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Background: The negative effects caused by chemical fertilizers on the environment have led in recent years to the use of ecological alternatives for the management of crops of economic interest, with the application of bioproducts. Objective: To evaluate the application of the EcoMic biofertilizer and the bioproducts based on Trichoderma and QuitoMax in the production of organic potatoes. Methodology: The research was carried out at Finca “El Viñedos” Los Palacios, where 1 ha of the tuber variety SPECTRA, of Dutch origin, was planted in a Red Ferralitic leached Quartzite soil and three blocks were established, in one of which potatoes were produced conventionally (control), in another it was the combination of bioproducts (QuitoMax, Trichoderma and EcoMic) and in the remaining only QuitoMax and Trichoderma was applied. For the treated blocks, applications of QuitoMax (4) and Trichoderma (8) were made after sprouting. Results: The number of tubers per plant increased by 47 and 50% in those biologically treated (QuitoMax, Trichoderma and EcoMic) and (QuitoMax and Trichoderma), respectively. A similar behavior was obtained with the block based on QuitoMax, Trichoderma and EcoMic in the size of the tubers (caliber) with 63% while the one treated with QuitoMax and Trichoderma obtained 14%; in agricultural yield it was 31 and 21%, with QuitoMax, Trichoderma and EcoMic standing out. Implications: The production of organic potatoes is possible with the application of bioproducts. Conclusions: With the combined application of the EcoMic biofertilizer and other bioproducts, it was possible to produce 19 t of organic potatoes on the “El Viñedo” Los Palacios farm.

Strawberry is an important crop in Florida, produced as an annual crop on plastic-mulched beds with drip irrigation. The main production area is in west-central Florida, including Hillsborough, Polk, and Manatee counties. Fertilizer is becoming a more significant portion of strawberry production costs, hence, proper fertilizer management is important for minimizing production costs and maximizing yield and fruit quality, while minimizing potential negative impacts on the environment caused by leaching or runoff of excess fertilizer nutrients. This guide summarizes the recent history of strawberry fertilization research and presents the updated research-based fertilizer management recommendations for strawberry production in Florida.

This study evaluated the effect of HS extracted from mineral coal on the growth of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and melon (Cucumis melo) plants to determine the role that humic substances (HS) play as promoters of plant growth. Three concentrations of HS were evaluated in 200 grams of soil. The fertilizer (urea 0.3%) and humic acid in concentrations of 0.05%, 0.1%, and 0.2% were added directly and at the same time to the amount of soil, using a control sample without the addition of humic acid. Increase measurements were made at three-day intervals up to 45 days. Plants treated with high concentrations of HS demonstrated a significant increase in roots (p>0.05). In both plants, the concentration of 0.2% in HS showed the greatest increase in growth, with the melon plant showing the greatest variation as time passed, with its highest peak in 36 days (13.1 ± 0.05cm) of the experiment, while in the tomato plant the maximum growth occurred in 30 days (9.2 ± 0.01 cm). The Dunnett test showed that there was no statistically significant difference between the control and the concentrations of 0.05% and 0.1% (p>0.05), while among the control and the soil sample with a concentration of 0.2% there was a statistically significant difference (p

Organic peach production systems in Florida are an attractive option for farmers selling direct-to-consumer, including U-Pick operations. Profitability is contingent upon appropriate cultivar selection, efficient nutrient and water management, preventative pest management, and selling fruit for a price premium during the early market window. This comprehensive 14-page fact sheet includes evidence- and producer-based best practice recommendations and is designed for small- and mid-size farm operators who are certified organic or who desire to use organic practices. Written by David Campbell, Danielle Treadwell, Ali Sarkhosh, Oscar E. Liburd, and Jeff Brecht, and published by the UF/IFAS Horticultural Sciences Department. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/hs1447

Due to the compacting of cow manure in dairy farms, it is rarely used in the pasture and forage areas, resulting in low agricultural yields and low milk production. This work was developed during five years in five dairy farms of the “El Tablón” Livestock Enterprise, Cienfuegos, through the manufacture and application to the soil of natural organo-mineral fertilizer (Zeofert) with the objective of increasing the yield of pasture and forage. For the preparation of Zeofert, fresh cow dung deposited by the animals on the floor of the shaded sheds was used and mixed with 1-3 mm particles of natural zeolitic rock (Fertisol). The obtained de-compacted manure (2,362 t) was applied manually on 94.5 ha of pasture and forage at a rate of 25 t ha-1. The results showed that the application of Zeofert to the soil significantly increased the yield of Panicum maximum Jacq. cultivar ‘Common’ (natural grass) and P. maximum cultivar ‘Likoni’ (guinea grass) by 52 % and of Pennisetum purpureum Schum. (king grass) cultivar ‘CT-115’ by 77 %, while milk production was increased by 20 %, all with respect to the control. The return of nutrients to the soil was restored, with a significant increase in the contents of P2O5, K2O, organic matter, and pH values. The use of 99, 124, and 116 t of NH4NO3, simple supersulfate, and KCl were substituted as equivalent chemical fertilizers, respectively. The use of this technology is recommended in those units that have cattle in stabled or semi-stabled conditions.

The residual sludge from anaerobic digestion known as digestate has been used as a valuable biofertilizer, but the effect of the substrate, the configuration of the reactor and the operating parameter changes the quality and amounts of nutrients in it. Therefore, it is necessary to know its potential characteristic of fertilizer to apply it correctly in crops of national interest. The aim of this work was to characterize the digestate generated from three biodigester technologies (fixed dome, floating drum and tubular) and three substrates: swine manure, cow manure, and co-digestion of swine and cow manure obtained in the province of Sancti Spíritus, Cuba, in terms of nutrient and matter content. For this purpose, stratified statistical sampling was carried out to ensure representative samples and descriptive statistical techniques were used to process the analyses. The digestate was divided into liquid and solid fractions according to the dry matter content (15%). The content of organic matter and ash represented around 50% for both fractions, which enhances its value as a soil conditioner. The nutrient content of both fractions showed good fertilizing properties, having a nutrient ratio (NH4+:PO43-:K+:SO42-:Mg2+:Ca2+) in the liquid (0.002:0.80:0.10:1.00:0.89:0.93) and solid (0.0003:0.96:0.002:1.00:0.52:0.50) fractions, that would contribute to the return nutrients to the soil. The quality of the liquid fraction as irrigation water was assessed as good, according to the relationship between the concentration of the nutrients (Ca, Mg, Na and K) and hardness. Further research is needed on the appropriate dosage for the different crops, and its contribution to sustainable agriculture in the Cuban context.

