Response of tropical turfgrasses to recycled water in southern Queensland

The effects of recycled water (effluent) on 8 tropical grasses growing in 100-L bags of sand were studied in Murrumba Downs, just north of Brisbane in southern Queensland (27.4°S, 153.1°E). The species used were: Axonopus compressus (broad-leaf carpetgrass), Cynodon dactylon (bermudagrass 'Winter Green') and C. dactylon x C. transvaalensis hybrid ('Tifgreen'), Digitaria didactyla (Queensland blue couch), Paspalum notatum (bahiagrass '38824'), Stenotaphrum secundatum (buffalograss 'Palmetto'), Eremochloa ophiuroides (centipedegrass 'Centec') and Zoysia japonica (zoysiagrass 'ZT-11'). From May 2002 to June 2003, control plots were irrigated with potable water and fertilised monthly. Plots irrigated with effluent received no fertiliser from May to August 2002 (deficient phase), complete fertilisers at control rates from September to December 2002 (recovery phase) and nitrogen (N) only at control rates from January to June 2003 (supplementary phase). In October 2002, the average shoot weight of plants from the effluent plots was 4% of that from potable plots, with centipedegrass less affected than the other species (relative growth of 20%). Shoot N concentrations declined by 40% in the effluent plots from May to August 2002 (1.8 ± 0.1%) along with phosphorus (P, 0.46 ± 0.02%), potassium (K, 1.6 ± 0.2%), sulfur (S, 0.28 ± 0.02%) and manganese (Mn, 19 ± 2 mg/kg) concentrations. Only the N and Mn concentrations were below the optimum for grasses. The grasses grew satisfactorily when irrigated with effluent if it was supplemented with N. Between January and June 2003 the average weight of shoots from the effluent plots was 116% of the weight of shoots from the control plots. Shoot nutrient concentrations were also similar in the 2 regimes at this time. The recycled water supplied 23% of the N required for maximum shoot growth, 80-100% of the P and K, and 500-880% of the S, calcium and magnesium. The use of recycled water represents savings in irrigation and fertiliser costs, and reductions in the discharge of N and P to local waterways. Effluent is currently about 50% of the cost of potable water with a saving of about AU$8000/ha.year for a typical sporting field.

Nutrient uptake in tropical turfgrasses growing in winter in southern Queensland

The effects of fertilisers on 8 tropical turfgrasses growing in 100-L bags of sand were studied over winter in Murrumba Downs, just north of Brisbane in southern Queensland (latitude 27.4°S, longitude 153.1°E). The species used were: Axonopus compressus (broad-leaf carpetgrass), Cynodon dactylon (bermudagrass 'Winter Green') and C. dactylon x C. transvaalensis hybrid ('Tifgreen'), Digitaria didactyla (Queensland blue couch), Paspalum notatum (bahiagrass '38824'), Stenotaphrum secundatum (buffalograss 'Palmetto'), Eremochloa ophiuroides (centipedegrass 'Centec') and Zoysia japonica (zoysiagrass 'ZT-11'). Control plots were fertilised with complete fertilisers every month from May to September (72 kg N/ha, 31 kg P/ha, 84 kg K/ha, 48 kg S/ha, 30 kg Ca/ha and 7.2 kg Mg/ha), and unfertilised plots received no fertiliser. Carpetgrass and standard bermudagrass were the most sensitive species to nutrient supply, with lower shoot dry weights in the unfertilised plots (shoots mowed to thatch level) compared with the fertilised plots in June. There were lower shoot dry weights in the unfertilised plots in July for all species, except for buffalograss, centipedegrass and zoysiagrass, and lower shoot dry weights in the unfertilised plots in August for all species, except for centipedegrass. At the end of the experiment in September, unfertilised plots were 11% of the shoot dry weights of fertilised plots, with all species affected. Mean shoot nitrogen concentrations fell from 3.2 to 1.7% in the unfertilised plots from May to August, below the sufficiency range for turfgrasses (2.8-3.5%). There were also declines in P (0.45-0.36%), K (2.4-1.5%), S (0.35-0.25%), Mg (0.24-0.18%) and B (9-6 mg/kg), which were all in the sufficiency range. The shoots in the control plots took up the following levels (kg/ha.month) of nutrients: N, 10.0-27.0; P, 1.6-4.0; K, 8.2-19.8; S, 1.0-4.2; Ca, 1.1-3.3; and Mg, 0.8-2.2, compared with applications (kg/ha.month) of: N, 72; P, 31; K, 84; S, 48; Ca, 30; and Mg, 7.2, indicating a recovery of 14-38% for N, 5-13% for P, 10-24% for K, 2-9% for S, 4-11% for Ca and 11-30% for Mg. These results suggest that buffalograss, centipedegrass and zoysiagrass are less sensitive to low nutrient supply than carpetgrass, bermudagrass, blue couch and bahiagrass. Data on nutrient uptake showed that the less sensitive species required only half or less of the nitrogen required to maintain the growth of the other grasses, indicating potential savings for turf managers in fertiliser costs and the environment in terms of nutrients entering waterways.

