Productivity of processing peas as influenced by nitrogen fertilization, Rhizobium inoculation, and fungicide seed treatment

Abstract

A 3-yr field experiment determined the influence of nitrogen (N) rates (0, 23, 46 and 92 kg ha−1), rhizobial inoculation, and fungicide (captan and thiram) seed treatment on the productivity of processing peas (Pisum sativum L.). In 2 of the 3 yr, N rates up to 46 or 92 kg N ha−1 increased vine fresh weight, decreased nodulation and had no effect on seed yield. Seeds treated with fungicides or inoculated with Rhizobium leguminosarum biovar viceae had no effect on vine fresh weight or seed yield. Nodule dry weight was increased in 2 of 3 yr when seeds were inoculated with Rhizobium. Key words: Pisum sativum, nodulation, rhizobia, fungicides