Controlled-Release nitrogen enhances rice (Oryza sativa L.) productivity and profitability

Abstract

The following work evaluated the yield of the rice crop (Oryza sativa L.), using controlled release nitrogen fertilizer, the study area was two hectares. A simple factorial experimental design in randomised blocks was established, with four treatments with different percentages of fertiliser: T1(0%N); T2(50%N); T3(100%N); and T4(150%N), the percentages of nitrogen applications were carried out according to the indications of an agronomist, based on the Nitrogen losses from conventional fertilization reduce nitrogen use efficiency and limit productivity in irrigated rice systems. This study evaluated the effect of controlled-release urea with a urease inhibitor (NITROXTEND+S) on the yield of irrigated rice (Oryza sativa L.) in Huila, Colombia. The field trial (2 ha) was designed as a randomized complete block design with four nitrogen (N) treatments: T1 (0%), T2 (50%), T3 (100%), and T4 (150%). Five fertilization applications were carried out in 2023 (March 22, 29, April 1, 15, and 25), following the agronomist's technical recommendations based on soil chemical analysis and weekly crop monitoring. Phenological variables and yield (using 50 × 50 cm measuring devices) were evaluated, and Shapiro-Wilk, ANOVA, and Fisher's LSD tests were applied. The yield of green paddy rice (mean ± SE) was: T1 = 5.86 ± 0.12, T2 = 7.19 ± 0.25, T3 = 9.48 ± 0.19, T4 = 7.91 ± 0.15 t ha⁻¹; T3 exceeded the national and departmental averages. It is concluded that inadequate doses (below or above the crop's nutritional requirements) reduce production, and that the optimal use of controlled-release nitrogen with a urease inhibitor improves productivity and nutrient use efficiency.