Open AccessNitrogen affecting switchgrass yield, nitrogen removal, and use efficiency
Author(s) -
Massey Joshua R.,
Antonangelo Joao A.,
Zhang Hailin
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
agrosystems, geosciences and environment
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2639-6696
DOI - 10.1002/agg2.20064
Subject(s) - panicum virgatum , agronomy , human fertilization , biomass (ecology) , nutrient , nitrogen , fertilizer , yield (engineering) , environmental science , forage , hay , biofuel , bioenergy , raw material , biology , chemistry , microbiology and biotechnology , ecology , materials science , organic chemistry , metallurgy
Abstract Best management practices for switchgrass ( Panicum virgatum L.) fertilization in the production of biofuel feedstock and forage hay are variable depending on climate, harvest timing, and variety. A study of N fertilization was conducted to evaluate the yield response, nutrient removal, and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in 12 yr old switchgrass stands in Stillwater, OK. Seven rates of N fertilizer were applied ranging from 0 to 235.2 kg N ha −1 for 3 consecutive years (2008, 2009, and 2010). Positive linear trends in yield with increasing rates of N fertilizer ( P < .05) were observed in two out of three years. Differences in N removal due to N fertilization were found in all studied years although responses were inconsistent. Nitrogen concentration in harvested biomass increased as N rates and biomass yield increased. Nitrogen use efficiency increased with N rate ( P < .05) although many NUE values were negative up to application rate of 100.8 kg N ha −1 . Better understanding of nutrient uptake and use efficiency, removal with harvests, and cycling within the plant could provide more refined fertilization practices in switchgrass production.