Aug 4, 2016

University of Idaho, ARS studying manure use in root crops

The fourth year of a long-term manure study is currently underway in Idaho, where researchers are studying the use of manure in root crops such as potatoes and sugar beets. The study, a collaboration between the University of Idaho and the Agricultral Research Service, will grow the crops four times during the eight-year study.

Here’s more from Magic Valley:

This is the fourth year of the study, marking the second time beets and potatoes have been grown. Early results indicate that applying low manure rates every other year generates good yields and quality for beets.

Researchers have observed that tubers from the higher manure plots have rougher skin, more hollow heart, lower specific gravities and lower yields. Again, applying manure every other year seems to help reduce potential yield or quality issues while still providing soil tilth benefits.

Halfway through the study, researchers are beginning to see some concerns developing. There appears to be some movement of both phosphorus and nitrogen below the root zone.

Read more at magicvalley.com.