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AFTER THE FLOOD: IMPACTS ON RHIZOSPHERE BIOLOGY, NUTRIENT CYCLING, AND CORN GROWTH AND YIELD

Objective

Our long-term research goal is to contribute to the improvement of cropping system resiliency through manipulation of management factors to increase physiological efficiency, crop yield and quality, in addition to soil health. Our overall objectives are to understand how flooding impacts soil ecosystem functionality and diversity and to identify key management practices for use in corn (Zea mays L.) production to minimize the negative effects of flood stress.We plan to achieve the overall objectives through the following specific aims:Specific Aim 1: Determine how different cover crops impact water and nutrient cycling, rhizosphere biology, and crop yield in the event of flooding. We hypothesize species and residue levels will impact the rate of water cycling (e.g., transpiration, soil drying) and nutrient cycling due to varying levels of residue and soil water content. Eight different cover crop treatments will be implemented to investigate this aim.Specific Aim 2: Measure the impact of N source (synthetic and biological) and flooding on corn nutrient use efficiency, yield and rhizosphere biology. We hypothesize nutrient source will dramatically impact rhizosphere characteristics, grain yield, and nutrient use efficiency. Treatments will include a non-fertilized control, multiple synthetic N treatments (with and without chemical stabilizers added), and an organic N source (manure) subjected to two levels of flooding.Specific Aim 3: Develop a diagnostic post-flood soil test to improve nutrient application recommendations. Based on preliminary data, we hypothesize the soil nutrient levels post-flood will correspond to plant uptake and grain yield. Treatments will include three flood treatments and eight N application regimes.

Investigators
Lindsey, A.; Sprunger, Ch, .
Institution
Ohio State University
Start date
2021
End date
2026
Project number
OHO03072-CG
Accession number
1025103