Influence of Lime and Gypsum on Yield and Yield Components of Soybean and Changes in Soil Chemical Properties

Soybean is one of the most important legume crops in the world. Two greenhouse experiments were conducted to determine the influence of liming and gypsum application on yield and yield components of soybean and changes in soil chemical properties of an Oxisol. Lime rates used were 0, 0.71, 1.42, 2.14, 2.85, and 4.28 g kg^?1 soil. Gypsum rates applied were 0, 0.28, 0.57, 1.14, 1.71, and 2.28 g kg^?1 soil. Lime as well as gypsum significantly increased grain yield in a quadratic fashion. Maximum grain yield was achieved with the application of 1.57 g lime per kg soil, whereas the gypsum requirement for maximum grain yield was 1.43 g per kg of soil. Lime significantly improved soil pH, exchangeable soil calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) contents, base saturation, and effective cation exchange capacity (ECEC). However, lime application significantly decreased total acidity [hydrogen (H) + aluminum (Al)], zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) contents of the soil. The decrease in these soil properties was associated with increase in soil pH. Gypsum application significantly increased exchangeable soil Ca, base saturation, and ECEC. However, gypsum did not change pH and total acidity (H + Al) significantly. Adequate soil acidity indices established for maximum grain yield with the application of lime were pH 5.5, Ca 1.8 cmol_c kg^?1, Mg 0.66 cmol_c kg^?1, base saturation 53%, Ca saturation 35%, and Mg saturation 13%. Soybean plants tolerated acidity (H + Al) up to 2.26 cmol_c kg^?1 soil. In the case of gypsum, maximum grain yield was obtained at exchangeable Ca content of 2.12 cmol_c kg^?1, base saturation of 56%, and Ca saturation of 41%.     

Liming and Copper Fertilization in Dry Bean Production on an Oxisol in No-tillage System

ABSTRACT

A field study was conducted with the objective of determining response of dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) to liming and copper (Cu) fertilization applied to an Oxisol. The lime rates used were 0, 12, and 24 Mg ha^?1 and Cu rates were 0, 2.5, 5, 10, 20, and 40 kg Cu ha^?1. Liming significantly increased common bean grain yield. Liming also significantly influenced soil chemical properties in the top (0–10 cm) as well as in the sub (10–20 cm) soil layer in favor of higher bean yield. Application of Cu did not influence yield of bean significantly. Average soil chemical properties across two soil layers (0–10 and 10–20 cm) for maximum bean yield were pH 6.4, calcium (Ca), 4.2 cmol_c kg^?1, magnesium (Mg) 1.0 cmol_c kg^?1, H+Al 3.2 cmol_c kg^?1, acidity saturation 40.4%, cation exchange capacity (CEC) 8.9 cmol_c kg^?1, base saturation 63.1%, Ca saturation 45.7%, Mg saturation 18.0%, and Potassium (K) saturation 2.9.     

Yield,Nutrient Uptake,and Soil Chemical Properties as Influenced by Liming and Boron Application in Common Bean in a No‐Tillage System

Abstract

In Oxisols, acidity is the principal limiting factor for crop production. In recent years, because of intensive cropping on these soils, deficiency of micronutrients is increasing. A field experiment was conducted on an Oxisol during three consecutive years to assess the response of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) under a no‐tillage system to varying rates of lime (0, 12, and 24 Mg ha^?1) and boron (0, 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, and 24 kg ha^?1) application. Both time and boron (B) were applied as broadcast and incorporated into the soil at the beginning of the study. Changes in selected soil chemical properties in the soil profile (0- to 10‐ and 10- to 20‐cm depths) with liming were also determined. During all three years, gain yields increased significantly with the application of lime. However, B application significantly increased common bean yield in only the first crop. Only lime application significantly affected the soil chemical properties [pH; calcium (Ca²⁺); magnesium (Mg²⁺); hydrogen (H⁺)+ aluminum (Al³⁺); base saturation; acidity saturation; cation exchange capacity (CEC); percent saturation of Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, and potassium (K⁺); and ratios of exchangeable Ca/Mg, Ca/K, and Mg/K] at both soil depths (0–10 cm and 10–20 cm). A positive significant association was observed between grain yield and soil chemical properties. Averaged across two depths and three crops, common bean produced maximum grain yield at soil pH_w of 6.7, exchangeable (cmol_c kg^?1) of Ca²⁺ 4.9, Mg²⁺ 2.2, H⁺+Al³⁺ 2.6, acidity saturation of 27.6%, CEC of 4.1 cmol_c kg^?1, base saturation of 72%, Ca saturation of 53.2%, Mg saturation of 17.6%, K saturation of 2.7%, Ca/Mg ratio of 2.8, Ca/K ratio of 25.7, and Mg/K ratio of 8.6. Soil organic matter did not change significantly with addition of lime.     

