Levels Of Mineral Fertilization Research Articles

Does the application of mineral and organic fertilizer affect cassava tuber quality? An evidence from Zambia

Cassava is cheap enough to be grown by both the poor and rich farmers in Africa and elsewhere. It is the second most important food security crop in Zambia, next to maize. However, the productivity is very low compared to the yield potential of the crop. To increase yield, extension workers advise farmers to apply fertilizer, but the effect of fertilizer application on cassava tuber quality, mainly to Hydrogen Cyanide (HCN) is not known. This research aimed at understanding the effect of application of both organic and inorganic fertilizer on cassava tuber quality. Four levels of organic fertilizer (0, 1.4, 2.8, and 4.2 t/ha) of chicken manure and four levels of mineral fertilizer (0, 50-11-41.5, 100-22-83, and 150-33-124.5 kg/ha) N–P–K were factorially combined in RCBD and set in two agroecologies of Zambia. The result showed that moisture and sugar content of cassava tubers declined following an increased application of mineral fertilizer, with an average content of 9.21% and 4.22%, respectively. However, the decline in sugar and moisture was not statistically significant between the treatments. Conversely, no clear trend in HCN content was observed following the application of mineral fertilizer. Similarly, no clear trend was observed with the application of organic fertilizer for all the assessed cassava qualities. The application of mineral and organic fertilizer also showed an additive effect – no interaction between the two fertilizer types. Therefore, we conclude that neither organic nor mineral fertilizer application affects cassava tuber quality, especially the sugar and HCN content. Based on the present results, it is advisable to repeat the experiment and see the effect on other varieties to fully understand the effect of cassava fertilization on tuber quality in the Zambian conditions. • Low cassava yields necessitated fertilizer application in Zambia. • However, farmers question quality of fertilized cassava mainly for its cyanide content. • We evaluated the effect of organic and mineral fertilizer application on cassava quality. • Neither organic nor mineral fertilizer application affected cassava tuber quality.

Effects of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and different fertilizer combinations on yield and quality properties in cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis)

Purpose: This study was carried out to determine the influence of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) (Paenibacillus polymyxa RC14, Bacillus subtilis RC63 and Pseudomonas fluorescens RC77), organic chicken manure (OCM) (4000 kg/da), 3 levels of mineral fertilizer [(NPK1 (80 kg/ha N+50 kg/ha P+80 kg/ha K), NPK2 (160 kg/ha N+75 kg/ha P+160 kg/ha K) and NPK3 (200 kg/ha N+100 kg/ha P+200 kg/ha K)] and combination of these applications on growth, yield and quality of cauliflower under field conditions. Materials and Methods: Field experiments were conducted in randomized complete block design with four replications. Treatments were 1. Control (No Fertilizer Application; 0 kg /ha NPK), 2. NPK1 (80-50-80 kg / ha NPK), 3. NPK2 (160-75-160 kg /ha NPK), 4. NPK3 (200-100-200 kg /ha NPK), 5. PGPR, 6. Organic Chicken Manure (OCM), 7. PGPR + OCM, 8. NPK1+PGPR, 9. NPK2+PGPR, 10. NPK3+PGPR, 11. NPK1+ OCM, 12. NPK2+ OCM, 13. NPK3+ OCM, 14. NPK1+PGPR+ OCM, 15. NPK2+PGPR+ OCM, 16. NPK3+PGPR+ OCMResults: The highest curd weight and marketable yield were observed in NPK2+ OCM in 2014 while in NPK1+PGPR+OCM and NPK2+PGPR+OCM in 2015. NPK2+ OCM elevated the curd weight and marketable yield by 300% compared to the control in 2014. NPK1+PGPR+OCM increased the curd weight and marketable yield by 200% compared to the control in 2015. The highest TSS was observed in the control in 2014 whereas NPK1+PGPR+OCM gave the highest value. NPK treatments elevated the NO3 content of cauliflower curds. In 2014 the highest ascorbic acid content was determined in PGPR while the control gave the highest content in 2015. The highest oxalic acid contents were observed in NPK treatments. Furthermore, PGPR and OCM treatments generally reduced the oxalic acid contents of the cauliflower. Conclusion: NPK with OCM and PGPR applications could be advisable for the yield and quality parameters of cauliflower. Furthermore, the PGPRxOCM combination was advisable for efficiently using in organic agricultural production.