Management Guidelines for New Warm-Season Grasses in Australia

After more than 30 years in which ‘Tifgreen’ and ‘Tifdwarf’ were the only greens-quality varieties available, the choice for golf courses and bowls clubs in northern Australia has been expanded to include six new Cynodon hybrids [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers x Cynodon transvaalensis Burtt-Davy]. Five of these – ‘Champion Dwarf’ (Texas), ‘MS-Supreme’ (Mississippi), FloraDwarf™ (Florida), ‘TifEagle’ (Georgia), MiniVerde™ (Arizona) - are from US breeding programs, while the sixth, ‘TL2’ (marketed as Novotek™) was selected in north Queensland. The finer, denser and lower growing habit of the “ultradwarf” cultivars allows very low mowing heights (e.g. 2.5 mm) to be imposed, resulting in denser and smoother putting and bowls surfaces. In addition to the Cynodon hybrids, four new greens quality seashore paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum O. Swartz) cultivars including ‘Sea Isle 2000’, Sea Isle Supreme™, Velvetene™ and Sea Dwarf™ (where tolerance of salty water is required) expands the range of choices for greens in difficult environments. The project was developed to determine (a) the appropriate choice of cultivar for different environments and budgets, and (b) best management practices for the new cultivars which differ from the Cynodon hybrid industry standards ‘Tifgreen’ and ‘Tifdwarf’. Management practices, particularly fertilising, mowing heights and frequency, and thatch control were investigated to determine optimum management inputs and provide high quality playing surfaces with the new grasses. To enable effective trialling of these new and old cultivars it was essential to have a number of regional sites participating in the study. Drought and financial hardship of many clubs presented an initial setback with numerous clubs wanting to be involved in the study but were unable to commit due to their financial position at the time. The study was fortunate to have seven regional sites from Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia volunteer to be involved in the study which would add to the results being collected at the centralised test facility being constructed at DEEDI’s Redlands Research Station. The major research findings acquired from the eight trial sites included: • All of the new second generation “ultradwarf” couchgrasses tend to produce a large amount of thatch with MiniVerde™ being the greatest thatch producer, particularly compared to ‘Tifdwarf’ and ‘Tifgreen’. The maintenance of the new Cynodon hybrids will require a program of regular dethatching/grooming as well as regular light dustings of sand. Thatch prevention should begin 3 to 4 weeks after planting a new “ultradwarf” couchgrass green, with an emphasis on prevention rather than control. • The “ultradwarfs” produced faster green speeds than the current industry standards ‘Tifgreen’ and ‘Tifdwarf’. However, all Cynodon hybrids were considerably faster than the seashore paspalums (e.g. comparable to the speed diference of Bentgrass and couchgrass) under trial conditions. Green speed was fastest being cut at 3.5 mm and rolled (compared to 3.5 mm cut, no roll and 2.7 mm cut, no roll). • All trial sites reported the occurrence of disease in the Cynodon hybrids with the main incidence of disease occurring during the dormancy period (autumn and winter). The main disease issue reported was “patch diseases” which includes both Gaumannomyces and Rhizoctonia species. There was differences in the severity of the disease between cultivars, however, the severity of the disease was not consistent between cultivars and is largely attributed to an environment (location) effect. In terms of managing the occurrence of disease, the incidence of disease is less severe where there is a higher fertility rate (about 3 kgN/100m2/year) or a preventitatve fungicide program is adopted. • Cynodon hybrid and seashore paspalum cultivars maintained an acceptable to ideal surface being cut between 2.7 mm and 5.0 mm. “Ultradwarf” cultivars can tolerate mowing heights as low as 2.5 mm for short periods but places the plant under high levels of stress. Greens being maintained at a continually lower cutting height (e.g. 2.7 mm) of both species is achievable, but would need to be cut daily for best results. Seashore paspalums performed best when cut at a height of between 2.7 mm and 3.0 mm. If a lower cutting height is adopted, regular and repeated mowings are required to reduce scalping and produce a smooth surface. • At this point in time the optimum rate of nitrogen (N) for the Cynodon hybrids is 3 kg/100m2/year and while the seashore paspalums is 2 to 3 kg/100m2/year. • Dormancy occurred for all Cynodon and seashore paspalum culitvars from north in Brisbane (QLD) to south in Mornington Peninsula (VIC) and west to Novar Gardens (SA). Cynodon and Paspalum growth in both Victoria and South Australia was less favourable as a result of the cooler climates. • After combining the data collected from all eight sites, the results indicated that there can be variation (e.g. turfgrass quality, colour, disease resistance, performace) depending on the site and climatic conditions. Such evidence highlights the need to undertake genotype by environment (G x E) studies on new and old cultivars prior to conversion or establishment. • For a club looking to select either a Cynodon hybrid or seashore paspalum cultivar for use at their club they need to: - Review the research data. - Look at trial plots. - Inspect greens in play that have the new grasses. - Select 2 to 3 cultivars that are considered to be the better types. - Establish them in large (large enough to putt on) plots/nursery/practice putter. Ideally the area should be subjected to wear. - Maintain them exactly as they would be on the golf course/lawn bowls green. This is a critical aspect. Regular mowing, fertilising etc. is essential. - Assess them over at least 2 to 3 years. - Make a selection and establish it in a playing green so that it is subjected to typical wear.