Yield and Yield Components of Dry Bean Genotypes as Influenced by Phosphorus Fertilization

Dry bean is an important legume for South American population, and phosphorus (P) deficiency is the most yield-limiting nutrient for crop production in South American soils. A greenhouse experiment was conducted with the objective of evaluating influence of P fertilization on grain yield and yield components of 30 dry bean genotypes. The P levels used were 0 mg P kg^?1 (natural level of the soil) and 200 mg P kg^?1 applied with triple superphosphate fertilizer. Yield and yield components were significantly influenced with P as well as genotype treatments. The P?×?genotype interactions were significant for yield as well as yield components, indicating different responses of genotypes at two P levels. Root dry weight and maximum root length were also significantly increased with the addition of P fertilization. There were also significant differences among the genotypes in the growth of root system. Based on grain yield efficiency index (GYEI), genotypes were classified as P efficient, moderately efficient, and inefficient. Among 30 genotypes, 17 were classified as efficient, 12 were classified as moderately efficient, and 1 was classified as inefficient. Yield components such as pods per plant and seeds per pod were having significant positive association with grain yield. In addition, grain harvest index (GHI) was also having significant linear association with grain yield. Hence, it is possible to improve grain yield of dry bean in Brazilian Oxisol with the addition of adequate rate of P fertilization as well as use of P-efficient genotypes.     

Nutrient Uptake and Use Efficiency of Dry Bean in Tropical Lowland Soil

Dry bean is an important source of protein for the population of South America, and yield of this legume is very low in this continent. Knowledge of nutrient uptake and use efficiency of a crop is fundamental to improve yield. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to evaluate growth, nutrient uptake, and use efficiency of dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L., cv. BRS Valente) during the growth cycle. Plant samples were collected at 15, 30, 45, 60, 73, and 94 days after sowing. Root dry weight, maximum root length, shoot dry weight, and number of trifoliates were significantly increased in a quadratic fashion with the advancement of plant age. Root dry weight and number of trifoliates had significant positive association with shoot dry weight. Uptake of nutrients in the grain was in the order of nitrogen (N) > potassium (K) > calcium (Ca) > magnesium (Mg) > phosphorus (P) > iron (Fe) > manganese (Mn) > zinc (Zn) > copper (Cu). Hence, it can be concluded the N requirements for bean is greatest and Cu is minimal compared to other essential nutrients for grain yield. Uptake efficiency for root, shoot, and grain production was in the order of P > Mg > Ca > K > N > Cu > Zn > Mn > Fe. The greatest P-use efficiency among macro- and micronutrients can be considered a positive aspect of mineral nutrition of bean, because recovery efficiency of P in acidic Inceptsols is less than 20%.     

Efficiency of Magnesium Use by Common Bean Varieties Regarding Yield,Physiological Components,and Nutritional Status of Plants

The magnesium (Mg) use efficiency in the selection of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) varieties may contribute to increased nutritional status and grain yield. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess common bean varieties following the application of Mg regarding productivity (yield), soil fertility, physiological components, and nutritional status. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design in a 5 × 2 factorial scheme with three replicates. Five common bean varieties [BRS Estilo, IPR Tangará, IPR Campos Gerais (CG), IAPAR 81, and BRS Ametista] supplemented with two Mg concentrations [low (0 mg kg^?1) and high (100 mg kg^?1)] using magnesium chloride (MgCl₂) as a source in an Ustoxix Quatzipsamment were assessed. The yield of shoot dry weight (SDW) and grains varied significantly between varieties and Mg rates. The high Mg concentration has negatively affected the yield of SDW and grains of variety IPR Tangará, and the opposite was observed for the other varieties. The physiological components associated with photosynthesis are directly related to the yield of SDW and grains. The concentrations of phosphorus (P), calcium (Ca), sulfur (S), and boron (B) in leaves and of S, B, iron (Fe), and manganese (Mn) in grains differed among the varieties and interactions of rates and varieties for B, indicating the presence of genetic factors in nutrient uptake.     