Human population growth and development has been largely dependent on non-renewable natural resources, which cannot be indefinitely sustained. Beyond, coal and other abundant resources cannot continue to be used at current rates due to their impact on the environment and climate. It is thus important to replace as much as possible the fossil fuels and scarce minerals as sources of energy and industrial raw materials. Biomass plays a key role in this scenario, since its availability depends on abundant but often misused resources: air, water, sunlight and land. The “oil shocks”, the recognition of impending resource shortages, the global pollution and climate change led many governments and organizations to create roadmaps to Bioeconomy. This includes the growing use of plants and animals to produce energy and raw materials, but it cannot create food scarcity. Agriculture depends on the plant macronutrients N, P and K, and this article discusses their role in plant and animal growth, production and consumption, dependence on non-renewable minerals and energy and perspectives for increasing their efficiency. Special attention is given to Brazilian agriculture that is heavily dependent on imported NPK, requiring strategic action and research.

The goal of this new 8-page document is to demonstrate a scientifically based approach to estimating the water quality and subsequent economic benefits of UF/IFAS Extension programming related to nutrient management in residential landscapes. It also provides a sample impact statement that could be used by UF/IFAS Extension Agents as they compile the effectiveness of their program(s). Written by Alexander J. Reisinger and Tina McIntyre and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Soil and Water Sciences. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ss705

This new 11-page publication focuses on the nitrogen (N) fertilizer best management practices (BMP) for potato crop in Florida. The aim is to provide management strategies that comply with statewide BMP guidelines to maximize yield and economic return while minimizing N losses to the environment. Written by Lincoln Zotarelli, Tara Wade, Gary K. England, and Christian T. Christensen and published by the UF/IFAS Horticultural Sciences Department. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/hs1429

Growth comparisons were made between a microalgal consortium and Scenedesmus sp. cultivated in treated wastewater (TWw) enriched with 1 mL·L–1 Bayfolan Forte fertilizer (BM), TWw enriched with (NH4)2HPO4 (PAM), TWw enriched with NH4HCO3 (BCAM), tap water with piggery wastewater (PEM), tap water with piggery wastewater digestate (PDM), and raw wastewater (Ww). Nitrogen (N) content in the media, except for TWw, was adjusted to 80 mg·L–1 N (NH4+-N and NO3–-N). Unconventional low-cost media with lower nutrient contents (BM and TWw) showed adequate productions of biomass and lipids. PEM was the most advantageous medium, showing the highest biomass productivity with the consortium (191.25 ± 6.25 g·L–1·d–1) and a lipid productivity of 36.75 ± 9.90 mg·L–1·d–1. The fatty acid profile was composed mainly of C16 and C18. PAM, PEM, and PDM showed a higher proportion of saturated fatty acids (60%–69%), whereas the composition of unsaturated fatty acids was in the range of 31% to 38%. In PEM and PDM the removal of NH4+ was 100%; however, there were NH4+ losses (as NH3) due to volatilization (46%). Unconventional media, especially Ww, are an option for growing microalgae.

Sustainability encompasses several aspects, one of which is the reuse of nutrient-rich effluent. In recent years, improper disposal of pharmaceuticals and pharmaceutical effluent, which contain recalcitrant compounds, has caused great environmental damage. An alternative disposal strategy that has been studied for several residues is their reuse for agricultural purposes. This work evaluated the potential of using pharmaceutical effluent for fertilizing Schinus molle, a native Brazilian species locally known as “aroeira-salsa.” Effluent was pretreated by chemical precipitation, and the solid phase was tested as fertilizer. Seedlings were grown in soil or compost. The soil used was classified as Red-Yellow Acrisol with medium loamy texture and high Al content, which is typically found in the Vale do Paraíba region, São Paulo, Brazil. Two agricultural composts were used as substrate, both from the Taboão Ecological Park located in Vale do Paraíba. Fertilizer application improved the physicochemical characteristics of all growing media, increasing C, N, P, K, Mg, and Ca contents, base saturation, and pH, while decreasing Al content and density. Fertilization improved nutrient absorption and plant growth.

Abstract: The objective of this work was to evaluate the stalk yield, technological quality parameters, and sugar and alcohol productions in the first sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) crop cycle, according to the response to N and K2O applications by subsurface drip fertigation. The experiment was carried out in a dystrophic Ultisol, in a randomized complete block design with four replicates. The treatments consisted of a 2X + 2X + 1 incomplete factorial arrangement with the application of 60, 80, 120, 160, and 180 kg ha-1 N and 60, 80, 120, 160, and 180 kg ha-1 K2O. The maximum estimated yield (217.5 Mg ha-1) was obtained with the application of 180 kg ha-1 N and 60 kg ha-1 K2O. Sugar and alcohol productions increased with N application above 120 kg ha-1. The technological quality characteristics of soluble solids content, apparent sucrose in the juice/broth, apparent sucrose in sugarcane, purity, and fiber show the highest averages with the application of 180 kg ha-1 N and 60 kg ha-1 K2O.

ABSTRACT: Although Brazil is one of the world's leading exporter of agricultural products, the country is highly dependent on the importation of potassic fertilizers. K-bearing silicate rocks are reported as potential solutions to reduce external K dependency. This work evaluated K extraction from silicate Verdete rock, a glauconite-bearing rock containing 10 % of K2O, by solubilization with organic acids. Firstly, Verdete rock was reacted during 3-120 h with solutions of citric or oxalic acid at 2 % (m/v) in Erlenmeyer flasks by shaking. Oxalic acid extracted 6.5 % of K in Verdete, while citric acid extracted 2.3 %. Another experiment was performed to evaluate the effect of various oxalic acid concentrations (2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 %) and differing reaction times (12, 24, 48, and 72 h) on K extraction from Verdete rock. Soluble K concentration nearly doubled with the increase of reaction time from 12 to 72 h, rising from 20 to 37 mg L–1. Increments in K extraction were obtained by increasing oxalic acid concentrations up to 6 % and above this concentration, no significant gain was observed. The X-ray diffraction data showed that K extraction resulted from the formation of oxalate-metal complexes with metals in Verdete rock.