Assessment of the impact of innovative fertilization methods compared to traditional fertilization in the cultivation of highbush blueberry.

The aim of the research was to evaluate fertilization technologies for the indicators of the quality and quantity of highbush blueberry yield. In the experiment, a similar level of mineral fertilization was used in all treatments. The experiment was to show the differences between fertilization with biostimulation and without biostimulation. The research was carried out in two seasons (2019–2020) on ´Bluecropˋ shrubs growing in the Blueberry Experimental Field in central Poland (51° 55’42.7 "N 20° 59’28.7" E). Shrubs grow at a distance of 1 x 3 m. Plants are rejuvenated every year in spring and irrigated by drip. The experiment was carried out in a random block design (4 fertilizer treatments x 5 replications x 6 bushes). The experiment assessed the effect of fertilization on yield, berry mass, fruit setting, leaf surface and physicochemical parameters of fruit. Based on the conducted research, it was proved that the applied fertilization technologies had a significant impact on the size and quality of the yield of “Bluecrop” highbush blueberry. Particularly noteworthy is the fertilization technology with biostimulation (treatment T4), which has a positive effect on the yield, fruit mass, percentage of setting and firmness of the berries. Analysis of the issue in the light of the results of the conducted research shows that the use of biostimulated products has an important impact on the intensification of production while maintaining good quality of fruits. Through research, the positive effect of fertilization programs with biostimulation (treatment T4) on the most important production parameters of blueberry fruit from the producer’s point of view has been proven.

Inoculum Concentration and Mineral Fertilization: Effects on the Endophytic Microbiome of Soybean.

Soybean crops are of great economic importance worldwide and in Brazil. This crop is a commodity that provides large amounts of financial resources to the country. Soybean productivity is influenced by several biotic and abiotic factors, and most of these factors cannot be controlled by agricultural practices. Due to the soybean cultivars used and their required yields, the soybean crop, similar to other agriculturally important crops, requires large amounts of mineral fertilizers. There are several microorganisms that colonize soybean plant roots without causing symptoms or damage. These microorganisms that colonize plant tissues are called endophytes and can often promote plant growth and development. Little is known about the factors that influence endophyticism. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether Bacillus subtilis inoculant concentrations and levels of mineral fertilization recommended for the crop have any influence on the endophytic microbiome of soybean plant roots. The results show that B. subtilis inoculations did not affect the endophytic community of the roots; however, the evaluation of the microbial community structure according to the alpha diversity metrics observed richness, Chao1 index, Shannon index and Simpson index showed that microbial diversity of endophytes was higher at fertilization levels of 50 and 100%, with a significant difference (p < 0.05) between 0 and 50% and 0 and 100% fertilization.

Fertilization management with sewage sludge sustains Eucalyptus productivity in Cerrado infertile soil

Sewage sludge (SS) application to Eucalyptus urograndis plantations can result in wood yields rivalling those achieved when mineral fertilizers are used. While climatic conditions determine Eucalyptus growth and wood production, the use of fertilizers containing boron (B) can mitigate the impact of drought on Eucalyptus growth. We hypothesized that SS application supplemented with P and B would improve growth and wood production of Eucalyptus planted in the Cerrado region of Brazil. We evaluated wood production and the influence of two years of meteorological seasonality on trunk cross-sectional area (TCSA) growth of Eucalyptus planted on an infertile Oxisol treated with SS. The experiment was conducted on a 54-month-old Eucalyptus urograndis plantation. The treatments were: i) control; ii) two levels of mineral fertilization; iii) seven SS treatments with or without P and/or B. SS application, based on tree N requirement, supplemented with P, resulted in wood production like those produced under mineral fertilization. Within climate variables, rainfall, potential evapotranspiration, and minimum air temperature had the largest influence on Eucalyptus TCSA growth. There was lower accumulated TCSA growth in the cold and dry winter season compared to the hot and rainy summer. However, SS application supplemented with B promoted TCSA growth, enhancing Eucalyptus tolerance to drought periods. In summary, SS supplemented with P and B is a valuable option as an organomineral fertilization management in Eucalyptus plantations, as it improved trunk growth during drought periods as well as wood volume production.

