Effects of Phosphorus and Nitrogen Applications and Rhizobium Inoculation on the Yield and Nutrient Uptake of Sainfoin (Onobrychis Viciifolia L.) Under Irrigated Conditions in Turkey

Abstract

This study was carried out to determine the effects of phosphorus and nitrogen applications and Rhizobium inoculation on the yield and nutrient uptake in sainfoin grown in Van, Turkey, in 2002 and 2003. Nitrogen application significantly increased plant height, and fresh forage and hay yields, in both years. The highest values were obtained from the 40 kg ha(-1) N. Applications over 40 kg ha(-1) N decreased these parameters. Nitrogen at 40 kg ha(-1) also resulted in the highest nitrogen, phosphor-us, and potassium contents of the plants. The application of 39 kg P ha(-1) significantly increased plant height, and fresh forage and hay yields. Phosphorus also increased nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium contents. Rhizobium inoculation significantly increased all the parameters investigated over the control. The highest yield and nutrient contents were obtained from the application 40 kg ha(-1) N + 39 kg P ha(-1) + Rhizobium inoculation.