Background. Low soil nutrient limit maize production in Nigeria, and inorganic fertilizer used in augmenting yield are expensive and hazardous. Objective. In search for a sustainable alternative, the effect of methods of application (foliar and incorporated) of different levels of moringa-banana peel-maize stalk fertilizer (MBPF) on the growth and yield of different maize varieties was investigated. Methodology. Pot and field experiments were conducted. Each experiment consisted of 2 x 4 x 6 factorial combinations. In the pot experiment, the treatments were laid out in CRD while RCBD was used in the field experiment. All treatments were replicated three times. Data collected on agronomic, aesthetic and yield traits were subjected to ANOVA using SAS 9.4 version. PCA was done, thereafter, structural equation model (SEM) was constructed, and GGE biplot used to cluster treatment interaction using GEA-R 4.1 version. Result. The results of both pot and field experiments had similar trend except that pot experiment had reduced height, poor phenotypic appeal and reduced grain yield. The result showed that mode of application, fertilizer treatments and maize varieties had significant (p SCH check > Double-cross hybrid > Three-way hybrid > Top-cross hybrid > OPV-STR. Implication. MBPF was most effective when incorporated into the soil a week before planting. Conclusion. Therefore, MBPF at 120N+50P+40K and 100N+40P+30K are sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to inorganic fertilizer.

The ‘guano of the islands’ in Perú is the excrement of cormorants, boobies and pelicans (guano birds), accumulated in large deposits on islands and headlands. This guano is harvested and marketed by the governmental agency AGRORURAL to meet the demands of local organic agriculture. As part of its management and commercialization plans, AGRORURAL estimates the total quantity of guano built-up on the seabird colonies using a volumetric method. The objective of this research was to propose an alternative geostatistical method that uses the volumetric data collection as baseline but incorporates the slope of the terrain and makes estimations of the total amount and distribution of guano using an interpolation grid model in a Geographic Information System (GIS). The data of the slope of the terrain, depth of guano layer, guano density and proportion guano/rock of georeferenced sampling points (taken with a hand-held GPS) on the island/headland surface were used to interpolate the quantity of guano over the entire surface using a raster kriging model so that each cell contained an estimated quantity of guano. For this study, six guano bird colonies were visited between June 2014 and February 2018. Based on the geostatistical method, the total quantity of guano estimated varied between 10921 t on Isla Mazorca and 26142 t on Isla Guañape Sur. The GIS grid maps showed that the quantity of guano deposits was not uniformly distributed over the island/headland surface. When the guano total quantity estimates based on the geostatistical method were validated with the amount of guano harvested, the estimation error was less than 18%. This error may decrease with the use of a submetric GPS, ground-penetrating radars and augers. An accurate method of guano volume quantification is crucial for budget, logistic and marketing planning of the guano islands and headlands of Perú.

Soil respiration is a significant indicator of soil microbial activity; global soil respiration and decomposition processes release yearly to the atmosphere a total of 220 billion tons of carbon dioxide. Therefore, studies on the whole- or one particular aspect of soil carbon cycle aiming at optimizing agricultural carbon dioxide emissions or improving carbon sequestration contribute to a sustainable agriculture practice. In this paper we present the effects of biofertilizer application (Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus circulans, and Pseudomonas putida) on soil respiration in chernozem soil. Experiments were performed at Látókép Experimental Station, belonging to the University of Debrecen, Hungary. Additionally, we compare our results with findings of prior studies related to commercial NPK fertilizer applications (in four doses: N60P45K45; N120P90K90; N180 P135K135; and N240P180K180), and two different cultivation methods (ploughed, loosened, RTK in rows, and RTK between rows); these investigations were conducted at the same experimental station. Our results indicate lower tendency for soil respiration, when biofertilizers are applied as compared to commercial NPK fertilizers, which enables to decrease CO2 emission in the environment.We also discuss a unit change in different alkali absorption-based methods (Oxitop and Witkamp) to facilitate comparability of recently acquired data with results of previous long-term fertilization experiments.

Although nitrogen (N) is one of the most abundant elements in the biosphere, it is generally at levels that are limiting for optimum plant growth and crop production in Florida soils. To maintain adequate N levels in Florida soils without having detrimental environmental side effects, one must understand and manage N cycling transformations and processes. This new 5-page article, published by the UF/IFAS Department of Soil and Water Sciences, provides an overview of the N cycle by describing key N transformations that result in soils gaining or losing N. The biotic and abiotic processes that govern these transformations are described, as well as practical examples of these transformations in Florida soils. Written by Clayton J. Nevins, Sarah L. Strauss, and Patrick Inglett. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ss684

With 80% of Florida’s residents living within 10 miles of the coast, Florida’s aquatic resources are directly affected by urbanization. The intent of this new 6-page publication of the UF/IFAS Department of Soil and Water Sciences is to describe the urban nitrogen cycle for a non-technical audience. Ultimately, this document is intended for individuals working in urban environments and concerned about nutrient pollution and water quality issues, but do not have a technical background and want to improve their understanding of nitrogen cycling. Written by Alexander J. Reisinger, Mary G. Lusk, and Ashley R. Smyth. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ss681

The province of Manabí occupies the first place in the meat production in Ecuador, the deficiency of food during the dry season is one of its main problems. The production of green hydroponic fodder (GHF) is proposed as an alternative solution, for which the following objectives were: i) determine the appropriate fertilizer for the hydroponic production of maize, ii) to establish the maize variety with the highest yield as GHF and iii) to define the appropriate harvest time in the exploitation of GHF. In order to develop this research, 2 mL/L of water of an inorganic fertilizer (IF) based on phosphorus was applied and 2 g/L of powdered mycorrhizal water were applied, which were tested in the varieties of white and yellow maize, With airing of 48 and 72 h respectively. The experimental design was completely randomized with factorial arrangement of 2x2x2 with eight treatments, generating 64 experimental units, considering as variables of response, weight, root size and leaf height of the GHF. The results determined higher weight of white maize with FI with 1.69 kg in trays of 40 x 50 cm and with 0.45 kg of maize per tray, at height level no statistical difference was determined and for root size, the best treatment was white corn with FI with 12.49 cm in length. It is concluded that white maize responds better to IF under hydroponic conditions, with an airing time of 48 h.