The Interaction Effect between Mycorrhiza (Glomus Mosseae), Organic and Mineral Fertilizers on Growth, Yield of Cauliflower (Brassica Oleracea) and Some Desert Soil Characteristics

The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of adding Mycorrhiza, local organic fertilizer, and biochar (seek) singly or in combination on some properties of desert soils from the Karbala governorate. Coupled with the growth and yield of cauliflower (Brassica Oleracea) under different levels of mineral fertilization. A Biological experiment was carried out to achieve the objectives of the study by placing 20 kg of desert soil that was transported from the Holy Karbala Governorate from the site of Imam Hussein Agricultural City. This soil was placed in environmentally friendly bags made of linen cloth 50 cm in diameter and 35 cm in height. The biological experiment included three factors: organic fertilizer (local organic fertilizer, biochar (Seek) and without adding organic fertilizer) and biofertilizer (inoculation with mycorrhiza and without mycorrhiza). On the other hand, the third factor represents mineral fertilizer addition at three levels (100%, 50%, and 0 %) of the fertilizer recommendation for cauliflower. Generally, 16 g of biochar (Seek) for every 20 kg of soil was added by mixing to 15 cm of depth from the soil surface, while 500 g of local organic fertilizer was added in the same way. The results showed the superiority of adding Mycorrhiza in the availability of nitrogen and phosphorous in the soil after planting. It gives values of 92.00 mg N kg-1 soil and 9.18 mg p kg-1 soil in the inoculated soil compared to their concentration in the uninoculated soil, which amounted to 87.69 mg N kg-1 and 8.65 mg p kg-1 soil nitrogen and phosphorous, respectively. The results analysis showed also the superiority of adding a mixture of local organic fertilizer with biochar (Seek) in increasing the nitrogen availability in the soil. It gave 91.72 mg N kg-1 of soil compared to the treatment of adding seek alone and the control treatment, which gave values of 88.94 and 87.28 mg N kg -1soil, respectively.The study showed the positive and significant resultsof the triple interaction between the addition of mycorrhiza and the combination of organic fertilizer with the addition of 100% of the mineral fertilizer recommendation for cauliflower in increasing the concentration of available nitrogen in the soil, as it gave 101.00 mg N kg-1 soil compared to the control treatment, which gave 67.67 mg N kg-1soil. The addition of mycorrhiza contributed to an increase in the weights and curd diameters, the leaves dry weight and gave values of 711.1 g, 15.44 cm, 36.33 g compared to the control treatment for the same traits, which amounted to 562.4 g, 14.69 cm, and 27.08 g, respectively. Besides, the 100% addition of the recommendation resulted in higher values for leaves, curd diameters, and leaf dry weight to reach 697.9 g and 15.71 g respectively compared to not adding mineral fertilizer which gave values of 581.2 g, 14.08 cm, and 28.96 g respectively. Finally, the study findings showed the significant effect of adding combined bio-organic fertilizer in increasing the concentration of organic matter in the soil after planting, which amounted to 7.14 and 7.63 g.kg-1, compared to the control treatment, which gave 6.91 and 6.31 g. kg-1, respectively.

Nutrient Balance of Phosphorus in Long-Term Field Experiment

Phosphorus is a major nutrient for plants and the determination of available phosphorus in soil is necessary for agricultural practices. Phosphorus balance in soil was assessed in the long-term stationary experiment at Hněvčeves from 1980 to 2015. The results indicate that the phosphorus balance was significantly influenced by the doses of phosphorus in mineral fertilization and farmyard manure. The most well balanced balance of phosphorus in soil was achieved at the plots with low doses of phosphorus applied in mineral fertilization and farmyard manure. Negative phosphorus balance was found out in the combination without the dose of phosphorus in both fertilizers. On the contrary, phosphorus surplus was indicate in the combination with very high level of phosphorus dose in mineral fertilization and medium level of phosphorus dose in farmyard manure or in the combination with medium level of phosphorus in mineral fertilization and very high level of phosphorus in farmyard manure. Very high positive correlation of phosphorus contents were found in plants to yield. Data about phosphorus balance can help to modify phosphorus fertilization doses for subsequent crops and optimize production inputs.