Warm-season greens grass trial - Environmental and management guidelines suited for new and old cultivars

The Horticulture Australia funded project, Management Guidelines for Warm-Season Grasses in Australia (TU05001), has allowed a detailed greens grass study to take place and enabled researchers and superintendents to work together to collect meaningful data on a range of Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. x Cynodon transvaalensis Burtt-Davy (Cynodon hybrid) and Paspalum vaginatum O. Swartz (seashore paspalum) cultivars suitable for golf or lawn bowls use. The end result provides superintendents and greenkeepers with additional knowledge to accompany their skills in managing or upgrading their greens to produce a denser, smoother and faster putting or bowls surface. However, neither turfgrass selection nor finely tuned management program will overcome unrealistic expectations (especially in relation to usage), poor growing environments, or limitations due to improper construction techniques.

Establishment and management of salt-tolerant amenity grasses to reduce urban salinity effect

This project built upon the successful outcomes of a previous project (TU02005) by adding to the database of salt tolerance among warm season turfgrass cultivars, through further hydroponic screening trials. Hydroponic screening trials focussed on new cultivars or cultivars that were not possible to cover in the time available under TU02005, including: 11 new cultivars of Paspalum vaginatum; 13 cultivars of Cynodon dactylon; six cultivars of Stenotaphrum secundatum; one accession of Cynodon transvaalensis; 12 Cynodon dactylon x transvaalensis hybrids; two cultivars of Sporobolus virginicus; five cultivars of Zoysia japonica; one cultivar of Z. macrantha, one common form of Z. tenuifolia and one Z. japonica x tenuifolia hybrid. The relative salinity tolerance of different turfgrasses is quantified in terms of their growth response to increasing levels of salinity, often defined by the salt level that equates to a 50% reduction in shoot yield, or alternatively the threshold salinity. The most salt tolerant species in these trials were Sporobolus virginicus and Paspalum vaginatum, consistent with the findings from TU02005 (Loch, Poulter et al. 2006). Cynodon dactylon showed the largest range in threshold values with some cultivars highly sensitive to salt, while others were tolerant to levels approaching that of the more halophytic grasses. Coupled with the observational and anecdotal evidence of high drought tolerance, this species and other intermediately tolerant species provide options for site specific situations in which soil salinity is coupled with additional challenges such as shade and high traffic conditions. By recognising the fact that a salt tolerant grass is not the complete solution to salinity problems, this project has been able to further investigate sustainable long-term establishment and management practices that maximise the ability of the selected grass to survive and grow under a particular set of salinity and usage parameters. Salt-tolerant turf grasses with potential for special use situations were trialled under field conditions at three sites within the Gold Coast City Council, while three sites, established under TU02005 within the Redland City Council boundaries were monitored for continued grass survival. Several randomised block experiments within Gold Coast City were established to compare the health and longevity of seashore paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum), Manila grass (Zoysia matrella), as well as the more tolerant cultivars of other species like buffalo grass (Stenotaphrum secundatum) and green couch (Cynodon dactylon). Whilst scientific results were difficult to achieve in the field situation, where conditions cannot be controlled, these trials provided valuable observational evidence of the likely survival of these species. Alternatives to laying full sod such as sprigging were investigated, and were found to be more appropriate for areas of low traffic as the establishment time is greater. Trials under controlled and protected conditions successfully achieved a full cover of Paspalum vaginatum from sprigs in a 10 week time frame. Salt affected sites are often associated with poor soil structure. Part of the research investigated techniques for the alleviation of soil compaction frequently found on saline sites. Various methods of soil de-compaction were investigated on highly compacted heavy clay soil in Redlands City. It was found that the heavy duplex soil of marine clay sediments required the most aggressive of treatments in order to achieve limited short-term effects. Interestingly, a well constructed sports field showed a far greater and longer term response to de-compaction operations, highlighting the importance of appropriate construction in the successful establishment and management of turfgrasses on salt affected sites. Fertiliser trials in this project determined plant demand for nitrogen (N) to species level. This work produced data that can be used as a guide when fertilising, in order to produce optimal growth and quality in the major turf grass species used in public parkland. An experiment commenced during TU02005 and monitored further in this project, investigated six representative warm-season turfgrasses to determine the optimum maintenance requirements for fertiliser N in south-east Queensland. In doing so, we recognised that optimum level is also related to use and intensity of use, with high profile well-used parks requiring higher maintenance N than low profile parks where maintaining botanical composition at a lower level of turf quality might be acceptable. Kikuyu (Pennisetum clandestinum) seemed to require the greatest N input (300-400 kg N/ha/year), followed by the green couch (Cynodon dactylon) cultivars ‘Wintergreen’ and ‘FLoraTeX’ requiring approximately 300 kg N/ha/year for optimal condition and growth. ‘Sir Walter’ (Stenotaphrum secundatum) and ‘Sea Isle 1’ (Paspalum vaginatum) had a moderate requirement of approximately 200 kg/ha/year. ‘Aussiblue’ (Digitaria didactyla)maintained optimal growth and quality at 100-200 kg N/ha/year. A set of guidelines has been prepared to provide various options from the construction and establishment of new grounds, through to the remediation of existing parklands by supporting the growth of endemic grasses. They describe a best management process through which salt affected sites should be assessed, remediated and managed. These guidelines, or Best Management Practices, will be readily available to councils. Previously, some high salinity sites have been turfed several times over a number of years (and Council budgets) for a 100% failure record. By eliminating this budgetary waste through targeted workable solutions, local authorities will be more amenable to investing appropriate amounts into these areas. In some cases, this will lead to cost savings as well as resulting in better quality turf. In all cases, however, improved turf quality will be of benefit to ratepayers, directly through increased local use of open space in parks and sportsfields and indirectly by attracting tourists and other visitors to the region bringing associated economic benefits. At the same time, environmental degradation and erosion of soil in bare areas will be greatly reduced.