ABSTRACT: A new concept of fertilizer machine is under development and shows as differential individually fertilizer application, that is sources of N, P and K are applied separately for the purpose of improving the distribution efficiency of the quantities applied. The aim was to compare the quality of the individualized mechanized distribution of N, P and K in combined operations with and without herbicide application, as well as to evaluate the fertilizer application on each side of the fertilizer machine. The experiment was carried out on Cascavel farm, in the municipality of MatãoSP. The experimental design was established according to the criteria of quality control, and variables monitoring carried out in the place during fertilization operation, having the fertilizer distribution operation; simultaneous operation of fertilizer distribution and herbicide application treatments; and two simple operations, fertilizer distribution followed by herbicide application. We concluded that the better operational quality was in two distinct operations. The right side of the fertilizer had the best result because it applied the amount close to the regulated dosage. The distribution of potassium chloride expressed in the control charts greater operational quality compared to other fertilizers.

ABSTRACT The use of nitrification inhibitors (NIs; dicyandiamide - DCD) is an alternative to reduce oxidation of ammonium (NH4+-N) to nitrate (NO3–-N) in the soil, reducing NO3–-N losses from fertilization practices. Based on the hypothesis that DCD reduces conversion of NH4+-N to NO3–-N in tropical soils and inhibits ammonia oxidizing microorganisms (AOM) abundance, soils from the Piracicaba region, São Paulo, with different textures (sand, loam and clay) were incubated with ammonium sulphate (AS) and DCD. Contents of NH4+-N, NO3–-N, soil pH, and AOM abundance were quantified periodically. Ammonium sulphate increased AOM abundance in all soils, but AS+DCD presented AOM abundances similar to the control. During 90 days of incubation, the effectiveness of DCD in reducing NO3–-N production was 1.8, 86.4, and 145.6 mg kg–1, while the effectiveness of DCD in reducing AOM abundance was 1.2, 3.0 and 2.3 × 10–3 g soil–1 for sandy, loamy, and clayey soils, respectively. DCD effectiveness was greater in loamy and clayey soils due to the naturally low nitrification in sandy soils. Application of AS treated with DCD showed potential not only to reduce NO3–-N production in loamy and clayey soils, but also to decrease the soil nitrification rate. Overall, DCD was effective in reducing AOM abundance and conversion of NH4+-N to NO3–-N in loamy and clay soils evaluated here. The increase in clay content directly influences DCD effectiveness in reducing conversion of NH4+-N to NO3–-N.

Citrus tree production in nurseries can be divided into three stages: production of rootstock liners, transplant of rootstocks into larger containers, and bud grafting. The objectives of this new 6-page publication of the UF/IFAS Horticultural Sciences Department are to provide general information on irrigation and fertilization for production of citrus nursery trees in seedbeds, nurseries and budwood multiplication blocks. This article, written by Rhuanito Soranz Ferrarezi, is chapter 8b of the forthcoming Citrus Nursery Production Guide. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/hs1333

A field experiment was conducted for two consecutive years to study the effect of fertilizer application methods and inter and intra-row weed-crop competition durations on density and biomass of different weeds and growth, grain yield and yield components of maize. The experimental treatments comprised of two fertilizer application methods (side placement and below seed placement) and inter and intra-row weed-crop competition durations each for 15, 30, 45, and 60 days after emergence, as well as through the crop growing period. Fertilizer application method didn't affect weed density, biomass, and grain yield of maize. Below seed fertilizer placement generally resulted in less mean weed dry weight and more crop leaf area index, growth rate, grain weight per cob and 1000 grain weight. Minimum number of weeds and dry weight were recorded in inter-row or intra-row weed-crop competition for 15 DAE. Number of cobs per plant, grain weight per cob, 1000 grain weight and grain yield decreased with an increase in both inter-row and intra-row weed-crop competition durations. Maximum mean grain yield of 6.35 and 6.33 tha-1 were recorded in inter-row and intra-row weed competition for 15 DAE, respectively.

The amount of energy required to produce a commodity or to supply a service varies from one production system to another and consequently giving rise to differing levels of environmental efficiency. Moreover, since energy prices have been continuously increasing over time, this energy amount may be a factor that has economic worth. Biomass production has a variety of end-products such as food, energy, and fiber; thus, taking into account the similarity in end-product of different crops (e.g.: sunflower, peanuts, or soybean for oil) it is possible to evaluate which crops require less energy per functional unit, such as starch, oil, and protein. This information can be used in decision-making about policies for food safety or bioenergy. In this study, 23 crops were evaluated allowing for a comparison in terms of energy embodied per functional unit. Crops were grouped as follows: starch, oil, horticultural, perennial and fiber, to provide for a deeper analysis of alternatives for the groups, and subsidize further studies comparing conventional and alternative production systems such as organic or genetically modified organisms, in terms of energy. The best energy balance observed was whole sugarcane (juice, bagasse and straw) with a surplus of 268 GJ ha−1 yr−1; palm shows the highest energy return on investment with a ratio of approximately 30:1. For carbohydrates and protein production, cassava and soybean, respectively, emerged as the crops offering the greatest energy savings in the production of these functional foods.

ABSTRACT: This study was conducted to explore the growth stimulating effect of foliage applied brassica water extract on growth and productivity of bread wheat (cv. Punjab 2011) at low and high fertilizer doses. The brassica water extract (5%) and the commercial growth regulator benzyl amino purine (BAP) (5 ppm) were applied alone and in combination at 30 and 45 days after sowing (DAS) under low fertilizer dose (125 kg ha-1 N and 90 kg ha-1 P) and high fertilizer doses (225 kg ha-1 N and 150 kg ha-1 P). Application of the brassica water extract (5%) significantly improved morphological traits such as crop growth rate, leaf elongation, leaf area index, plant height and number of productive tillers under both fertilizer regimes. Similarly, growth regulator benzyl amino purine (5 ppm) application enhanced the growth and yield components of wheat. However, maximum grain yield (6.20 t ha-1) was recorded with combined application of the brassica water extract (5%) and BAP (5 ppm) under the high fertilizer dose followed by individual application of the brassica water extract (5%) and BAP where 5.39 and 5.94 t ha-1 grain yields were recorded. Biological yield also showed an almost similar trend under the influence of the allelopathic water extract of brassica and BAP. Economic and marginal net benefits of 1521.6 and 237.0 USD ha-1 were respectively achieved with the application of the brassica water extract under the lower and higher fertilizer applications, respectively. The foliage applied 5% brassica water extract and BAP (5 ppm) was the most effective and had a stimulating impact on the growth and productivity of wheat.