Вплив мінеральних добрив та біопрепарату на ріст та розвиток рослин сої

The soybean (Glycine max) is one of the most important food plants of the world, and seems to be growing in importance. It is an annual crop, fairly easy to grow, that produces more protein and oil per unit of land than almost any other crop. It is a versatile food plant that, used in its various forms, is capable of supplying most nutrients. It can substitute for meat and to some extent for milk. It is a crop capable of reducing protein malnutrition. In addition, soybeans are a source of high value animal feed. Nevertheless, the soybean is adapted primarily to the Temperate Zone. Each improved variety has an adaptation determined in large part by latitude. Soybean requires careful home processing to bring out its best qualities, and if not well prepared, it has an off-flavor that is seldom appreciated Soybeans need to be inoculated with a particular strain of Rhizobium fungus before planting. This fungus fixes nitrogen (i. e. takes elemental nitrogen from the air and adds it to the soil in a form that the soybean plant can use). However, if soybeans are planted in a field that contained soybeans as a previous crop, they may not require inoculation because the Rhizobium will still be in the soil. If soybeans are not grown in association with Rhizobium, they will grow more slowly, require nitrogen fertilizer, and yield less. Rhizobium inoculum must be fresh (viable) and is usually purchased with the seed. If Rhizobium inoculum is not available in a particular area, and soybeans are not now being grown, it may be difficult to produce this crop. Soybeans need fertilizer, including both the macronutrients phosphorous and potassium (P and K) and sometimes micronutrients. Nitrogen is not required if soybeans are properly inoculated. Soybeans need rather large amounts of phosphorous, calcium, magnesium, and sulfur. Minor elements are sometimes required. Soybeans cannot be recommended for unfertilized soils. For optimum soybean yield, it is necessary to use both biological N2-fixation and nitrogen uptake by soybean roots. Nitrogen fertilizer applied to soybean is based on the plant nitrogen needs during seedling development prior to nodule formation that is crucial to the growth and development of soybean As with all crops, soybean yield is the result of the net accumulation of organic compounds assimilated through photosynthesis. Research on soybean photosynthesis conducted during the 1950’s and 1960’s found that several cultivars grown at that time became light saturated. However, much of those data were collected from plants grown in a greenhouse or other artificial environment. Much of the information on the response of soybean photosynthesis to changing light levels however is dated, having been published prior to 1985, with cultivars that are no longer in production, using less portable and sophisticated instrumentation than is now available. In the article are presented results of researching peculiarities of growth development and formation of soybean photosynthetic productivity depending on weather conditions, level of mineral fertilization and different application methods of biological product on the chelate form under conditions of the Right-bank Forest-Steppe. It is established that a systematic approach to soybean nutrition, namely its cultivation on the background of optimal doses of mineral fertilizers N30P45K45 and the use of biological product Organic-Balance for seed treatment in combination with foliar feeding creates the best conditions for growth, development and preservation of maximum plants full ripeness, which is the basis for obtaining high grain yields.

Influence of variety, organic and mineral fertilization on the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of cucumbers crop (Cucumis sativus L.)

The experiment was carried out at the Agricultural Research Station of the College of Agriculture and the Marshlands / University of Thi-Qar, located in Al- Mustufawia for the agricultural season (2019-2020). The study was the effect of cultivar and organic and mineral fertilization on the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of cucumber crops grown in greenhouses, and applied according to the factorial experiments inside the split plots, using the complete randomized sectors with three replications. The factors of research were: two cultivars (Datis and Sakata) occupied the main plots, three levels of organic fertilization occupied the secondary plots which included control treatment O1, cow manure O2(2.457 tons of greenhouse-1) and poultry manure O3(3.713 tons of greenhouse-1) and the third factor was four levels of mineral fertilization (NPK) including control treatment M1, M2 (2.250 kg. dunam-1), M3 (3.350 kg. dunam-1), and M4 (4.450 kg. dunam-1) which occupied the sub-plots. The results showed that Datis cultivar significantly outperformed Sakata cultivar in yield per plant, total yield, leaf content of nitrogen and phosphorus, and fruit content of carbohydrates, reaching (1.402 kg. plant-1, 24.24 tons .greenhoues-1, 2.2517%, 0.4069%, 1.2876%) respectively. On the other hand, the treatment of organic fertilizer O3 recorded a significant effect in the following crop traits such as leaf area, total yield, leaf content of nitrogen and phosphorus, and fruit content of carbohydrate, reaching (178.0 cm2, 24.36 tons. greenhouse-1, 2.5017%, 0.4608%, 1.3561%). Respectively compared to other treatments, total yield, leaf content of nitrogen and phosphorus, reaching (180.1 cm2, 25.88 t. greenhoues-1, and 2.3478%, and 0.4561%) to other treatments. The treatment M2 significantly outperformed in yield per plant (1.682) kg. plant-1 and treatment M3 significantly exceeded the fruit's carbohydrate content, reaching (1.2930%). All the combinations among this study's treatments were compared to meet their significant effecting on all traits.

