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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Auburn, Alabama » Soil Dynamics Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #347953
Research Project: Enhancing Production and Ecosystem Services of Horticultural and Agricultural Systems in the Southeastern United States

Location: Soil Dynamics Research

Title: Effects of elevated atmospheric CO2 and N fertilization on bahiagrass root distribution

Author
item Prior, Stephen - Steve
item Runion, George
item Torbert, Henry - Allen

Submitted to: American Society of Agronomy Branch Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 1/2/2018
Publication Date: 2/4/2018
Citation: Prior, S.A., Runion, G.B., Torbert III, H.A. 2018. Effects of elevated atmospheric CO2 and N fertilization on bahiagrass root distribution [abstract]. American Society of Agronomy Branch Meeting. CDROM.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: The effects of elevated atmospheric CO2 on pasture systems remain understudied in the Southeastern US. A 10-year study of bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum Flüggé) response to elevated CO2 was established in 2005 using open top field chambers on a Blanton loamy sand (loamy siliceous, thermic, Grossarenic Paleudults). Plants were subjected to ambient or elevated (ambient plus 200 ppm) CO2. After a year establishment period, N was applied to half of the plots ([(NH4)2SO4] at 90 kg/ha 3x/yr) while the remaining plots received no N fertilization. These two treatments represent managed and unmanaged pastures, both of which are common in the Southeast. Root length and dry weight densities were evaluated yearly in 5 cm increments to a depth of 60 cm. In general, there was very little effect of elevated CO2 on root variables. However, roots showed a strong response to N addition. Findings suggest that bahiagrass pasture root productivity will be responsive to N fertilization, but will not be greatly affected by rising atmospheric CO2.