Zeolite-clinoptilolite is a hydrated aluminosilicate, which belongs to a group of minerals of volcanic origin and possesses interesting agricultural properties. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of zeolite-clinoptilolite on Solanum lycopersicum Mill. seedling growth, when supplied to substrate in pot culture. An assay was set to test and compare the physical properties of three substrates: peat moss (pm), perlite (per) and zeolite (zeo), and their mixtures (pm:per:zeo) at different proportions: T1 or control = 100:0:0; T2 = 70:30:0; T3 = 70:20:10; T4 = 70:10:20 and T5 = 70:0:30 (v/v). Compared to control plants, substrates containing 30% zeolite increased their water holding capacity (260%), total porosity (8.47%), bulk density (212%) and particle density (230%). Related to control plants grown with 100% peat moss, tomato seedlings cultured in a substrate mixture with 30% zeolite significantly improved shoot length (24.2%), leaf area (64.5%), root length (63.2%), shoot dry weight (62.5%), root dry biomass (208.9%), stem diameter (28.5%) and leaves number (92%), however, the chlorophyll index had no significant effects. The overall outcomes indicated that substrates amendment with zeolite could effectively improve tomato plants growth.

Iron (Fe) is commonly applied to enhance turfgrass color. Understanding the dynamics of Fe both in the plant and in the soil could greatly enhance your nutrient management programs. The objective of this 4-page publication is to explain the function of Fe within the plant, describe the Fe sources available for turfgrasses, and identify which forms of Fe are most effective in improving turfgrass quality. Written by Travis Shaddox and J.B. Unruh and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Environmental Horticulture, January 2018. http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep551

The yellow maize is the third most important crop in Peru and part of the chain maize-poultry-pig, significant impact on the national economic and social activity, however, in 2011, only 40% of the corn offered corresponded to the domestic industry. Looking for alternatives to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers, have performed investigations with plant growth promoting rhizobacteria. Bacteria were isolated from the rhizosphere of maize from districts Monsefú and Reque, Lambayeque. Dilution was made into sterile saline 0.87% NaCl w/v and plated on MacConkey agar, incubating at 30°C for 48 hours. 269 pure cultures of bacteria were obtained, the biochemical reaction was investigated in agar Triple sugar iron agar Iron Lysine, agar Citrate Simons, peptone broth, red broth methyl Voges-Proskauer and nitrate broth, was identified 66% as Enterobacteriaceae of genera Pantoea (49%), Klebsiella (17%), Kluyvera (16%), Serratia (11%), Citrobacter (4%) and Hafnia (3%). The native enterobacteria were quantified to 31.67 ppm of fixed nitrogen as ammonia; 54.25 ppm indole acetic acid and 4,78 ppm solubilized phosphorus, activity proteolytic and chitinolytic and antagonistic activity of Fusarium verticillioides were also determined. 16% of native enterobacteria did not affect the emergence of hard yellow maize, 77% affected positively and 7% affected negatively. In turn, none bacteria affected survival. Was demonstrated the potential plant growth promoter of enterobacteria isolated from field crops in the region of Lambayeque.

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The effect of irrigation and nitrogen fertilizer levels on the crude oil and fatty acid composition of maize cultivars was studied. Three levels of irrigation (50, 75 and 100% of field capacity) and nitrogen (100, 200 and 300 kg·ha-1) were used for treatment groups. After harvest, the crude oils were extracted and fatty acid profiles were determined by Gas Chromatography system. The study was repeated for two years and the interaction effects of fertilizer and irrigation were determined. Our results show that the crude oil content was affected positively by the fertilizer and the irrigation applications. As expected, the most abundant fatty acid was linoleic and the harvest year did not alter it. The highest linoleic acid content value was obtained with a 50% field capacity and 300 kg·ha-1 fertilizer treatment combination. In addition, fatty acid contents varied with the changing of interaction effects except for myristic and palmitic acid. Oleic acid was the second abundant fatty acid in the oil samples and the lowest oleic acid value was obtained with a 50% field capacity and 300 kg·ha-1 fertilizer treatment combination. Oleic acid content tended to increase with 75% field capacity but 100% field capacity treatment decreased in it.

Generally zooplankton growth is often limited by the quality of their algal diet. A cheaper common practice in aquaculture, is to culture algae with fertilizers; however, the demography of zooplankton when fed these algae has not yet been evaluated. We studied the population growth and life table demography of the rotifers Anuraeopsis fissa and Brachionus rubens, and the cladoceran Moina macrocopa. For this, the algae Scenedesmus acutus or Chlorella vulgaris were cultured on defined (Bold’s basal) medium or the commercial liquid fertilizer (Bayfolan). Experiments were conducted at one algal concentration 1.0x10(6)cells/mL of C. vulgaris or its equivalent dry weight of 0.5x10(6)cells/mL of S. acutus. The population dynamics were tested at 23±1ºC in 100mL transparent jars, each with 50mL of the test medium, with an initial density of 0.5indiv/mL, for a total of 48 test jars (3 zooplankton 2 algal species x 2 culture media x 4 replicates). For the life table experiments with M. macrocopa, we introduced 10 neonates (Generalmente el crecimiento del zooplancton está a menudo limitado por la calidad de su dieta de algas. La demografía del zooplancton durante la alimentación con algas no ha sido estudiada, a pesar de que el cultivo de algas con fertilizantes es una práctica económica común en acuacultura. Se analizó la demografía de Anuraeopsis fissa y Brachionus rubens (rotíferos) y Moina macrocopa (cladóceros), alimentados con las algas verdes Scenedesmus acutus o Chlorella vulgaris cultivadas en medio Bold o fertilizante líquido comercial (Bayfolan, de Bayer). En los rotíferos no se observaron diferencias significativas en el promedio de vida, sin embargo, este parámetro en M. macrocopa con S. acutus cultivada en Medio Bold, fue significativamente menor que en otras dietas. Las tasas de reproducción bruta y neta de A. fissa fueron significativamente mayores con C. vulgaris cultivada en medio Bold, que con el fertilizante; estas tasas en B. rubens, independientemente del medio de cultivo, resultaron significativamente mayores con Chlorella que S. acutus. La tasa de reproducción de M. macrocopa fue significativamente mayor en todas, a excepción de S. acutus en Bold. En el crecimiento poblacional con A. fissa y B. rubens la tasa de crecimiento poblacional varió de 0.1 hasta 0.25/d, significativamente mayores en C. vulgaris cultivadas con fertilizante, en comparación con las otras dietas; en M. macrocopa la tasa de crecimiento varió desde 0.1 hasta 0.38/d, las más altas fueron: con C. vulgaris cultivadas en medio Bold y S. acutus cultivadas con fertilizante. Así, en todas las especies, la tasa de crecimiento fue más alta con Chlorella que con Scenedesmus.