Temporal and spatial patterns of soil water extraction and drought resistance among genotypes of a perennial C-4 grass

The objective of this study was to investigate patterns of soil water extraction and drought resistance among genotypes of bermudagrass (Cynodon spp.) a perennial C-4 grass. Four wild Australian ecotypes (1-1, 25a1, 40-1, and 81-1) and four cultivars (CT2, Grand Prix, Legend, and Wintergreen) were examined in field experiments with rainfall excluded to monitor soil water extraction at 30-190 cm depths. In the study we defined drought resistance as the ability to maintain green canopy cover under drought. The most drought resistant genotypes (40-1 and 25a1) maintained more green cover (55-85% vs 5-10%) during water deficit and extracted more soil water (120-160 mm vs 77-107 mm) than drought sensitive genotypes, especially at depths from 50 to 110 cm, though all genotypes extracted water to 190 cm. The maintenance of green cover and higher soil water extraction were associated with higher stomatal conductance, photosynthetic rate and relative water content. For all genotypes, the pattern of water use as a percentage of total water use was similar across depth and time We propose the observed genetic variation was related to different root characteristics (root length density, hydraulic conductivity, root activity) although shoot sensitivity to drying soil cannot be ruled out.

Comparison of compost and a sandy loam as turf underlay materials on salt-affected parkland

Turfgrasses range from extremely salt sensitive to highly salt tolerant. However, the selection of a salt tolerant turf is not a 'silver bullet' solution to successful turf growth on salt-affected parklands. Interactions between factors such as cultivar, construction practices, establishment, and maintenance can be complex and should not be considered in isolation of one another. Taking this holistic approach, a study investigating cultivar evaluation for salt-affected sites also included a comparison of topsoil materials as turf underlay, as well as pre-treatment of the sod. The turf species and cultivars used in the study were: Cynodon dactylon, cultivar 'Oz Tuff (I) '; Paspalum vaginatum, cultivars 'Sea Isle 1 (I) ' and 'Velvetene (I) '; Zoysia matrella cultivar 'A-1 (I) '; and Zoysia japonica, cultivar 'Empire (I) '. The two underlay materials were compost (100%) or a sandy clay topsoil each applied above a coastal sand profile to a depth of 10 cm. Rooting depth or root dry weight did not significantly differ among turf cultivars. Compost profile treatment had significantly greater root mass than the topsoil among all turf cultivars. This higher root production was reflected by improved quality of all turf at the final evaluation. Turfgrass grown on compost had a higher normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI), regardless of whether full sod or bare-rooted turfgrass was used. The use of a quality underlay was paramount to the successful growth of the turf cultivars investigated. While each cultivar had superior performance in sub-optimal conditions, the key to success was the selection of the right species and cultivar for each situation combined with proper establishment and maintenance of each turf grass.

