Summary
This field trial investigated the use of 15N stable isotope labelling applied to cover crops as a method to quantify nitrogen availability to and uptake by a subsequent maize crop. The work addresses the practical feasibility of early fertilisation timing and cover crop nitrogen contribution to cereal nutrition, combining agronomic performance with isotopic tracing. As suggested by the methodology, the findings contribute to understanding cover crop function in rotational systems and optimising nitrogen management in maize production.
Regional applicability
This research was conducted in Brazil under subtropical/tropical conditions and primarily reflects systems relevant to South American maize production. Transferability to United Kingdom conditions would depend on soil type, climate, and cover crop species used; UK practitioners would need to evaluate whether the cover crop species, soil conditions, and nitrogen dynamics observed transfer to cooler, temperate climates with different growing seasons.
Key measures
15N isotopic abundance, nitrogen recovery, nitrogen uptake by maize, nitrogen transfer from cover crop to subsequent cereal crop
Outcomes reported
The study examined the feasibility of applying 15N-labelled nitrogen fertiliser to cover crops preceding maize to track nitrogen dynamics and transfer. It assessed nitrogen availability, uptake, and utilisation efficiency in the maize crop following cover crop incorporation.
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