The Effect of The Dates of Application of Biohealth Fertilizer and Levels of Mineral Fertilization on The Yield and Components of The Legume Crop (Vicia Faba L.)

A field experiment was conducted during the winter semester 2020-2021 in Wasit Governorate - University of Wasit - College of Agriculture, Iraq. In loamy sandy soils to study the effect of dates application for Biohealth biological fertilizer in (growth stage, elongation stage and growth and elongation stage) + with (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%) from the mineral fertilizer recommendation for some plant traits in Broad bean (Vicia Faba L.). The experiment was Indicated according to a split-plots system using a randomized complete block design by three replications. A results of the study showed significant superiority in adding biological fertilizer in growth and elongation stage with highest mean of the yield and its components, Amount to (plant pods number 15.45 pod plant-1 and the number of seeds per pods 5.02 seed pod-1 and 100 seed weights 119.17 g and green pods yield 14.29 t ha-1 and seed yield 4.45 t ha-1 and biological yield 11.00 t ha-1). It also significantly outpered the addition of biological fertilizer + with 75% of the recommendation for mineral fertilizer with highest mean of yield and its components, Amount to (plant pods number17.75 pod plant-1 and number of seeds per pods 5.71 seed pod-1 and 100 seed weights 122.72 g and green pods yield 16.21 t ha-1 and seed yield 4.72 t ha-1 and biological yield 11.57 t ha-1). The interactions showed a significant effect on yield characteristics and its studied components, as the interaction treatment exceeded date of adding biological fertilizer + with 75% of fertilizer recommendation at growth and elongation stage highest mean of studied characteristics.

Impact of Subsurface Application of Compound Mineral Fertilizer on Soil Enzymatic Activity under Reduced Tillage

Soil biochemical properties shaping soil fertility and agro-ecosystem productivity depend on the reduced tillage system and the dose and method of application of fertilizer; therefore, the research hypothesis put forward proposes that under reduced tillage system conditions, the subsurface application of a multi-component mineral fertilizer would increase soil enzymatic activity, thus favourably influencing the biodiversity of the soil environment. The objective of the three-year study was to evaluate the impact of subsurface application of varying mineral fertilizer rates on soil enzymatic activity under reduced tillage system conditions in soybean, winter wheat and maize rotations. The field experiment was set up as a split-plot design in four replicates. The first experimental factor included two methods of mineral fertilization application: fertilizer broadcast over the soil surface (S); fertilizer applied deep (subsurface placed) using a specially designed cultivator (Sub-S). The other factor was the rates of the mineral fertilizer (NPKS): 85 kg∙ha−1 (F85) and 170 kg∙ha−1 (F170). The method of application and rate of mineral fertilizer did not have a significant effect on the organic carbon and total nitrogen content in the soil of the plots with all rotational crops. Subsurface application of fertilizer significantly increased available phosphorus content in soil under soybean and winter wheat crops; however, it significantly decreased soil pHKCl values within sites with all crops in the rotation compared to surface application. At the same time, deep application of mineral fertilizer significantly stimulated dehydrogenase activity in the soil under the winter wheat crops and acid phosphatase activity in the soil under all rotation crops. The higher level of mineral fertilization contributed to reduction of soil pHKCl under winter wheat and maize, and promoted an increase in the soil P content. Additionally, significant increases of dehydrogenases and urease activity in the soil under winter wheat and maize crops, alkaline phosphatase activity in the soil under all the studied crops, and acid phosphatase activity in the soil under the soybean crops were found, compared to mineral fertilizer in the amount of 85 kg NPKS∙ha−1. The results of the present study have demonstrated a positive effect of subsurface application of compound mineral fertilizer on the soil biochemical parameters in reduced tillage. This may be a recommendation for the subsurface use of multicomponent mineral fertilizers in sustainable agriculture. However, a full objective characterization of the soil environment processes induced by in-depth application of mineral fertilizer in reduced tillage requires long-term monitoring.

