Nitrogen during the establishment period of Mombasa grass

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of nitrogen (N) concentration during the establishment period of Mombasa grass (Panicum maximum Jacq.). The experiment was conducted using four different N concentrations (0, 30, 60 and 90 kg N/ha) during the establishment period in order to evaluate the effect of nitrogen on the plant. These effects were assessed using different indexes, including the efficiency of nitrogen use and agricultural, physiological and nutritional efficiencies. We also determined the total dry matter and nitrogen accumulation in the plant. The recovery of applied N and the agronomic efficiency of Mombasa grass were found to be greater with increasing N concentrations, and all indexes tested were found to be affected by the concentration of applied N. Based on the indexes studied, 90 kg N/ha was found to be most suitable for Mombasa grass during the establishment period.