Long-Term Effect of Lime,Mycorrhiza, and Inorganic and Organic Sources on Soil Fertility,Yield, and Proximate Composition of Sweet Potato in Alfisols of Eastern India

A field experiment was conducted for five kharif seasons (2006–2011) in an Alfisol to study the effect of integrated use of lime, mycorrhiza, and inorganic and organics on soil fertility, yield, and proximate composition of sweet potato. Application of graded doses of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) significantly increased the mean tuber yield of sweet potato by 44, 106, and 130 percent over control. Green manuring along with ½ NPK showed greater yield response over that of ½ NPK. The greatest mean tuber yield was recorded due to integrated application of lime, farmyard manure (FYM), NPK, and MgSO₄ (13.69 t ha^?1) over the other treatments. Inoculation of mycorrhiza combined with lime, FYM, and NPK showed a significant yield response of 10 percent over FYM + NPK. Conjunctive use of lime, inorganics, and organics not only produces sustainable crop yields but also improve soil fertility, nutrient-use efficiency, and apparent nutrient recovery in comparison to NPK and organic manures.     

Influence of Biomass Partitioning and Nutrient Uptake on Yield of Arecanut Grown on a Laterite Soil

The present investigation was conducted on a laterite soil to study biomass partitioning and nutrient-uptake pattern in the aboveground parts of arecanut palm and their relationships to yield. Total biomass production was significantly greater in high-yielding plants (43.6 kg palm^?1) than in low-yielding plants (30.8 kg palm^?1). Total standing biomass of trunk accounted for 69–74% of the total aboveground biomass in arecanut palm. Dry-matter partitioning to kernel was only 4–10% of the total biomass. The uptake of major nutrients varied significantly between low- and high-yielding plants. Calcium (Ca) uptake was greater by trunk than by other parts, while magnesium (Mg) accumulation was similar in trunk and leaf. The uptake of micronutrients by aboveground parts except leaf was significantly different between low- and high-yielding plants. The present study indicated that combined effect of greater biomass production and nutrient uptake had direct impact on marketable yield of arecanut.     

Effect of Primary Biomethanated Spentwash on Soil Properties,Nutrient Uptake,and Yield of Wheat on Sodic Soil

The experiment on the effect of primary biomethanated spentwash (PBSW) on soil properties, nutrient uptake and yield of wheat on sodic soil was carried out at a research farm of Post Graduate Institute, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, Maharashtra state, India, during the post-monsoon season. The experimental soil was sodic calcareous having Sawargaon series of isohyperthermic family of Vertic Haplustepts. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with nine treatments and three replications. The treatments consisted of varying doses of PBSW (100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 m³ ha^?1), absolute control, farmyard manure (FYM) 5 t ha^?1 + RDF-AST (recommended dose of fertilizer as per soil test), FYM 5 t ha^?1 + 50% GR (gypsum requirement) + RDF-AST and FYM 5 t ha^?1 + 100% GR + RDF-AST. The results revealed that the physical properties, namely bulk density and hydraulic conductivity, were improved in sodic soil due to the application of increased doses of PBSW. A significant reduction in pH, calcium carbonate and exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) and an increase in organic carbon, cation-exchange capacity (CEC) and electrical conductivity (EC) were observed in the soil, due to the addition of PBSW. The available soil nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K) and micronutrient iron, manganese, copper and zinc (Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn) content after the harvest of wheat was the highest in the 500 m³ ha^?1 treatment compared with all the other treatments. The exchangeable calcium (Ca²⁺), magnesium (Mg²⁺) increased significantly and exchangeable Sodium (Na⁺) reduced significantly with increased doses of PBSW. The saturation paste extract analysis also showed the same trend. A significant increase in the EC of the saturation paste of extract of the soil was observed in all PBSW treatments and it was the highest (4.75 dS m^?1) in PBSW application @ 500 m³ ha^?1. The application of PBSW @ 500, 400, 300 and 200 m³ ha^?1 resembled the treatments of FYM + gypsum @ 100 GR + RDF-AST, FYM + gypsum @ 50 GR + RDF-AST and FYM + RDF-AST, respectively, regarding the biological properties of sodic soil. The PBSW application @ 500 m³ ha^?1 had recorded the highest grain (47.33 q ha^?1) and straw (72.72 q ha^?1) yield and the maximum total uptake of N, P, K, Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn by wheat, which was at par with the treatment of FYM (5 t ha^?1) + gypsum @ 100% GR + RDF-AST.     

