Vertical distribution of micronutrient cations in some soil series of northern Madhya Pradesh

The DTPA-extractable micronutrient cations (Zn, Cu, Fe and Mn) and their relationship with different soil properties were studied in twenty-four profiles of six established series (Madhaiyapura, Palri, Taton, Bhangarh, Richarikala and Bagwai) of northern Madhya Pradesh. Zinc, Fe and Mn contents, in general, decreased with depth but Cu content was maximum in the 15–60 cm layer and then decreased down the profiles in most of the soil series. These micronutrients showed positive relationship with organic carbon content but were inversely related with soil pH and CaCO₃ content. Step-down multiple regression equations were computed to predict the availability of micronutrients in these soils.