Vegetation and Nitrogen Dynamics in an Organic Highbush Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) Production System
Burkhard, N. E. . 2007. Dalhousie University
Abstract
A study in the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia was initiated to assess the use of
mulch and fertility treatments for organically-managed highbush blueberry (HBB) and
their impact on weed growth and N acquisition, HBB growth, leaf tissue nutrient content,
berry yield and quality, and soil acidity, moisture, temperature, and mineral N dynamics
(using KC1 extraction and PRS®-probes). Results from the 2-yr study indicate that
20 cm of pine-needle mulch provided the most effective weed control. Weeds were a
significant competitor for soil mineral N and caused reductions in HBB growth, leaf
tissue N content and berry yield. Distribution of weed species was altered by mulch
treatment. Mulches increased plant canopy volume, soil moisture and reduced soil
temperature extremes. Seafood waste compost increased soil mineral N and leaf tissue N.
Results from this research support the use of pine-needle mulch for weed control in
organic HBB production systems.
