The Influence of Different Fertilization Strategies on the Grain Yield of Field Peas (Pisum sativum L.) under Conventional and Conservation Tillage

Abstract

Weather, tillage, and fertilization are the major factors affecting the grain yield of field peas (Pisum sativum L.). However, the impact of tillage and fertilization on yield is not well understood. Therefore, this experiment was initiated in 1999. In this manuscript, we report the data recorded during the period of 2011–2015 to quantify the impacts on yield. Field peas were planted in seedbeds prepared through conventional tillage (CT)—moldboard ploughing to the depth of 0.22 m; and minimum tillage (MT)—disking to the depth of 0.12 m. The crop received three fertilization treatments, including zero fertilization (control); nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK) mineral fertilization treatment; and NPK mineral fertilization plus the incorporation of pre-crop biomass. Five years’ average data indicated the highest yield on fertilized treatments (2.85–2.98 t ha−1 vs. 2.66 t ha−1) regardless of the tillage. When comparing the yield of fertilized treatments, the yield under CT (2.98 t ha−1) was significantly higher than that of MT (2.85 t ha−1). However, on non-fertilized treatments (less fertile plots), a higher yield was recorded under MT (2.71 t ha−1) compared with CT (2.40 t ha−1). Overall, the results of this study suggest that fertilizer application together with incorporation of the above-ground biomass of the previous crop may help sustain pea grain yield.