Physical,Chemical, and Biological Changes in the Rhizosphere and Nutrient Availability

The rhizosphere is the soil zone adjacent to plant roots which is physically, chemically, and biologically different from bulk or non-rhizosphere soil. Adaptative mechanisms of plants influence physical (temperature, water availability, and structure), chemical [pH, redox potential, nutrient concentration, root exudates, aluminum (Al) detoxification and allelopathy], and biological properties (microbial association) in the rhizosphere. These changes affect nutrient solubility, transport, and uptake and ultimately plant growth. Major rhizosphere changes are synthesized and their influence on nutrient availability is discussed. In the last decade, significant progress has been made in understanding the rhizosphere environment and nutrient availability. However, the subject matter is very complex and more research is needed to understand the interaction between the plant, the rhizosphere environment, and nutrient availability.     

Agronomic Evaluation of Manure Ashes: Changes in Soil Phosphorus Fractions,Maize (Zea mays) Yield,and Phosphorus Uptake

ABSTRACT

In order to reduce bulkiness and concentrate its nutrients, manures were burnt to ashes, and the effect of manures and their ashes on soil phosphorus fractions and maize performance in laboratory incubation, screenhouse, and field experiments was evaluated. Treatments were control, dried poultry manure (DPM), poultry manure ash, dried cattle manure (DCM), cattle manure ash (CMA), dried goat manure, goat manure ash and NPK 15-15-15, each applied at 120 kg P ha^?1. Periodic data were taken from soil P fractions, maize yield, and P uptake. Results showed that manures and their ashes increased soil P fractions in incubation, screenhouse, and field experiments. Available P and Ca-P increased with application of DPM while CMA only increased labile P, Al-P, and Fe-P at later weeks. Dry matter yield and P uptake increased with the application of manures and ashes while available P was positively correlated with P uptake. The impact of manure ashes was comparable to manures, hence recommended for use as alternatives, thereby getting rid of the problems of manure bulkiness and offensive odors.     

Soil Chemical Properties and Nutrient Composition of Cocoyam Grown in an Organically Fertilized Soil

ABSTRACT

Field experiments were conducted for two consecutive years to evaluate the influence of cow dung and rice husk application rates on soil chemical properties and nutrient composition of cocoyam cormels. The treatments comprised four rates each of cow dung and rice husk (0, 10, 20, and 30 t/ha) arranged as a factorial experiment using randomized complete block design with three replicates. The treatments were incorporated into the soil 2 weeks before planting of cocoyam each year. After 2 years of cropping, soil samples were collected from the respective plots and analyzed so also cocoyam cormels. Cow dung application positively and significantly (P < .05) affected soil pH, organic matter (OM), and the soil nutrients (r = 0.95, 0.98, and 0.94–1.00, respectively) while rice husk application significantly and positively influenced soil OM, nitrogen and phosphorus (r = 0.98, 0.95, and 0.98, respectively). Aside potassium content that was enhanced, cow dung application did not significantly affect the nutrient composition of the cocoyam cormels. However, 30 t/ha of applied rice husk caused significant reduction in crude protein and fiber contents but significant increase in carbohydrate. There was negative and significant correlation between rice husk and the cormels crude protein (r = ?0.97). A total of 20 t/ha each of the organic fertilizers was found to be optimum for improving soil fertility and invariably yield without compromising the nutrient content of the cocoyam cormels.     