The use of biodigester for basic and environmental sanitation has large demand in Brazil. A biodigester was built to treat conjunctly the human and pig feces and urine, regarding to its future application in rural small towns. The results show that the biodigester can reduce 90% of COD and BOD and, up to 99.99% of thermotolerant coliforms. The treated effluent has variable quantities of macro- and micro-nutrients; and organic matter. However, the concentration variability of the nutrients makes difficult a dosed application into soil. The soluble salts (mainly as Na+ form) make necessary a controlled use to avoid environmental degradation.

Con el fin de evaluar el efecto del enriquecimiento con nutrientes (una sal de fósforo o un fertilizante comercial con N, P y K) como alternativa para mejorar la capacidad de degradación de los microorganismos en una matriz sólida, contaminada con los pesticidas organofosforados: clorpirifos, malatión y metil paratión, se realizaron experimentos de cultivo bajo condiciones controladas de oscuridad, temperatura y humedad por 30 días. En todos los tratamientos hubo degradación de los pesticidas; sin embargo, en el tratamiento con fósforo los tiempos para degradar el clorpirifos y el metil paratión fueron mayores. La presencia de los pesticidas no generó efectos tóxicos detectables sobre la microflora en ninguno de los tratamientos evaluados. La actividad biológica de las matrices no presentó una relación directa con la capacidad de degradación.In order to evaluate the effect of inorganic nutrient addition (phosphorus or commercial fertilizer) over the microbial degradation capacity present in a solid matrix contaminated with chlorpyrifos, malathion and methyl parathion, microcosms assays were held under controlled conditions of light, moisture and temperature for 30 days. Results showed that even though three treatments microorganisms were able to degrade the three organophosphorus pesticides, microorganisms of phosphorus-enrichment treatment were less efficient to degrade Chlorpyrifos and Methyl Parathion than microorganisms of Fertilizer-enrichment treatment. It was not observed a direct relation between mineralization and microbial pesticides degradation capacity. The microbial activity was not affected by the presence of organophosphorus pesticides.

The degradation of Brachiaria decumbens Stapf. (Signal grass) pastures has resulted in a big problem for the Brazilian cattlemen. The objective of this study was to assess fertilization with nitrogen (N) and sulphur (S) rates on yield of Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) Stapf. cv. Marandu (Marandu palisadegrass) under establishment in a soil supporting degrading pasture of Brachiaria decumbens Stapf. Additionally, the N and S concentrations in plant tissue and soil according to the rates of these nutrients were evaluated. The study was carried out in a greenhouse in pots filled with an Entisol with high organic matter content. Five rates of N (0; 100; 200; 300 and 400 mg dm-3) and five rates of S (0; 10; 20; 30 and 40 mg dm-3) were tested in a 5² fractionated factorial. Plants were harvest three times. The interaction N rates × S rates was significant for the variables leaf area, tiller number, shoot dry matter, N concentration and N:S ratio in plants, and total N and sulphur-sulphate in the soil in at least one of the three growth periods of Marandu palisadegrass in establishment. The supply of both S and N to reach the N:S ratio about 10:1 in the fertilization promoted high yield, adequate N and S concentrations for plant metabolism and forage production, as well as kept and/or raised the soil fertility in relation to these nutrients.A degradação de pastagens formadas por plantas de Brachiaria decumbens Stapf. (capim-Braquiária) é um problema que assola os pecuaristas brasileiros. Avaliaram-se combinações de doses de nitrogênio (N) e de enxofre (S) na produção da Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) Stapf. cv. Marandu (capim-Marandu) em implantação em solo de área vegetada com capim-Braquiária em degradação, e as alterações nas concentrações desses elementos no tecido vegetal e no solo promovidas pela adubação com N e S. O experimento foi realizado em casa de vegetação em vasos contendo Neossolo Quartzarênico com expressivo teor de matéria orgânica. Avaliaram-se cinco doses de N (0; 100; 200; 300 e 400 mg dm-3) combinadas com cinco doses de S (0; 10; 20; 30 e 40 mg dm-3), em um fatorial 5² fracionado. Realizaram-se três cortes das plantas de capim-Marandu. A interação doses de N × doses de S na adubação foi significativa para as variáveis área foliar total, número de perfilhos, massa seca da parte aérea, concentração de N e relação N:S na planta, e teores de N total e enxofresulfato do solo em pelo menos um dos três crescimentos do capim-Marandu. A relação N:S no fertilizante em aproximadamente 10:1 propiciou elevada produção de massa seca, com concentrações de N e de S adequadas para o metabolismo da planta e produção de forragem, bem como manteve e/ou incrementou a fertilidade do solo em relação aos referidos nutrientes.

