Yield Increases from Nitrogen on Native Range in Southern British Columbia

Abstract

Response of native range to nitrogen fertilizer has been variable in the province of British Columbia, Canada. Yields have been approximately doubled at many sites reported, but at others virtually no increase has been obtained. It is therefore of interest to report results at 9 additional locations. Average yields from 7 locations over periods from 1 to 4 years from a single fertilizer application were 507 lb/acre without fertilizer, 701 lb from 60 lb/acre N and 880 lb from 240 lb/acre N. Yield increases from 60 lb N averaged from 4 locations declined from 68% in the first year to 35% in the second, 14% in the third, and 6% in the fourth. However, yield increases from 240 lb N remained high with 73% increase the first year, 58% in the second, 92% in the third, and 101% in the fourth year. Cost of the increased yield ranged from $6.40 to $98.00/ton.