Effect of nitrogen fertigation on the yield of Arundo donax L. grown in central Spain

Arundo donax L. has been recognized as a promising energy crop for biomass production. Nitrogen is the primary macronutrient with the highest effect on plant production. Different studies have shown that N granular fertilizers slightly increase the biomass yield of giant reed. The aim of this work is to evaluate the effect of N fertilization applied in fertigation on the yield of Arundo donax grown in Central Spain. The experiment was carried out in field. The fertigation treatment was applied in June and July 2015. Three levels of N were established N0 (0 kgN.ha-1), N1 (60 kgN.ha-1); and N2 (120 kgN.ha-1) applied 50% June, 50% July. The effect of fertigation on plant traits and biomass production was evaluated. The plant height was determined in both June and October as well as the chlorophyll content. In October the basal diameter was also measured. Biomass production was evaluated at harvest time. Results showed higher values in plant height and weight in N1 and N2 in relation to control plants. Higher chlorophyll content and higher basal diameter were found in plants treated with N2. In the assay conditions, nitrogen applied in fertigation had a positive effect on Arundo growth. Keywords: arundo donax, production, fertilization, perennial energy crops