were determined in corn (Zea mays L.) and in southern pine seedlings (Pinus sp) grown in N, P, and K response experiments in greenhouse pots. Analyses of variance were made for dry matter yields, for nutrient concentrations, and for nutrient uptake determined for individual pots and calculated as percent nutrient of composite samples times individual pot dry matter. Compositing replicate plant samples gave satisfactory uptake values and usually gave similar or lower coefficients of variability (CV) than did uptake determined by individual pots. Amounts of each replicate sample composited should be in proportion to the respective dry matter yields to avoid bias in concentration and uptake values. Such compositing, together with accurate analytical methods, can greatly reduce the analytical work load and produce satisfactory research results.