ECONOMIC EVALUATION OF SPRING WHEAT PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY WITH DIFFERENT INTENSITY LEVELS

The aim of the study was to compare the productive and economic effects of different production intensities of spring wheat. The study was based on the results of a two-year (2015-2016) field study, conducted at the Agricultural Experimental Station in Osiny, belonging to the Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation in Pulawy. Spring wheat cultivars (Arabella and KWS Torridon) were grown using intensive and integrated technologies. The technologies studied differed in the level of mineral fertilization and chemical plant protection. The cultivation of spring wheat of the KWS Torridon cultivar according to intensive technology, as compared with cultivation under conditions of integrated technology, resulted in a significant increase in grain yield by 10.6%, respectively. On the other hand, no effect of production technology was found on the yield of the Arabella cultivar. The research showed that the technology intensity level, determined by inputs of production means, determined the structure of direct costs and profitability of spring wheat cultivars. The compared technologies ensured the profitability of spring wheat grain production. The most advantageous index of direct profitability was recorded for the Arabella cultivar grown under integrated technology.

EVALUATION EFFECT OF APPLICATION METHODS OF DIFFERENT SOURCES OF HUMIC SUBSTANCES ON POTATOES PLANT GROWTH, PRODUCTIVITY AND QUALITY IN NEWLY RECLAIMED SANDY SOIL UNDER DIFFERENT LEVELS OF MINERAL FERTILIZERS

The present work was conducted to: evaluate the effect of application methods of CT, HA and FA individually or in combination without and with recommended mineral fertilizers doses (RMFD) (50 and 100%), on potato growth and their yields. To achieve these objectives, a field experiment during winter seasons of 2019 was conducted at El Nagah Village, El-Tahrir Region, El Beheira Governorate, Egypt (Latitude 30o.40´N- Longitude 30o.33´E) (represented newly reclaimed sandy soil). The layout of the experiment was a split- plot design, with the main plots arranged in a randomized complete blocks design with three replicates. Potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L) plants cultivar Spunta, as a tuber crop. Three application methods of the used organic amendments were applying. These methods were: soil application (through drip irrigation Drip), foliar spray Spray and the alternative between them Spray/Drip. The application methods of Spray/Drip was carried out by applying half amount of each organic amendments applying as soil application and the other 50% was applied as foliar spray). This study including the treatments of control (without any applications of organic amendments treatment). The used CT was added at a rate of 200 L fed-1. FA and HA were added at a rate of 6 and 10 Kg fed-1. respectively. The used mineral fertilizers (NPK) were applied at two rates (50 and 100% of recommended dose for the potato plants. After 40 and 65 days from sowing, dry matter yields (DMY) of the growing plants (shoots) and at harvesting, tuber yield per fed. feddan=4200 m2), as well as quality traits their elemental composition, mainly contents of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium were determined. The obtained results indicated that, DMY (shoots and tuber) of potato plants received the combined application of CT+ HA+ FA were the highest values under all application methods compared to their individual application, under both levels of mineral fertilization, at 40 and 65 days after sowing for shoots as well as at harvesting for tubers. The maximum values of N, P and K contents of potato shoot at 40 and 65 days after sowing and in tubers were obtained from double application (Spraying/Drip (method treatments of the in-combination treatments of organic amendments under both levels of recommended mineral fertilization. Accordingly, the duple application Spray/Drip methods of organic amendments, considered a more beneficial application methods in the cultivation of potato plants (Spunta cultivar) in newly reclaimed sandy soils due to it resulted in a high tuber yield, quality and reducing the environmental pollution as a result from reducing the additions of the mineral fertilizer with the in combination organic amendments.

EVALUATION OF THE COMBINATION OF BACTERIAL BIOFERTILIZER AND VERMICOMPOST IN THE AVAILABILITY OF N, P, K AND SOME OF PLANT PARAMETERS OF BEANS (PHASEOLUS VULGARIS L.)