Early recovery signs of an Australian grassland following the management of Parthenium hysterophorus L

Parthenium weed (Parthenium hysterophorus L.) is believed to reduce the above- and below-ground plant species diversity and the above-ground productivity in several ecosystems. We quantified the impact of this invasive weed upon species diversity in an Australian grassland and assessed the resulting shifts in plant community composition following management using two traditional approaches. A baseline plant community survey, prior to management, showed that the above-ground community was dominated by P. hysterophorus, stoloniferous grasses, with a further high frequency of species from Malvaceae, Chenopodiaceae and Amaranthaceae. In heavily invaded areas, P. hysterophorus abundance and biomass was found to negatively correlate with species diversity and native species abundance. Digitaria didactyla Willd. was present in high abundance when P. hysterophorus was not, with these two species, contributing most to the dissimilarity seen between areas. The application of selective broad leaf weed herbicides significantly reduced P. hysterophorus biomass under ungrazed conditions, but this management did not yet result in an increase in species diversity. In the above-ground community, P. hysterophorus was partly replaced by the introduced grass species Cynodon dactylon L. (Pers.) 1 year after management began, increasing the above-ground forage biomass production, while D. didactyla replaced P. hysterophorus in the below-ground community. This improvement in forage availability continued to strengthen over the time of the study resulting in a total increase of 80% after 2 years in the ungrazed treatment, demonstrating the stress that grazing was imposing upon this grassland-based agro-ecosystem and showing that it is necessary to remove grazing to obtain the best results from the chemical management approach.

Estudio de la eficiencia de utilización del fertilizante nitrogenado en los pastos bajo las condiciones de la III región (Managua)

Se realizó un estudio a partir de la recopilación de diferentes trabajos experimentales y en condiciones de producción realizados bajo las características de la Calera, Chiltepe y ANILIB, en el tema de fertilización nitrogenada en los pastos: estrella (Cynodon nlemfluensis), bermuda coastal (Cynodon dactylon vs coastal) y sorgo forrajero (Sorghum vulgare). Donde se compararon dosis de O, 40, 80, 90, 100, 200, 400, 600, 800 Kg N/ha/año respectivamente. Para analizar la eficiencia técnica del fertilizante se estimaron regresiones entre el rendimiento y el nivel de nitrógeno, y al calcular la respuesta igualmente se estimó la regresión entre la eficiencia de conversión (Kg MS/Kg N aplicado) y el nivel de nitrógeno, encontrándose buenos ajustes con las funciones cuadráticas (r= 0.9, 0.5) para rendimiento y respuesta respectivamente. Obteniéndose la máxima de conversión con dosis de 200 - 300 Kg N/ha/año. Además la amplia serie de niveles de N permitió conocer el potencial de respuesta de diferentes pastos durante la estación lluviosa y seca, siendo en esta última donde se produjo los más bajos valores de rendimiento. Se encontraron el mayor efecto del nivel de fertilización que de la edad. Así como la diferencia entre las especies estudiadas, resultando superior el pasto estrella en un 69% que el sorgo. Por otra parte la fuente nitrógeno aplicado fue superior al utilizar sulfato de amonio con dosis elevada y el nitrato de amonio con aplicaciones bajas de nitrógeno.

Aplicación de algunas prácticas de manejo y su efecto en el anestro en vacas del Municipio de San Dionisio Matagalpa

