Fate of Nitrates in Field Nursery Production Systems
Nitrogen (N) fertilization is an integral part of managing field nursery production. However, growers must manage additions properly in order to optimize growth efficiency and avoid environmental impacts. In particular, leaching of nitrates below the crop root zone and into ground water is an increasing concern. Historically, field nurseries have often been located in areas with coarse-textured soils to facilitate seedling lifting and other nursery operations. These soils typically have low nutrient-holding capacities requiring frequent N inputs that may be subject to leaching. This paper will review the principle inputs and outputs in the N cycle of a typical nursery and the environmental concerns associated with nitrate leaching. We will discuss the results of our case studies of nitrate movement in field nursery systems in western Michigan and suggest management practices that growers may adopt to improve N use efficiency and reduce environmental impacts.
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Author(s): Bert M. Cregg, Carmela Rios, James Hart, Deana Briggs
Publication: National Nursery Proceedings - 2003
Event:
Western Forest and Conservation Nursery Association Meeting
2003 - Coeur d"Alene, ID
