The application of high levels of mineral fertilizers to Sod-Podzolic
soils in the Nonchernozem Zone without concurrent liming and manuring
promotes the peptization of the fine fraction of the soil, migration o
f the peptization products, mechanical disintegration of the fine silt
fractions, decomposition of mixed-layer minerals, and nonexchangeable
binding of potassium and ammonium ions from the fertilizer. The resul
t is an increase in the amounts of hydromica, kaolinite, and fine quar
tz in the plow layer. These irreversible alterations of the mineral co
mposition of the soil decrease its cation exchange capacity, disrupt i
ts structure, and prevent the development of strong organomineral comp
lexes.