Theses and Dissertations Collection

Cadmium accumulation in wheat threatens human health. Phosphorus fertilization management may influence cadmium uptake. Extensive research has investigated the effects of phosphorus application in cadmium-contaminated soils, but none have focused on Northern Idaho’s natural soils. To investigate the effects of phosphorus application rate on cadmium accumulation, and on competition between cadmium and zinc for uptake, we conducted a greenhouse experiment applying varying phosphorus rates to spring wheat grown in natural soil. Additionally, relationships in grain and soil metal concentrations from across Idaho were analyzed using principal components analysis and regression modeling. Quintupling the recommended phosphorus rate resulted in a statistically insignificant increase in grain cadmium and did not induce antagonism between zinc and cadmium, indicating that phosphorus management may not be a viable strategy for controlling cadmium uptake in local soils.