Associated cropping of beans and maize VII - A comparison of fertilization practices with mineral fertilizer

Abstract

At Coimbra and Ponte Nova, MG, Brazil, fertilization practices with mineral fertilizer were compared in the associated cropping of maize (M), rainy season beans (RB), and dry season beans (DB). Treatments include no fertilization or the fertilization of one, two, and the three crops. M was planted in rows one meter apart, with a planting density equivalent to 30,000 plants/ha. RB were planted within the M rows or in one line between the M rows. DB were planted in rows half meter apart, i.e., two rows between the M rows. The planting density for RB and DB was 10 - 15 seeds per meter. The fertilization of any one of the crops was 30 - 80 - 30kg/ha of N - P₂O₅ - K₂O plus 40kg/ha of N as side dressing. It was concluded that a crop can take advantage, with some efficiency, of the fertilizer applied to another crop: however, the direct fertilization of each crop was much more effective. The planting of RB within the M rows was more advantageous, because it permitted fertilizer economy. DB responded to fertilization better than RB.