El presente estudio realizado en el municipio de San Dionisia Departamento de Matagalpa, a travéz de un estudio retrospectivo del Banco de datos de seguimiento a fincas que PRODESSA venía realizando desde 1988 en 6 comunidades, permitió caracterizar el ganado manejado en pequeñas fincas encontrándose, un rango promedio de producción de leche de 3 a 5.3 litros y un rango promedio de lactación entre 7.7 a 11.1 meses. La alimentación principal es a base de pasto jaragua (Hyparrhenia ruffa), rastrojos de csecha, leguminosas naturales, en menor grado el pasto Taiwán (Pennisetum purpureum), pasto estrella, (Cynodon nlenfuensis), y suministro de sal común. En salud animal las actividades realizadas son: vacunación contra Ántrax y Pierna Negra, la realizan 2 veces en el año el 100% de productores, control de ectoparásitos 12 baños promedio anuales el 100% de productores, desparasitación interna, 2 veces en el año el 24% de productores, una vez al año el 57% y el 11% no lo realizan, la vitaminación, el 60% realiza una por año, el 12% 2 por año y el 28% de productores no vitaminan. Las pequeñas fincas presentan áreas no mayores de 5 mz. de tierra el 46.75%, el 33.76% con áreas no mayores de 10 mz. de terreno y el 19.43% con áreas mayores de 10 mz. de tierra. Además se definieron siete prácticas de manejo y se evaluó su efecto en vacas con anestro obteniéndose los siguientes resultados: la primera práctica consistió en la suplementación alimenticia a base de maíz triturado (A), desparasitación interna con levamisol (D) y masajes estimulantes (M) a 33 vacas representando el 100% de los animales, manifestando celo al final de la práctica el 9.09%. La segunda práctica se aplicó a un total de 16 vacas que, representan el 48.48% del total inicial, a estas se les suministró vitamina AD,E (V), de las cuales presentaron celo el 21.21%. La tercera práctica se realizó con 14 vacas que representan el 42.42% del cohorte, a las que se les suministró minerales (Mi) aplicando Tonofosfan, presentó celo el 24.24% del total inicial. La cuarta práctica se aplicó a 9 vacas que representan el 27.27% del cohorte, que posterior a la aplicación de la primera y la segunda práctica se les suministró minerales, presentando celo el 12.12% del total inicial. La quinta práctica se aplicó a un total de 6 vacas que representaron el 18.18% del total, a estas se suministró vitamina AD,E, presentó celo el 15.15% del total inicial. La sexta práctica se ejecutó con 5 vacas representando el 15.15%, se les suministro hormonas, a 4 de ellas por presencia de cuerpo lúteo persistente, se les aplicó la hormona Prosolvin y a una Por presencia de quiste folicular se le aplicó la hormona Foligon, de las cuales presentó celo el 3.03%. La séptima práctica se realizó con una vaca, que representa el 3.03% del total inicial se le aplicó la hormona Foligon por presencia de quiste folicular, no logrando esta vaca presentar celo con esta última práctica. Al comparar las prácticas entre ellas se obtuvieron los siguientes resultados: Se encontraron diferencias significativas (P<0.05) al comparar la primera práctica con la segunda, tercera, cuarta y quinta práctica, mayoritariamente hacia la segunda, tercera, cuarta y quinta práctica, de igual manera al comparar la quinta con la sexta y séptima práctica se encontraron diferencias significativas (P<0.05) con mayor efecto a la quinta práctica.

Efecto del cultivo intercalado del frijol comun (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) sobre las comunidades de malezas, nematodos, crecimiento y rendimiento del café (Coffea arábica)

El trabajo fue realizado en el centro experimental del café del pacifico (C.E.C.P.), Jardín Botánico, Masatepe, durante las dos épocas de siembra para el frijol común (Phaseolus vulgaris L) y la cosecha anual del cate (Coffea arábica L) Enero . Diciembre 1993. Este ensayo se realizó con las variedades Dor- 364 para el frijol y Catuaí arnarillo para el café, éste con una edad de 6 años se estableció bajo un bloque completamente al azar (B.C.A) con Cuatro repeticiones. El trabajo se llevó a cabo con el objetivo de determinar el efecto del asocio del frijol sobre el comportamiento de las poblaciones de malezas, el comportamiento poblacional de los nematodos y sobre el rendimiento del café. La abundancia y dominancia de malezas. Se redujo en los tratamientos donde se sembró frijol. En ambas épocas se encontró Cynodon dactylon L; Cyperus rotundus L; Digitaria Sanguinalis L. :Melampodium diviracatum L y Pamcum Sp; Las poblaciones de los nematodos fueron variables en su comportamiento. En cuanto al crecimiento, el diámetro demostró diferencia. significativa, el mayor diámetro correspondió al tratamiento donde se sembró frijol en ambas épocas con 3.66 y al tratamiento de frijol en primera con 3.17. El rendimiento del café no presentó diferencias significativas los resultados obtenidos en grano uva ( grano maduro de café), fue mayor en el tratamiento de frijol en ambas épocas con 6 624.25 kg/ha. en grano oro el mayor rendimiento fue en los tratamientos donde siempre hubo frijol con 1 124.25 kg/ha, lo cual demuestra que el frijol no ejerce influencia negativa sobre el rendimiento del café.

