Effect of band spacing of urea on dry matter and crude protein yield of bromegrass

Abstract

Microplot experiments were conducted at two locations (Lacombe and Eckville) in central Alberta to evaluate methods of application of urea (60 kg N ha⁻¹) on established meadow bromegrass (Bromus biebersteinii L. cv Regar). Urea was surface broadcast and banded 4 cm deep into soil at four row-spacings (15, 22.5, 30 and 37.5 cm). The dry matter and crude protein yield were generally greatest in plots when urea was banded at 15 cm spacing. There was a general decrease in dry matter yield, particularly with the first cut at the Lacombe site when urea was banded at more than 15 cm spacing. The dry matter yield, crude protein yield and crude protein concentration were significantly greater in grass adjacent to the banded fertilizer than in grass from the area midway between the bands at the Lacombe site.