La cachaza puede ser utilizada en la agricultura como corrector del suelo o enmienda, pero su potencial no ha sido explorado hasta ahora. Esta investigación, realizada en Chitaraque (Boyacá), evaluó en un cultivo de maíz, el efecto de diferentes dosis de esta enmienda, en comparación con un testigo comercial y maíz sin tratamientos. Cada UE estaba compuesta de 96 plantas, con un total de 2.304 para el experimento. Las variables fisiológicas, se analizaron y se midieron al final de la cosecha, seleccionando ocho plantas del centro de cada UE y fueron: número de granos por mazorca, peso de 100 granos, altura de planta, diámetro del tallo a 50 y 100cm de altura de la planta, área foliar, materia fresca y materia seca. La mayor producción se obtuvo con la aplicación de 7,5t.ha-1 de cachaza. El empleo de 5,8t.ha-1originó un mayor peso de los granos y la mayor altura de la planta resultó de la aplicación de 15t.ha-1 de cachaza fresca; la misma dosis causó los tallos más gruesos. La mayor cantidad de materia follaje fresco, se logró con la dosis de 12,5t.ha-1. La materia seca no mostró diferencias significativas entre las variadas aplicaciones de cachaza. La aplicación de cachaza generó mayor masa fresca y la dosis de 8t.ha-1 aumentó el número de granos por mazorca, por lo que el empleo de esta enmienda orgánica ayudó a aumentar la producción del cultivo de maíz y puede suplir, en este caso, la fertilización química.Filter cake can be used in agriculture as soil corrective or fertilizer, but its potential is unexplored until now. This research, carried out at Chitaraque/Boyacá, aimed to evaluate the effect of different doses of soil corrective (fresh filter cake), compared with a commercial fertilizer and maize without treatments. Each experimental unit (EU) was composed of 96 plants for a total of 2,304 for the experiment. The physiological variables analyzed were measured at harvest time, selecting eight plants of the center of each EU, and were: kernel number per cob, weight of 100 kernels, plant height (cm), stalk diameter at 50 and 100cm of plant height, leaf area (cm2), fresh matter (g) and dry matter (g). The higher kernel production was obtained with the application 7.5t.ha-1 of fresh filter cake. The doses of 5.8t.ha-1 resulted in the highest production of dry kernels and the greatest height was founded with 15t.ha-1 of fresh filter cake; the same dosage originated the thickest diameter. The greatest amount of foliage and fresh matter were found with 12.5t.ha-1. Dry matter, on the other hand, didn’t show statistically significant differences between the various doses of fresh filter cake. The use of fresh filter cake showed higher fresh mass and the dose of 8t.ha-1 increased the kernel number, since the application of this organic amendment helped to improve corn yield and can supply, in this case, the chemical fertilization.

Neste trabalho pretendeu-se prever a sali­nização e sodicização de dois solos com diferentes texturas, quando regados com águas salinas combinadas com fertirrigação diferenciada e após subsequente lavagem no período Outono-Inverno. A condutividade eléctrica do extracto de saturação e da solu­ção do solo foi usada como indicador de salinidade. A percentagem de sódio de troca (ESP) e razão de adsorção de sódio (SAR) foram os indicadores usados para caracteri­zar a sodicidade do solo. As relações entre indicadores foram analisadas por regressão múltipla. Os melhores resultados de previ­são foram encontrados para o indicador SAR no solo de textura mediana e nos períodos após a rega e a lavagem, enquanto que no solo de textura grosseira foram observados no período após lavagem. Verificou-se que o azoto aplicado contribui para a salinidade da solução do solo quando a água de rega contém baixo teor em sais. Como regra, à medida que a qualidade da água de rega se reduz, o azoto contribui para diminuir a salinidade da solução do solo.This work aims predicting salinization and sodification in two soils with different textures when they are irrigated with saline waters combined with different fertirrigation levels, and after the fall/winter rainfall washout of the soil. The electrical conduc­tivity of the saturation paste and of the soil solution was used as soil salinity indicator. The exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) and sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) were used to characterize soil sodicity. Relation­ships between the indicators were studied with multiple regression analysis. The re­sults reveal that better predictions are ob­tained when the indicator SAR is used for the medium textured soil and when the irri­gation season and the rain washout period are taken into consideration, but for the coarse textured soil such predictions are best obtained only after the rain period. The ap­plied nitrogen also contributes to soil solution salinity only when low salt content is observed in the irrigation water. As a gen­eral rule, as the water quality decreases, ni­trogen applications contribute to diminish the soil solution salinity.

Long-term agroecosystem productivity has stirred up the need to develop and implement nutrient management strategies that maintain and protect soil resources. In an attempt to address this, the current study involved the incorporation of residues of Centrosema pascuorum, Lablab purpureus and Parkia biglobosa. In addition, an inorganic fertilizer amended soil and, a maize/Lablab purpureus intercrop, along with the control (no amendment) was included. The treatments were replicated three times and the site had been under continuous cultivation for eight years in a savanna Alfisol. Soil quality (physical and chemical) indicators were examined for treatments effects. Dry macroaggregate turnover increased by 7% under C. pascuorum amended soils. This same treatment had more water-stable large microaggregates and a 40% increase in aggregated silt and clay content. Soil bulk density and saturated hydraulic conductivity reduced in nutrient management practices involving residue incorporation. However, soil organic carbon, total soil nitrogen, exchangeable Ca2+ and Mg2+ concentration were highest with soil receiving C. pascuorum. Crop residue management practices involving incorporation of C. pascuorum significantly improved soil physical and chemical properties of the study area.

O efeito do silício (Si) na produção de matéria seca de arroz, teor e acúmulo de Si foi avaliado sob condições de casa-de-vegetação. O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial 5 x 2 com 4 repetições. Os tratamentos foram 5 doses de Si (0; 0,25; 0,50; 0,75 e 1,00 g dm-3) e 2 cultivares de arroz (Conai e Curinga). A aplicação de Si não afetou os componentes de crescimento e produção, com exceção da matéria seca de raiz. Houve um acréscimo da matéria seca de raiz sob aplicação de Si com uma produção máxima de 33,57 g vaso-1 na dose ajustada de 0,38 g dm-3 de Si. O acúmulo e os teores de Si variaram entre os cultivares, os quais responderam de forma linear ao aumento das doses de Si. Já para o acúmulo de Si na parte aérea não houve diferenças significativas entre cultivares.The effect of silicon (Si) application on dry matter production of rice, as well as on the content and accumulation of silicon was evaluated under greenhouse conditions. The experimental design was a completely randomized design arranged in a 5 x 2 factorial structure with four replicates. The treatments consisted of a combination of five Si levels (0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, and 1.00 g dm-3) and two rice cultivars (Conai and Curinga). The Si application did not affect the growth and production components except the root dry matter. There was an increase in the root dry matter under Si application with a maximum production of 33.57 g pot-1 in the dose of 0.38 g dm-3 Si. The content and accumulation of Si varied between the cultivars, increasing linearly with the Si levels, except for Si accumulated in the shoot, where no significant differences were observed between the cultivars.

