Soybean yield in response to application of phosphate rock associated with triple superphosphate

Abstract

Soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) crop started to be planted in the Brazilian Cerrado in the 1970's, and this region currently contributes with 57% of total soybean production in Brazil. Under natural conditions in this region, the soils present chemical limitations such as low pH, low Cation Exchange Capacity, low nutrient availability, and moreover, clayey soils have a high P fixation capacity mainly due to high contents of Fe/Al oxides. Since P is the most limiting nutrient is this region, a study was performed in the state of Maranhão, Brazil, in a Typic Hapludox, with clayey texture and low available P (extracted by resin). Treatments were defined to evaluate soybean response to broadcast Arad phosphate rock (PR) plus banded triple superphosphate (TSP) and to evaluate the soybean response to three proportions of PR and TSP. The experiment was established in October 2004 and was carried out for three consecutive crop years (2004/05 to 2006/07). The associated use of PR and TSP, in several situations, resulted in yields at least similar to that obtained with the use of the water soluble P source and, in some cases, even using lower P rates. Regarding the "mixtures", a linear response was observed when they were banded; however, when they were broadcasted, no increase in yield was observed above 50% of relative solubility. In conclusion, the association of sources differing in solubility may be a feasible agronomic option for P fertilizer management of soybeans.