Influence of Slow- or Fast-Release Nitrogen in Xaraés Grass under Tropical Conditions

Abstract

Nitrogen (N) is a nutrient used worldwide in pasture fertilization. However, it is a very volatile element. Furthermore, inappropriate use promotes environmental pollution and economic losses. The present study was carried out to evaluate the effects of the N source on the productivity and N utilization efficiency in Xaraés grass (Brachiaria brizantha cv. Xaraés) under tropical conditions. The randomized complete block design was used in a 3 × 2 × 4 factorial scheme: three seasons (rainy, dry, and transition), two N sources (fast-release = conventional urea, and slow-release = treated urea), and four N doses (0, 80, 160, and 240 kg N/ha/year). Forage accumulation per day differed (p < 0.0001) with the season and N dose. The interaction between those showed a positive linear effect (p < 0.0001) during the rainy season and transition. With increasing N doses, there was a linear increase in annual dry matter production and N accumulation. However, the N utilization efficiency (p < 0.0001) was reduced. Nitrogen sources did not affect forage accumulation and N utilization efficiency. Therefore, it is not recommended to replace fast-release nitrogen fertilization (conventional urea source) with a urease inhibitor (slow-release N source), promoting benefits with lower production costs.

La activación de áreas con césped (jardín) contra el calentamiento ambiental y reducción de CO2: una guía práctica

“…Esto obedece a que existen en las zonas urbanas las llamadas "áreas verdes", como la que se muestra en la Figura 1. Es una constante encontrar estas áreas que carecen de todo mantenimiento y que con una aplicación sencilla de riego y nitrógeno (urea) se pueden reactivar (Rodríguez, 2023).…”