Influence of Liming on Soil Chemical Properties and Plant Growth of Pineapple (Ananas Comusus L.Merr.) On Red Acid Soil,Lampung, Indonesia

ABSTRACT

Red acid soil is generally distributed in humid tropical areas under high rainfall. The main constraint is usually the extremely low pH of the soil due to the very intensive leaching of the bases from the soil. At the same time, however, the soluble micro elements, such as iron, are high. This can cause plant toxicity. The liming of acidic soils is normally performed to reduce the iron toxicity as the first step toward providing a balanced nutrition for cultivated plants. The objective of this study is to determine the effects of liming on the soil pH, on the decrease of iron in the soil and on the growth of the pineapple. The research was done in the Greenhouse of the Research and Development Department, PT Great Giant Pineapple, Lampung, Indonesia, from November 2015 to April 2016. The design of the experiment was arranged as a completely randomized design with seven treatments and three replications, consisting of: No dolomite (D0), dolomite 1 t ha^?1 (D1), dolomite 2 t ha^?1 (D2), dolomite 3 t ha^?1 (D3), dolomite 4 t ha^?1 (D4), dolomite 5 t ha^?1 (D5) with added Fe-EDTA and for the control treatment, no dolomite and no Fe-EDTA (C0). The results showed that an increase in the dolomite dose can increase the pH, potassium (K), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) in the soil and can decrease the iron (Fe) in the soil significantly. Increasing the pH, K, Ca and Mg and decreasing the Fe in the soil were seen to influence the growth of the pineapple. In particular, the leaf area of the pineapple plant increased considerably. The other parameters also increased, but not significantly.     

Seasonal Biomass Accumulation and Nutrient Uptake of Canola,Mustard, and Flax on a Black Chernozem Soil in Saskatchewan

ABSTRACT

Seed yield and nutrient use efficiency are related to biomass accumulation and nutrient uptake in the growing season. Biomass accumulation and nutrient uptake of canola (Brassica napus L. and Brassica rapa L.), mustard (Brassica juncea L.) and flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) and the relationship to days after emergence (DAE) or growing degree days (GDD) were determined during the 1998 and 1999 growing seasons in field experiments at Melfort, Saskatchewan, Canada. In general, biomass accumulation and nutrient uptake increased with time at early growth stages and reached a maximum at late growth stages. Significant R² values for both biomass accumulation and nutrient uptake indicated that a cubic polynomial type equation was suitable to represent these parameters as a function of DAE. All oilseed crops maximized biomass at mid way to the end of pod forming stages (74–84 DAE or 750–973 GDD). Maximum biomass accumulation rate occurred at the early to late bud forming stage (42–49 DAE or 390–498 GDD), and it was 146–190 kg ha^?1d^?1 for canola, 158–182 kg ha^?1d^?1 for mustard, and 174–189 kg ha^?1d^?1 for flax. Maximum nutrient uptake occurred during flowering to early ripening (59–82 DAE or 597–945 GDD). Maximum nutrient uptake rate normally occurred at branching to early bud formation (21–42 DAE or 142–399 GDD). There was a close correlation between biomass accumulation and nutrient uptake, and among nutrients, suggesting interrelated absorption. For nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sulfur (S), and boron (B), respectively, maximum nutrient uptake rate was 2.3–4.5, 0.3–0.5, 2.5–5.7, 0.7–1.1, and 0.005–0.008 kg ha^?1d^?1 for canola; 2.3–3.9, 0.4–0.5, 2.6–4.9, 1.2–1.4, and 0.006–0.008 kg ha^?1d^?1 for mustard; and 3.2–4.0, 0.3–0.4, 2.9–4.1, 0.3–0.5, and 0.004–0.009 kg ha^?1d^?1 for flax. In general, maximum nutrient uptake rate and amount occurred earlier than maximum biomass accumulation rate and amount, and maximum rates of both nutrient uptake and biomass accumulation occurred earlier than their maximum amounts. The findings suggest that for high seed yields, there should be adequate supply of nutrients for plants, particularly to sustain high nutrient uptake rate at branching to bud forming stage and high biomass accumulation rate at early to late bud forming stage.     

