Nitrogenous and phosphatic fertilization effects on elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum, Schum.) productivity

Abstract

This experiment was conducted at IPA Itambé Experimental Station, PE, Brazil, to study the nitrogenous and phosphatic fertilization effects on elephant grass productivity. A split plot at random blocks design was used to evaluate the cutting date and the N and P fertilization effects on the elephant grass productivity. A regression analysis of each cutting and of the average cutting was done. The levels of N tested were 0; 60; 120 and 180 kg/ha of N each cutting and the P levels were 0; 60 and 120 kg/ha of P₂O₅ every three cuttings. Significant differences (P<0,05) were observed among the N levels only from the 4^th cutting; however, the P levels always showed significant differences (P<0,01) among them. The interaction between N and P was significative from the 7^th up to the 10^th cutting. The average data analysis showed significative differences (P<0,01) among the N and P levels; however, the interaction was not found. The results showed the importance of nitrogenous and phosphatic fertilization and the necessity of a balance among the nutrients to obtain a higher efficiency of this management practice.