Optimizing fertilizer nitrogen use efficiency by intensively managed spring wheat in humid regions: Effect of split application

Abstract

Velasco, J. L., Rozas, H. S., Echeverria, H. E. and Barbieri, P. A. 2012. Optimizing fertilizer nitrogen use efficiency by intensively managed spring wheat in humid regions: Effect of split application. Can. J. Plant Sci. 92: 847-856. Efficient N fertilizer management is critical for the economical production of wheat and the long-term protection of the environment. Six experiments were conducted at three locations in the south-east of the province of Buenos Aires (SE), Argentina, during a 4-yr period, on Typic Argiudoll and Petrocalcic Paleudoll. The study was designed to evaluate the effects of splitting nitrogen (N) fertilizer on N use efficiency (NUE) in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Rates of 0 to 150 kg N ha-1 were used, applied at tillering (Z24) or split between Z24 and flag leaf (Z39). The experimental design was a randomized complete block with three replications. Grain yield ranged from 3522 to 8185 kg ha-1, according to N availability and application time. In the experiments without water stres...