In an attempt to make a universal extractant that could be used for any soil in the world, Dr. Mehlich developed the Mehlich-2 extractant which was used for about 2 years. The Mehlich-2 contained 4 different chemicals but the chloride in the extracta nt was causing laboratory instrument problems. Subsequently, Dr. Mehlich developed the Mehlich-3 extractant by changing the chemical composition of the Mehlich-2 extractant slightly to exclude the chloride component. In addition, he added a chelating ag ent to increase the amount of micronutrients extracted, particularly copper. The Mehlich-3 extractant was adopted in 1984 and is being used throughout the world. In the Southeast, the Mehlich-3 extractant is used by Virginia, Kentucky and North Carolina .
Back to the main page.