Cover crop and nitrogen fertilizer influence on inbred maize performance and soil nitrogen

The response of inbred maize (Zea mays L.) lines to nitrogen (N) fertilizer and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata cv. Iron Clay) cover cropping was evaluated in three consecutive croppings from 2014 2016 a Guamaní (Torrifluventic Haplustepts) soil. crop rotation sequence (spring 2014), (summer (winter 2014-2015), 2015), 2015-2016) 2016). N levels were 0, 90, 135, 180 225 kg N/ha for 2014-2015 seasons, 50, 100, 150, 200 the 2015-2016 season. Soils sampled depth 90 cm before after each successive cropping. Cover did not affect yields. effect on seed yield observed two out years with optimum yields 7,034 4,708 kg/ha 135 N/ha, respectively. Residual soil tended increase due crop. A partial aboveground budget showed that net balance more positive increased level, reaching values +516 fallow +621 over 30-month period. Part excess (not taken up by crop) accounted profile. slightly greater at higher rates rotation. Cover-cropping continues be an important practice long term will result improved recycling scavenging residual or fixation. Nitrogen range can good adjusted knowledge inorganic 30 cm, yields, use efficiency reduced losses environment.