Cropping system and growth and nodulation responses of beans to nitrogen in Tabasco, Mexico

Abstract

Growth and nodulation responses of beans to nitrogen fertilization in a greenhouse experiment were used to assess the effects on the soil of several seasons of continuous cropping of maize, legumes, and maize/legume polyculture. Maize monoculture soils showed significantly higher responses in both growth and nodulation, indicating faster depletion of soil nitrogen. The results suggest that polyculture may be advantageous in maintaining long-term yields in humid tropical lowland soils.