Nutrient Management Research Database
General Information
Research Title
Lettuce Response to Phosphorus Fertilization in High Phosphorus Soils
Link to File
Research Specifications
Crop: Lettuce
Soil Type: clay, clay loam, sandy loam, silty clay loam, loam
County, State: Monterey, California
Year: 2005
Authors
P.R. Johnstone, T.K. Hartz, M.D. Cahn, M.Rm Johnstone
Summary/Abstract from Original Source
Research Highlights
Design and Methods
- Twelve field trials were conducted in commercial lettuce growing operations in 2002 and 2003.
- Growers decided how to manage P fertilization in their fields. Field soil test P levels varied from 53 to 171 ppm.
- In ten field, growers applied preplant P, either broadcast or banded a part of bed formation.
- Plots with no P additions were also maintained to make comparisons.
- Plant growth was measured by plant canopy development, meaning the percent of the soil bed that was covered by the crop biomass.
- Marketable yield and total plant residue was measured.
- Total P was also measured in both harvested lettuce heads and plant residues.
Results
- P fertilization of fields with soil test P values greater than 50 ppm showed negligible responses to P fertilization.
- This value is referred to as a "threshold value." If soil test P levels are above this point, response to P fertilization is unlikely.
- The one field that did show a clear yield increase was planted in early spring, so low temperatures likely limited P availability.
- Almost all plants had P levels that were sufficient, and P fertilization did not influence plant P uptake.
- Lower temperatures were found to reduce plant available P. However, more research is required before making definitive adjustments to the soil test P threshold values.
Other Considerations
Implementing soil test P results into P management budgets can help reduce costs.
Additional Information
Tags (links to other subject matter in database)
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