N mineralization and nitrification potential of soil samples under lab conditions
Soil microcosms were established in the lab to determine N mineralization and nitrification potentials using soil subsamples collected in 2021. Soil subsamples (12.5 g dry soil equivalent) were placed into 120-ml amber jars capped with loose-fitting lids to ensure aerobic condition, and incubated at 25°C for 28 days. The soil moisture was maintained at 60% WHC (water holding capacity) by weighing twice per week and adding water as needed. At the end of the 28-d incubation, soil NH4+-N, and NO3-N concentrations were determined (Neill et al. 1997).