Diagnóstico fitosanitario de la producción de frijol común (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) en la zona de Nueva Guinea, época de apante 1994-1995

El presente trabajo es el resultado de un diagnóstico realizado en el municipio de Nueva Guinea, Zelaya Central, en la época de apante (1994-1995). El estudio fue dirigido a los factores biológicos que afectan la producción de frijol común (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) principalmente plagas, enfermedades y malezas. El estudio abarcó nueve colonias y 14 productores del municipio de Nueva Guinea. Los resultados muestran que el principal problema de plagas es la babosa Vaginulus plebeius Fisher. Las medias de control contra las plagas están enfocadas al manejo de la especie en mención. Referente a las malezas se observó predominancia de malezas de hoja fina tales como retumbo Rottboellia cochinchinenesís (Lour) Clayton, zacate guinea Panicum maximun Jacq., retana Ischaemun ciliari Salisb y el zacate gallina Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. Las malezas de hoja ancha se presentaron en menor proporción, sobresaliendo la especie batatilla o campanila lpomoea tilliaceae (Wild) Choisy. La diversidad de las malezas es mayor en labranza convencional. la menor cantidad de especies de malezas se encontró en la labranza mínima. Las enfermedades de mayor relevancia son la antracnosis Colletotríchum lindemutianum ( Sacc & Magnus ) BCMV (virus del mosaíco común del frijol) y bacteriosis común del frijol Xanthomonas campestris pv phaseoli ( Smith ) Dye. La escasa precipitación durante el período del estudio probablemente influyó en que las enfermedades fungosas no se manifestaran en los lotes muestreados. El análisis económico muestra que la producción de frijol común en Nueva Guinea no fue rentable en el ciclo estudiado.

Producción de frijol común (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) bajo tres sistemas de labranza y tres métodos de control de malezas y su evaluación económica, primera 1996

Durante el ciclo de primera (mayo-agosto) 1996, se realizó el presente trabajo en la estación experimental La Compañía, ubicada en el municipio de San Marcos departamento de Carazo. Los objetivos fueron: evaluar la efectividad e influencia de tres sistemas de labranzas (cero, mínima y convencional), y tres métodos de control de malezas (pre­ emergente más post-emergente, pre-emergente más chapia y pre-emergente más cobertura), sobre la dinámica de las malezas, la incidencia y severidad de la enfermedad mustia hilachosa del frijol común (Phaseolu vulgaris L.) causada por el hongo Thanatephorus cucumeris (Frank) Donck, el crecimiento y rendimiento del cultivo de frijol. El diseño utilizado en el experimento fue de Bloques Completamente al Azar donde sus tratamientos fueron arreglados en un parcelas divididas. En la parcela grande se estableció el factor labranzas de suelo y en la parcela pequeña los controles de malezas. Los datos recopilados de las variables en estudio fueron sometidos a un análisis de varianza y comparaciones de medias por Duncan al 5 por ciento. Los resultados muestran que labranza convencional y el control de malezas pre-emergente más cobertura obtuvieron los mejores resultados en la reducción de la abundancia y dominancia de malezas, de igual forma labranza convencional presentó la menor diversidad de malezas con el control de malezas pre-emergente más chapia. Respecto a las variables de crecimiento en frijol, labranza cero y mínima y el control de malezas pre-emergente más cobertura resultaron con mayores promedios de altura de plantas. En cuanto a las variables del rendimiento en el cultivo del frijol común, labranza cero obtuvo el mayor rendimiento de grano con (1923.9 kg/ha) y el control de malezas pre­ emergente más cobertura con (1719.4 kg/ha), no así labranza convencional presentó el menor rendimiento de grano con (1470.3 kg/ha) y el control de malezas pre-emergente más post-emergente con (1634.8 kg/ha). La comparación de individuos/m2 en el banco de semillas versus individuosfm2 en el campo muestra que los individuos con mayor porcentaje de germinación fueron Cynodon dactylon (L) Pers, lxophorus unisetus K. B. Presl, Cyperus rotundus L y Ageratum conyzoides L, encontrando mayor número de individuosfm2 en el banco de semillas (invernadero). Los resultados del análisis económico a través del presupuesto parcial y de dominancia muestra que labranza cero y el control de malezas pre-emergente más post - emergente presentó mayor rentabilidad a nivel de costos y beneficios más altos, ya que sus costos son moderados y se obtienen ingresos netos rentables. La mayor taza de retomo marginal se obtiene al cambiar de labranza mínima (pre emergente más cobertura) a labranza cero (pre-emergente más cobertura) con una tasa de retomo marginal de 2 454 (C$/ha).

