A controlled-release fertilizer improved soil fertility but not olive tree performance

The use of a controlled-release fertilizer (CRF) was studied in traditional rainfed olive grove Mediterranean climate where precipitation is very irregular, particularly the spring. objective study to assess whether CRF can improve tree's performance compared conventional nitrogen (N) (CF), by supplying N gradually and reducing risk potential loss from leaching. fertilized treatments showed better plant nutritional status, which resulted enhanced net photosynthesis higher leaf concentrations total soluble sugars, chlorophylls proteins which, turn, increased yield 43% comparison unfertilized control. However, general, no significant differences were found between parameters trees evaluated, including yield. Somewhat unexpectedly, consistently soil organic carbon (C) (29%), kjeldahl-N (75%) easily extractable glomalin-related (EE-GRSP) (60%) GRSP (T-GRSP) (122%) CF. result ascribed stimulus on development herbaceous vegetation eventually activity roots due inorganic-N availability autumn. Thus, some autumn seems comprise low leaching, since weeds act as catch crop convert this inorganic into an substrate, with benefits long-term for agro-system.