Effect of ash biomass fertilization on Hemarthria altissima cv. Florida grown in acid soil

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of surface application of biomass ash on the production of Hemarthria altissima CV. Florida and on the originally acid soil. A randomized block design was used with three replications and five doses of ash (0; 2.5; 5.0; 7.5 and 10t/ha). There was increased production of pasture phytomass with the application of ash in the two years of evaluation. The application of biomass ash increased the content of crude protein, and neutral detergent fiber decreased, improving pasture quality during autumn. The pH in soil water was not affected in the 0-10 cm layer, while the concentrations of K, Ca and P increased only 20 months after ash application . In this period increased levels of Ni and Cr were observed using major doses of ash, but the observed values remained below the limits established by the Brazilian law. Considering the features assessed, the 10t/ha dose of biomass ash showed potential use as a fertilizer for the Hemarthria altissima CV. Florida.