Effect of nitrogen fertilization on decomposition and nutrient release from poplar litter in Punjab state of India

Abstract

A litter decomposition study using litterbags was conducted to assess influence of nitrogen levels (N1 : 120 kg N/ha and N2 : 180 kg N/ha) on decomposition, nutrient content and release from poplar litter aged two (2 Y) and five years (5 Y) during January to October in 2017. Litter quantity in litterbags was greater with N1 under both 2 and 5 Y old poplar plantations. Highest increase in nitrogen content, while decrease in phosphorus and potassium content was observed during February to May. Release of N was maximum during May-August, while release of P and K was maximum during February-April with N2 under both 2 and 5 Y old poplar plantations. However, the release of nutrients was higher in the plantation aged two years than the five years. The nutrient release pattern followed the order K>P>N.