From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Clarence, NY

What is the meaning of the CEC calculation? how is it determined? Why is it important?

Thanks,
Jim

11/22/2008 8:47:15 AM

South East

http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/cropsystems/DC6437.html

read this , might help.

11/22/2008 8:58:06 AM

Ctpumpkin@optonline.net

That is a good link with lots of valid info.

The (very) simplified version might read:

CEC = Cation Exchange Capacity

The cation elements are Calcium, Magnesium & Potassium.

Consider the values on a soil test report as the "quantity" of plant necessary elements that are in the soil solution. CEC is the measure of the soil's willingness to release the elements to our plants.

11/22/2008 4:36:48 PM

Mill Bay, British Columbia

Here is a great link as well, just go to page 10 of the document on soil.

http://www.kmag.com/assets/pdf_files/efu/Soil_Defined.pdf

11/22/2008 5:31:18 PM

southwest MO

http://www.spectrumanalytic.com/support/library/ff/CEC_BpH_and_percent_sat.htm
Just in case you are not filled to the gills with CEC info.

11/23/2008 8:48:23 AM

Clarence, NY

OK - I'm good with the What & How questions originally posed. The "Why" it's important is still go me? Is there a specific CEC that's key for growing then next 1600+ or is this the anwswer that we're all looking to answer?

11/23/2008 8:59:06 AM

Ctpumpkin@optonline.net

I've had folks waste a lot of time trying to figure out their soil test report when they could have been out finding aged manure or compost for amending what they have. Adding organic matter is the only reasonable way to improve CEC & doing so will pay big dividends by helping you grow bigger pumpkins.

11/23/2008 12:18:47 PM

Clarence, NY

Now that makes perfect sense & knowing that I have done so just before the snow started falling makes me a whole lot better. Thanks...

11/23/2008 8:50:36 PM