Sustainable Management for oat Grain Yield and Quality Based on Nitrogen Supply and Seeding Density

Abstract

Purpose:  The objective of this study is to evaluate a sustainable management for oat crops with high nitrogen use efficiency combined with high seeding density to improve grain yield and quality while increasing oat competitive ability against ryegrass.   Method/design/approach: The experiment was carried out in the years 2020, 2021 and 2022, with an experimental design of randomized blocks with four replications, in a 4 x 3 factorial arrangement, for sowing densities (100, 300, 600 and 900 viable seeds m-2) and form of nutrient supply: [single dose, (100%) at phenological stage V4 (fourth expanded leaf); fractional (70/30%) at the V4/V6 phenological stage (fourth and sixth expanded leaves) and; fractionated (70/30%) at phenological stage V4/R1 (beginning of anthesis)], respectively. Indicators of productivity and chemical quality of oat grains were analyzed, and lodging and ryegrass inflorescences exposed on oat plants were analyzed in the field.   Results and conclusion: The application of a single dose of nitrogen at the V4 stage resulted in higher grain and oat straw yields, without changes in the crude protein and crude fiber content of the grains. The combination of this nitrogen application method with a sowing density of 490 seeds m-2 increased the competitive capacity of white oat plants, reducing the number of ryegrass inflorescences.   Originality/value: This study contributes to more sustainable management practices in the use of nitrogen and the contribution of plant density in promoting competitive ability, reducing dependence on agrochemicals in ryegrass control and promoting food security and environmental protection.