Nitrogen fertilization time affects the root reserves of tropical grasses

ABSTRACT Grass regrowth can reduce root mass, delaying reestablishment and grazing periods by reducing the nutrient absorption from soil plants. This study aimed to determine optimal intervals for harvest nitrogen fertilization in Urochloa brizantha cv. BRS Piatã Megathyrsus maximus Quênia, as well investigate whether flexibility of time is related accumulation water-soluble carbohydrates (WSC) roots. The experiment was conducted a greenhouse, using completely randomized design, with five treatments (nitrogen after harvest: 0, 2, 4, 6 8 days) ten replicates. linearly reduced forage mass Piatã, but had no effect on Quênia guinea grass. For WSC starch concentrations roots showed quadratic response, decreasing day 2 increasing until 8. However, delayed led linear reduction content. concentration immediately improves masses, reserves. In contrast, exhibited greater flexibility, concerning time. interval between primarily depended which influences