Influence of Organic Matter on Nitrogen Mineralization Pattern in Soils under Different Moisture Regimes

• Published in: International journal of agriculture and biology 2013-02, Vol.15 (1)
• Main Authors: Rahman, M Habibur, Islam, M Rafiqul, Jahiruddin, M, Puteh, Adam B, M Monjurul Alam Mondal
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Agriculture; Sesbania aculeata
• ISSN: 1560-8530; 1814-9596

Application of organic residues returns mineral nutrients to the soil. The conversion of organic N, P and S to available forms occurs through the activity of microorganisms and is influenced by those factors (temperature, moisture, pH etc.) affecting microbial activity. A study was made to examine the mineralization pattern of nitrogen (N) from different sources of organic matter. Mineralization was studied by an incubation experiment with farmyard manure, dhaincha (Sesbania aculeata) and mungbean residues applied at two rates (2.5 and 5 t ha-1) under two moisture levels (saturated and field capacity condition) over 12 weeks of incubation at 30 degree C in an artificial incubation room at Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA). Soils from Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) farm, Mymensingh and On-Farm Research Division (OFRD) farm, Rangpur were used. The release of N with the amended soils increased progressively and attained a peak within 4 to 7 weeks of incubation for both the moisture regimes. The maximum amount of 64-91% N was released depending on the types of manure, rates of application and moisture level. In both soils, mineralization potential of N was higher under saturated soil condition. Mineralization of N was influenced by incubation period, rate of organic materials application, moisture regime and type of soil. So, before using different sources of organic manures and crop residues in the field due consideration should be given on their mineralization and nutrient release pattern of those organic materials. [copy 2013 Friends Science Publishers