Efecto de diferentes frijoles abonos sobre la dinámica de macronutrientes (N,P,K) del suelo, el aporte de materia orgánica, la incidencia de las diferentes pestes agrícolas y sobre el crecimiento y rendimiento de la pitahaya (Hylocereus undatus Britton y Rose)

Durante la época de postrera en 1997 se estableció un experimento de campo en la finca Frutas Tropicales y Cia Ltda, ubicada en el km 38 carretera MasayaTipitapa, Nicaragua para evaluar el efecto de diferentes frijoles abonos sobre la dinámica de macronutrientes del suelo, aporte de materia orgánica y la incidencia de las diferentes pestes agrícolas sobre el crecimiento y rendimiento de la pitahaya (Hylocereus undatus, Britton & Rose). El diseño experimental utilizado fue un bloque completo al azar con tres repeticiones. Los tratamientos evaluados fueron: Mucuna pruriens (L), Cajanus cajan (L), Canavalia ensiformis (L), Vigna unguiculata (L), Dolichos lablab (L) y el tratamiento sin frijol. Los fríjoles abonos ejercen un efecto positivo en el aporte de nutriente y reciclaje de los mismos mejoran la fertilidad del suelo. También aportan gran cantidad de materia orgánica a partir de los restos vegetales produciendo mayor biomasa C. ensiformis, C. cajan y M pruriens. Las malas hierbas fueron controladas eficazmente por los frijoles abonos, principalmente las monocotiledóneas; no así en el tratamiento sin frijol. Las malas hierbas que más predominaron fueron: Acalypha alopecuroides (L), Hybanthus attenuatus (H&B), Chamaesyce hirta (L), Rícharcdia scabra (L), Hyparrhenia rufa (Nees), Digitaria sanguinalis (L), Panicum decumbens (L), Panicum reptans (L) y Cynodon nlejluensis (Vanderyst). Las poblaciones de insectos plagas fueron menores en los tratamientos que predominaba el clon más resistente al ataque de insectos plagas. Los insectos plagas de suelo fueron controlados por los frijoles abonos, al igual que los nematodos. La incidencia de las enfermedades Colletotrichum goesporiodes Penz (Antracnosis) y Dotiorella sp (Ojo de Pescado) fue menor en los tratamientos donde predominaba el clon Cebra. La Erwinia carotovora Iones (Bacteriosis) presentó menor incidencia bajo el efecto de D. lablab y C. ensiformis. El efecto positivo del asocio de estos fríjoles abonos con la pitahaya mejora su crecimiento produciendo más brotes bajo la presencia de C. cajan, se obtuvieron incremento en los rendimientos tanto en el número de fiutos por hectárea como en el rendimiento en kg/ha bajo el efecto de C. cajan, M pruriens y D. lablab

Efecto de las distancias entre surcos sobre la incidencia de malezas en cultivo de nopal (Opuntia ficus indica L.) y entomofauna asociada, en Diriamba, Nicaragua

El nopal ( Opuntia ficus indica L.), es una planta perteneciente a la familia de las Cactáceas que sobrevive en zonas áridas o semiáridas, tiene un papel ecológico importante, ya que detiene la degrad ación del suelo deforestado, convirtiendo tierr as improductivas en productivas. E ste c ultivo es práctica mente desconocido en Nicaragua y hay pocos datos de manejo agronómico a nivel local . Por esta razón se estableció el presente experimento en la finca Gu adarrama, en la co munidad Buena Vista Sur, km 56 carretera a Diriamba - La Boquita . É ste se inició en el mes de julio del 2006, con el objetivo de conocer la incidencia de malezas en diferentes distancias e ntre surcos en cultivo de nopal. U tilizándose un di seño de Bloques Completos al Azar, con cuatro di stanciamientos entre surcos 0.5, 1.0 , 1.5 y 2.0 metros respectivamente, siendo las distancias entre plantas de 0.5 m en todos los casos . L as variables medidas fueron abundancia, dominancia ( % cobertura , bioma sa ) y diversidad. Los resultados obtenidos muestran un 80 % de arvenses monocotiledóneas y un 20 % de dicotiledóneas. No existió significancia estadística según Tukey al 95 % para ambos grupos de malezas , sin embargo existi eron d iferencias numéricas. L as m onocotiled óneas dominaron sobre dicotiledóneas presentando peso s entre 746 y 1 348 kg/ha . L a maleza más dominante fue Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. de la familia de las Poáceas y la dicotiledónea correspondió a Chamaescyse hirta (L.) Mill spaugh de la famili a Euforbiáceas . S e encontraron 15 especies de insectos, 5 pertenecen al ó rden Lepidóptera, 3 H omóptera, 2 O rthoptera, los demás pertenecen a los ó rdenes D íptera , H ymenóptera, M antodea, M iriápodos y H emíptera