Seasonal Biomass Accumulation and Nutrient Uptake of Pea and Lentil on a Black Chernozem Soil in Saskatchewan

ABSTRACT

Close relationships usually exist among biomass accumulation, nutrient uptake, and seed yield during the growing season. Field experiments with pea (Pisum sativum L.) and lentil (Lens cultinaris L.) were conducted in 1998 and 1999 at Melfort, Saskatchewan, Canada, to determine relationships of biomass accumulation and nutrient uptake with days after emergence (DAE) or growing degree days (GDD). For both biomass accumulation and nutrient uptake, maximum rates and amounts increased with time at early growth stages and reached a maximum value at late growth stages. The R² values for cubic polynomial regressions were highly significant, indicating their suitability to estimate the progression of biomass accumulation and nutrient uptake as a function of days after emergence (DAE). Both pulse crops followed a similar pattern in biomass accumulation and nutrient uptake, which increased in the early growth stages and reached a maximum late in the growth cycle. Pulse crops usually reached their maximum biomass accumulation rate and amount at early to late bud formation (42–56 DAE or 390–577 GDD) and at medium pod formation to early seed filling (75–82 DAE or 848–858 GDD) growth stages, respectively. Maximum biomass accumulation rate was 175–215 kg ha^{? 1}d^?1 for pea and 109–140 kg ha^{? 1}d^{? 1} for lentil. Maximum nutrient uptake rate and amount usually occurred at branching to early bud formation (28–49 DAE or 206–498 GDD) and at the flowering to seed filling (66–85 DAE or 672–986 GDD) growth stages, respectively. Maximum uptake rate of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and sulfur (S), respectively, was 4.6–4.9, 0.4–0.5, 5.0–5.3 and 0.3 kg ha^{? 1}d^{? 1} for pea, and 2.4–3.8, 0.2–0.3, 2.0–3.4 and 0.2 kg ha^{? 1}d^{? 1} for lentil. In general, maximum nutrient uptake rate and amount occurred earlier than maximum biomass accumulation rate and amount, respectively; and the maximum accumulation rates of both biomass and nutrients occurred earlier than maximum amounts. The findings suggest that adequate supply of nutrients from soil and fertilizers at early growth stages, and translocation of biomass and nutrients to seed at later growth stages are of great importance for high seed yield of pulse crops.     

Soil pH Changes from Fertilizer Site as Affected by Application of Monocalcium Phosphate and Potassium Chloride

A laboratory incubation experiment using soil columns was conducted to study the effects of monocalcium phosphate (MCP) and potassium chloride (KCl) on soil pH changes in fertilizer microsites with two Chinese soils. Mixtures of two fertilizers at two rates (0 and 0.26 g per column) were added to the surface of soil cylinders. The results shown that both fertilizers significantly decreased soil pH after 7 d and 28 d, which declined with time and distance from fertilizer site. Compared with KCl alone, the soil pH decrease close to the fertilizer site induced by applied KCl was slowed down in the acidic red soil by MCP addition but was promoted in the calcareous soil. Compared with MCP alone, the application of KCl with MCP had greater effects of reducing pH in both soils. The magnitude and extent of soil pH changes were mostly contributed by KCl in the KCl plus MCP treatment.     

Growth,yield and yield components of dry bean as influenced by phosphorus in a tropical acid soil

Phosphorus (P) deficiency is one of the most yield limiting factors for dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) production in tropical acid soils. Dry beans are invariably grown as mono-crops or as inter-crops under the perennial tropical crops. Information is limited regarding the influence of phosphorus fertilization on dry bean yield and yield components and P use efficiency in tropical acid soils. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to evaluate the influence of phosphorus fertilization on dry bean growth, yield and yield components and P uptake parameters. Phosphorus rates used were 0, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 mg P kg^?1 of soil. Soil used in the experiment was an acidic Inceptisol. Grain yield, shoot dry weight, number of pods, and 100 grain weight were significantly (P < 0.01) increased with phosphorus fertilization. Maximum grain yield, shoot dry matter, number of pods, and 100 grain weight were obtained with the application of 165, 216, 162, and 160 mg P kg^?1 of soil, respectively, as calculated by regression equations. Grain yield was significantly and positively associated with shoot dry weight, number of pods, P concentration in grain and total uptake of P in shoot and grain. Phosphorus use efficiency defined in several ways, decreased with increasing P rates from 50 to 250 mg P kg^?1 of soil. Maximum grain yield was obtained at 82 mg kg^?1 of Mehlich 1 extractable soil P. Results suggest that dry bean yield in Brazilian Inceptisols could be significantly increased with the use of adequate rates of phosphorus fertilization.     