A field experiment was carried out at the Agricultural Research and Experiments (station A), which belong to the college of Agricultural Engineering Sciences/University of Baghdad with a silty loam soil by using Randomized Block Design with three replicates to evaluate the effect of using a combination of bacterial biofertilizer consist of Bacillus megaterium , Bacillus mucilagenosus and Rhizobium phaseoli with two levels of vermicompost (0 and 10 mcgh-1) on plant growth parameters of Green Beans and its yield and availability of N,P and K in soil under two levels of mineral fertilization (0% and 50%) of fertilizer recommendation in addition to using the full fertilizer recommendation treatment(100%) as a second control treatment. The results showed the significant superiority of the bacterial combination biofertilizer with (10 mcgh-1 ) vermicompost and 50% of mineral fertilizer compared with the treatment of full fertilizer recommendation in most of the growth and yield parameters of green beans, as the number of pods, nodules number and total yield were 150.00 plant pod-1 ,8.33 plant node-1and 71.48 mcg h-1respectively,whereas the soil content of a available NPK was 85.00,14.00 and 198.00 mcgh-1 in the same treatment above respectively in compare with the control(without any addition) treatment which its availability of NPK was (29.00,4.07 ,89.00)mgkg-1respectively.

EFFECT OF FERTILIZATION AND PLANT SPACING ON YIELD AND CONTENT OF FLAVONOIDS IN FIREWEED HERB (Epilobii herba)

Fireweed (Epilobium angustifolium L.) is a quite common species in our country. However, in order to obtain larger quantities of high quality E. angustifolia herb, it is necessary to introduce it into cultivation. The study covered four-year field experiment (2013–2016). The aim of the study was to investigate the fireweed reaction to the impact of various levels of mineral fertilization and spacing. It has been shown that the increased amount of fertilizer components at the level of 60 N, 70 P2O5 and 100 K2O kg · ha–1 stimulated vegetative growth and had a positive effect on yielding. The highest biological efficiency of the plantation was found at the population density resulting from 45 × 30 cm spacing. Increasing the dose of mineral fertilization and increasing the plant spacing did not result in statistically proven impact on the quality of the raw material (flavonoid content).

Organic Waste-Based Fertilizer in Hydroponics Increases Tomato Fruit Size but Reduces Fruit Quality.

In regions with intensive agricultural production, large amounts of organic waste are produced by livestock animals. Liquid digestate from manure-based biogas production could potentially serve as fertilizer if integrated with closed horticultural irrigation systems. The aim of this experiment was to investigate how fertilizer based on liquid biogas by-products of pig manure digestion can affect the growth and production of tomato plants. Integration of a nitrification bioreactor presumes a significantly lower concentration of nutrient solutions and a higher level of oxygenation than classical mineral cultivation. Therefore, additional controls were included. We compared plant growth and fruit quality traits of tomato plants grown in a hydroponic solution with organic fertilizer with two levels of mineral fertilizer. The tomatoes grown with organic waste-based liquid fertilizer showed reduced growth rates but increased mean fruit size, resulting in no significant change in total yield compared with high-mineral cultivation. The growth rate was similarly reduced in plants cultivated with low-mineral fertilizer. Plants cultivated with organic waste-based fertilizer had high Cl− concentration in xylem sap, leaves, and, ultimately, fruits. The leaves of plants cultivated with organic waste-based fertilizer contained higher concentrations of starch and soluble carbohydrate and low concentrations of phosphorous (P) and sulfur (S). The plants grown with organic waste-based or low-mineral medium showed significantly poorer fruit quality than the plants cultivated with the high-mineral solution. The low-mineral treatment increased xylem sap contribution to fruit weight because of higher root power. The organic waste-based fertilization did not change the root power but increased fruit size. In conclusion, organic waste-based cultivation is a possible solution for sustainable plant production in greenhouses. However, additional adjustment of nutrient supply is required to improve fruit quality.

RESPONSE OF THREE VARIETIES OF BROAD BEAN (Vicia faba L.) TO NP MINERAL FERTILIZER

To solve the problem of the shortage broad bean crop production in the governorate of Nineveh. The study was carried out between the Horticulture Department, College of Agriculture and forestry, University of Mosul, and the Director of Nineveh Agriculture, to know the effect of two factors: first factor was three varieties of broad beans (local, Spanish and Italian) ,the second factor was three levels of mineral fertilizer NP (0. 300 and 400 kg. ha-1) . The experiment consist of nine treatments. It designed according to Randomized Complete Block Design with Split-plot arrangement with three replicates. Analysis of variance carried out according to Duncan's multiple range test at 0.05. Results showed the Spanish variety gave significant superiority in the number of pods, seeds, and seed yields compared to the other varieties except for the number of pods that did not differ significantly with the local variety. 300 and 400 kg. ha-1 levels of mineral fertilizer caused a significant increase in all studied parametersbut there was no significant effect between 300 kg. ha-1 and control. Most effects of interaction treatments showed similar effects as a single factor for every mentioned characters RESPONSE OF THREE VARIETIES OF BROAD BEAN (Vicia faba L.) TO NP MINERAL FERTILIZER