O mogno (Swietenia macrophylla King), pelo elevado valor comercial da sua madeira, é uma das espécies mais exploradas na Amazônia, sendo ameaçada de extinção por não haver renovação dos estoques através de reflorestamento com a espécie. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da adubação fosfatada sobre o desenvolvimento de mudas de mogno. O estudo foi conduzidos em casa-de-vegetação e o solo utilizado para compor o substrato foi Latossolo Amarelo de textura muito argilosa. Os tratamentos constituiram-se de doses crescentes de fósforo de 0, 25, 30, 75, 100, 150 e 200 kg.ha-1 de P. O delineamento experimental foi o de blocos casualizados com 4 repetições, num total de 28 parcelas. Cada parcela foi formada por 2 mudas, cultivadas em sacos com capacidade de 4 dm³. Verificaram-se respostas positivas às doses de fósforo para todas as características de crescimento, bem como na absorção da maioria dos macronutrientes. Para as características de crescimento a dose de 200 kg.ha-1 de fósforo, foi a que proporcionou máximo crescimento para as mudas de mogno, no intervalo de 90 dias.ABSTRACT Due to the high value of mohogany woods (Swietenia macrophylla King), this specie is one of the most explored in the Amazon region. That explains the reason why mahogany is almost extinct.The present work evaluates the effect of phosphated fertilization on the mahogany seedlings under the increased doses of phosphorus. The experiment happened in a greenhouse and the soil used to compose the substratum was a yellow oxisoil with a very argillaceous texture. The treatments were made by doses of P: 0, 25, 30, 75, 100, 150 and 200 kg.ha-1 of P. The experimental design consisted of four randomized blocks, for a total of 28 parcels. Each parcel was formed by 2 seedlings, cultived in bags with 4 dm³ of soil. It was noticed positive answers by seedlings cultivated species for all the biometric characters analyzed and, in the same way, for the contents of almost the analyzed nutrients. For the growth characteristics, 200 kg.ha-1 was the dose that provided the high growth for mohogany, on the interval of 90 days.

A palmeira ráfia (Rhapis excelsa), possui elevado valor comercial, sendo utilizada na composição de vasos e jardins, principalmente em interiores. No entanto, poucas são as informações sobre sua exigência em adubação ou mesmo sobre as condições ótimas de sombreamento. Para sombreamento, além do tradicional sombrite, estão disponíveis atualmente no mercado as malhas fotoconversoras, que estimulam o desenvolvimento das espécies vegetais. Objetivou-se nesse trabalho avaliar a influência de diferentes porcentagens e tipos de sombreamentos e a nutrição foliar no desenvolvimento de mudas desta palmeira. Utilizaram-se plantas com aproximadamente 4 anos, em vaso contendo terra, areia e esterco (1:1:1), acrescido de 10 g de superfosfato simples por litro de substrato. Determinou-se o incremento em altura e o número de folhas aos 105 e 195 dias. Foi determinado também o número e altura dos brotos, largura do folíolo e altura final das plantas aos 195 dias. Em relação à adubação foliar, não foi observado efeito dessa sobre o desenvolvimento das mudas. As malhas para sombreamento também não exerceram efeitos significativos na altura final de plantas, indicando que o desenvolvimento das mudas de palmeira ráfia pode ser realizado sob qualquer tipo de sombreamento.Lady palm (Rhapis excelsa) has high commercial value, specially in ornaments of vases and gardens located on shade. However, the information about its requirements in fertilizer and great terms of shading are little. To shade, the common used material is shade net black. The color shade net stimulate the vegetal growth and it is recently used in the commercial system. The aim of this work was to evaluate the influence of different percents and types of shades and foliar fertilizer in development of seedlings this palm. The plants used in this experiment were cultivated in recipients with soil, organic matter and sand (1:1:1), with the addition of 10 g of fertilizer by liter of substrate. These plants were four years old approximately. The measurements of increasing of height and number of leaves were taken at 105 and 195 days since the beginning of the experiment. It was also observed the number and height of seedlings, width from leaflets, as well as the final plant height at 195 days. The foliar fertilizer was not affected in growth of seedlings. The different types of screening either affect significantly the final height of the plants, indicating than the growth of palm Rhapis can be under any kind of shade.

O experimento foi realizado em casa de vegetação, no período de maio a agosto de 2005, com o objetivo de avaliar o efeito da adubação fosfatada e nitrogenada sobre as características morfogênicas e estruturais do capim-tanzânia. As avaliações morfogênicas englobaram as taxas de aparecimento e alongamento de folhas e a taxa de alongamento de colmo. As avaliações estruturais foram o número total de folhas e número de folhas verdes por perfilho, número de perfilhos da planta e comprimento final da folha. Foi utilizado delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial 4 x 2, sendo quatro doses de fósforo (0, 50, 100 e 150 kg/ha de P2O5) e duas doses de nitrogênio (0 e 100 kg/ha de N) com quatro repetições. Foram utilizados vasos com capacidade de 6,3 litros cada, que, após desbaste, permaneceram com quatro plantas por vaso. As doses de N e P foram determinantes para as taxas de alongamento de folhas e alongamento de colmo, o número de perfilhos por planta e número de folhas verdes por perfilho. O suprimento de nitrogênio teve efeito positivo sobre a taxa de aparecimento de folhas, o número total de folhas e o comprimento final da folha do capim-tanzânia. A maioria das variáveis estudadas foi influenciada pela aplicação de fósforo, quando associada à aplicação do nitrogênio.The experiment was accomplished in a greenhouse from May to August of 2005, with the objective of to evaluate the effect of phosphorus and nitrogen fertilization on morphogenetic and structural characteristicas of Tanzania grass. The morphogenetic evaluations included leaf appearance, leaf elongation rate, and stem elongation rate. The structural evaluations measurements were: number of leaves, number of green leaves, number of tillers per plant, and final leaf length. It was used a complete randomized experimental design in 4 x 2 factorial scheme, being four phosphorus doses (0, 50, 100, and 150 kg of P2O5/ha) and two doses of nitrogen (0 and 100 kg of N/ha), with four replicates. It was utilized pots with 6.3 liters capacity each, leaving four plants per pot after staging. The N and P combination affected leaf elongation rate, stem elongation rate, number of tillers per plant, and number of green leaves per tillers. Nitrogen supply had a positive effect on leaf appearance rate, number of leaves, and final leaf length of tanzaniagrass. The majority of the studied variables were affected by the use of phosphorus when associated to N fertilization.