Microbial Dynamics,Root Colonization,and Nutrient Availability as Influenced by Inoculation of Liquid Bioinoculants in Cultivars of Apple Seedlings

The present study investigates the performance of recommended doses of chemical fertilizer (RDF) and locally isolated strains of Azotobacter, Azospirillum, and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inoculated either solely or in combination with seedlings of Red Delicious and Lal Ambri cultivars. The RDF (T₇) treatment recorded significantly greater vegetative growth and leaf nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) contents over multi-inoculation of Azotobacter + Azospirillum + AMF (T₆) but root colonization and microbial counts decreased significantly. Inoculation of Azotobacter + Azospirillum + AMF (T₆) was superior over sole and dual inoculation with respect to vegetative growth and nutrient contents in leaves and soil but had significant greater counts of Azotobacter, Azospirillum, and Pseudomonas than RDF. Greatest root colonization (34.0 and 35.1%) was recorded in Azotobacter + Azospirillum + AMF (T₆) followed by AMF (T₄) treatment (29.3 and 32.0%) in Red Delicious and Lal Ambri seedlings, respectively. Overall, it can be inferred that multiinoculation of synergistically interacting bioinoculants may be helpful in the establishment of healthy organic apple orchards.     

Effect of Vermicompost and Chemical Fertilizer on Growth,Herb, Oil Yield,Nutrient Uptake,Soil Fertility,and Oil Quality of Rosemary

Essential oil of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) possesses good olfactory properties and is suitable for use in perfumes, soaps, and fragrances. Field experiments were conducted for 2 years (2003?2005) in an area experiencing a semi-arid tropical climate to study the influence of vermicompost and chemical fertilizer on growth, herb, oil yield, nutrient uptake, soil fertility, and oil quality of rosemary. Results from the experiment revealed that among the seven treatments, the application of vermicompost (8 t ha^?1) + fertilizer nitrogen (N)?phosphorus (P)??potassium (K) (150:25:25 kg ha^?1) produced optimum herbage and oil yield of rosemary compared with control (no fertilizer) and was found to be on par with application of fertilizer NPK 300:50:50 kg ha^?1. Content and quality of oil were not influenced by vermicompost and chemical fertilizers. Furthermore, it was noticed that available N and P were greater in postharvest soils that received vermicompost alone or in combination with inorganic fertilizers than control (no fertilizer) and inorganic fertilizer?treated soil. This study indicates that combined application of vermicompost and chemical fertilizer helps to increase crop productivity and sustain the soil fertility.     

Soil Chemical Attributes and Grape Yield as Affected by Gypsum Application in Southern Brazil

Yields of many crops are limited to subsoil acidity. Crop positive responses to gypsum have been shown, however, information regarding the use of gypsum in vine is scarce. A field trial was performed in Paraná State, Brazil, on a clayey Rhodic Hapludox to evaluate the effects of gypsum application (0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 Mg ha^?1) on soil chemical attributes and grape (cv. ‘Niagara Rosada’) yield. Gypsum was surface applied in July 2005 and the soil and plant evaluations were realized during the years of 2006 and 2007. Gypsum decreased the subsoil exchangeable aluminum (Al) level, increased the calcium (Ca) and sulfate (SO₄) contents in the soil profile, and caused leaching of magnesium (Mg) from the topsoil. The leached Mg resulted in decreases of leaf Mg concentrations and fruit production. The researchers estimated a critical level of Ca/Mg ratio in soil as well as in leaves of 1.9 for vine.