Explore the details of UF/IFAS research that examined the optimal rate of nitrogen in bamboo production in Florida.
“Bamboo is emerging as a promising new specialty crop for Florida. It offers opportunities for edible shoots, timber, biomaterials, and carbon storage,” shared a recent UF/IFAS blog article. The article looked at research results into the optimal rates of nitrogen in bamboo production for Florida growers. See the details below.
Nitrogen in Bamboo Production
The study was conducted by the UF/IFAS Department of Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences (SWES) at the UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center in Lake Alfred, and it “identifies an optimal nitrogen (N) fertilization range for Dendrocalamus asper, one of the most commercially valuable bamboo species,” according to the article.
Researchers found that “Bamboo’s rapid growth creates a high demand for nutrients, particularly N. Before this study, little information existed on how much Florida conditions require. Too little limits growth; too much threatens plant health and the environment.”
The article shared that “The researchers evaluated four N rates applied to one-year-old bamboo plants (0-, 112-, 224-, and 336-kilograms N per hectare). They measured the bamboo growth responses over two years. This included plant height, culm (stem) diameter, and biomass. Then they modeled optimal N levels under each year’s weather patterns.”
Researchers found that “Nitrogen significantly increased bamboo height, culm thickness, and biomass, as expected. However, very high N rates inhibited growth.” Specific results include:
- “The 224 kilograms per hectare (200 pounds per acre) rate was best for biomass accumulation and moderate nutrient use efficiency…”
- “…But even half that amount (100 pounds per acre) was enough to reach a desired culm diameter.”
Griffin Fertilizer is committed to helping both growers and ranchers make sound agronomic and economic decisions in order to maximize the health of their grove and pasture. As a full-service custom dry & liquid fertilizer blender and crop protection product distributor, we will continue our mission to further advance Florida agriculture. For questions or concerns about your farm or pasture, contact us and one of our team will be in touch.