Maize (Zea mays, L.) is not only the main crop in the intensively cultivated Po Plain (Northern Italy), but also the one that produces the largest N Surplus. This study is based on experimental data from the Tetto Frati long-term trial (Turin, NW Italy) to demonstrate that the impact on soil and water quality of high-yielding, maize-based cropping systems can be reduced through proper management. Nitrogen use efficiency and loss indicators were calculated and compared among various management options: (i) maize monoculture at high N fertilizer rates for grain production (most widespread management), (ii) entire plant (with straw) harvest, (iii) double-cropping system with a winter crop, (iv) maize–grass ley rotation, and (v) change in fertilizer type. The entire maize plant removal reduced N leaching by 10–20%; however, carbon sequestration was also reduced. A maize–Italian ryegrass double cropping system improved the efficiency of organic fertilizers, and reduced leaching by 25–40% relative to monoculture. A rotation with grass ley reduced N impact only when fertilized with urea, and not when organic fertilizers were used. Urea, slurry, and farmyard manure were equally utilized by the crop; if distributed and incorporated just before sowing, both organic fertilizers built up the soil organic matter content and reduced N leaching by 20–50% with respect to urea. This study has shown that farmers in NW Italy have several opportunities to continue cultivate maize thus accomplishing agri-environmental legislation.

Options to reduce N loss from maize in intensive cropping systems in Northern Italy.

ZAVATTARO, Laura;MONACO, Stefano;SACCO, Dario;GRIGNANI, Carlo
2012-01-01

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays, L.) is not only the main crop in the intensively cultivated Po Plain (Northern Italy), but also the one that produces the largest N Surplus. This study is based on experimental data from the Tetto Frati long-term trial (Turin, NW Italy) to demonstrate that the impact on soil and water quality of high-yielding, maize-based cropping systems can be reduced through proper management. Nitrogen use efficiency and loss indicators were calculated and compared among various management options: (i) maize monoculture at high N fertilizer rates for grain production (most widespread management), (ii) entire plant (with straw) harvest, (iii) double-cropping system with a winter crop, (iv) maize–grass ley rotation, and (v) change in fertilizer type. The entire maize plant removal reduced N leaching by 10–20%; however, carbon sequestration was also reduced. A maize–Italian ryegrass double cropping system improved the efficiency of organic fertilizers, and reduced leaching by 25–40% relative to monoculture. A rotation with grass ley reduced N impact only when fertilized with urea, and not when organic fertilizers were used. Urea, slurry, and farmyard manure were equally utilized by the crop; if distributed and incorporated just before sowing, both organic fertilizers built up the soil organic matter content and reduced N leaching by 20–50% with respect to urea. This study has shown that farmers in NW Italy have several opportunities to continue cultivate maize thus accomplishing agri-environmental legislation.
2012
147
24
35
L. Zavattaro; S. Monaco; D. Sacco; C. Grignani
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/2318/89495
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