Publication Date
1997
Description
Production of biosolids has been increasing consistently in the last few years. Land application of wastes is being regarded as an alternative means of disposal and as a source of inexpensive fertilizer material. Pastures are particularly attractive in this regard since the areas occupied are extensive and large amounts of fertilizer are required for adequate production. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of various rates of biosolids on bahiagrass yield and quality. Forage samples were collected from each plot from April to December. Significant increases in dry matter production, crude protein content and in vitro digestibility were obtained for both years of biosolids application. A small residual effect of the treatments applied in the first year is verified during the second year. Sporadic increases in plant and soil metal contents are not substantial to yield environmental concerns, even with the higher rates of biosolids.
Citation
Muchovej, R M. and Rechcigl, J E., "Bahiagrass Forage Production and Quality as Effected by Municipal Biosolids" (2024). IGC Proceedings (1997-2023). 19.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/igc/1997/session11/19
Included in
Agricultural Science Commons, Agronomy and Crop Sciences Commons, Plant Biology Commons, Plant Pathology Commons, Soil Science Commons, Weed Science Commons
Bahiagrass Forage Production and Quality as Effected by Municipal Biosolids
Production of biosolids has been increasing consistently in the last few years. Land application of wastes is being regarded as an alternative means of disposal and as a source of inexpensive fertilizer material. Pastures are particularly attractive in this regard since the areas occupied are extensive and large amounts of fertilizer are required for adequate production. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of various rates of biosolids on bahiagrass yield and quality. Forage samples were collected from each plot from April to December. Significant increases in dry matter production, crude protein content and in vitro digestibility were obtained for both years of biosolids application. A small residual effect of the treatments applied in the first year is verified during the second year. Sporadic increases in plant and soil metal contents are not substantial to yield environmental concerns, even with the higher rates of biosolids.
