Response of Congo Grass (Brachiaria ruziziensis L. Germain and Evard) to Nitrogen Fertilization on an Oxisol in Western Highlands Agro-ecological Zone of Cameroon

Abstract

In the context of climate change, sustainable fertilization management can be achieved by the use of minimum external agricultural inputs capable of generating both economic and environmental benefits. In this regard, a study conducted in western highlands agro-ecological zone of Cameroon revealed the response of Brachiaria ruziziensis (an important cover crop and forage) to a range of nitrogen levels (0, 50, 100, 150, and 200 kgN.ha-1) combined with a constant level of P2O5 (100 kgN.ha-1) and K2O (50 kg/ha) evaluated using a randomized complete block design. The findings showed that in a regularly cultivated soil, Congo grass is capable of meeting its mineral needs by searching for them in strata of the soil below the cultural profile (0-25 cm). As a result, in comparison to non-fertilized units (27.75 t.ha-1), fertilized units did not provide a significant dry matter yield (P > 0.05).Despite the lack of a significant difference, the yield increased with the addition of nitrogen until it reached 100 kg/ha, and then decreased until it reached 200 kg N.ha-1. As a result, Congo grass should be used as a biological pump, bringing lixiviated minerals to the surface to favor soil fertility replenishment and shorten fallow period.