Dynamics of the mineralisation of nutrients in the decomposition of cotton crop residues

The aim of this work was to determine the concentrations of N, P, K, Ca, Mg and Na and the averages of remaining nutrients (%RN) during the decomposition of the cotton crop residues. The average of released nutrients during the first quarter was for N = 12.47%; P = 28.98%; Ca = 20.87%; Mg = 12.43%; K = 44.25% and Na = 54.30%. The release is coincident with the rate of decomposition of the cotton crop residues, being determined that at the end of the year the mineralization rate of the elements is faster for K > P > Na > N > Ca > Mg.