Mechanisms Underlying Nutrient Interaction of Compost and Mineral Fertilizer Application in Maize (Zea mays L.) Cropping System in Ghana

Mechanisms underlying interactive effects of nutrient inputs on crop yields are poorly understood especially throughout sub-Saharan Africa. This research thus sought to evaluate the possible mechanisms causing the interaction effects from compost and mineral fertilizer and quantify the relative contribution(s) of the mechanisms to added benefits in grain yield. The research involved a 3-year field experiment followed by a greenhouse incubation study. Both field and incubation experiments were 5 × 5 factorial arranged in Randomized Complete Block Design and Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications, respectively. The factors considered were five levels of mineral fertilizer (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100% of 90:60:70 kg ha−1 N:P2O5:K2O) and compost (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100% of 5 Mg ha−1 compost). The mechanisms evaluated were nutrient synchrony, priming, general soil fertility improvement (GFI), and balanced ratio of nutrients. The conjoint application of compost and mineral fertilizer significantly (p ≤ 0.05) influenced grain yields of maize, with 50%RRMF + 100%RRCo producing the highest average grain yields in 2015 and 2017 with relative average grain yield increases of 167 and 98% over the control (no application), respectively. The conjoint application of nutrients resulted in synergistic and antagonistic interactions. Synergistic interactions were observed in the first 2 years of the study, followed by antagonistic interactions in the third year. Three principal components cumulatively explained 86% of the variation among the mechanisms. The mechanisms which contributed most to the added benefits were priming effect, balanced nutrient ratio, and nutrient synchrony.

Influence of variety, organic and mineral fertilization on the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of cucumbers crop (Cucumis sativus L.)

The experiment was carried out at the Agricultural Research Station of the College of Agriculture and the Marshlands / University of Thi-Qar, located in Al- Mustufawia for the agricultural season (2019-2020). The study was the effect of cultivar and organic and mineral fertilization on the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of cucumber crops grown in greenhouses, and applied according to the factorial experiments inside the split plots, using the complete randomized sectors with three replications. The factors of research were: two cultivars (Datis and Sakata) occupied the main plots, three levels of organic fertilization occupied the secondary plots which included control treatment O1, cow manure O2(2.457 tons of greenhouse-1) and poultry manure O3(3.713 tons of greenhouse-1) and the third factor was four levels of mineral fertilization (NPK) including control treatment M1, M2 (2.250 kg. dunam-1), M3 (3.350 kg. dunam-1), and M4 (4.450 kg. dunam-1) which occupied the sub-plots. The results showed that Datis cultivar significantly outperformed Sakata cultivar in yield per plant, total yield, leaf content of nitrogen and phosphorus, and fruit content of carbohydrates, reaching (1.402 kg. plant-1, 24.24 tons .greenhoues-1, 2.2517%, 0.4069%, 1.2876%) respectively. On the other hand, the treatment of organic fertilizer O3 recorded a significant effect in the following crop traits such as leaf area, total yield, leaf content of nitrogen and phosphorus, and fruit content of carbohydrate, reaching (178.0 cm2, 24.36 tons. greenhouse-1, 2.5017%, 0.4608%, 1.3561%). Respectively compared to other treatments, total yield, leaf content of nitrogen and phosphorus, reaching (180.1 cm2, 25.88 t. greenhoues-1, and 2.3478%, and 0.4561%) to other treatments. The treatment M2 significantly outperformed in yield per plant (1.682) kg. plant-1 and treatment M3 significantly exceeded the fruit's carbohydrate content, reaching (1.2930%). All the combinations among this study's treatments were compared to meet their significant effecting on all traits.

Influence of mineral fertilization level on photosynthetic potential and productivity of spring triticale varieties in the Northern Steppe

Influence of mineral fertilization level on photosynthetic potential and productivity of spring triticale varieties in the Northern Steppe