Nitrogen fertilizer management for efficient use by dry bean in tropical lowland

The objective of this work was to evaluate the response and efficiency of N applied to bean cultivars in lowland soils. A completely randomized desing comprising six replicates, with split plots consisting of N management treatments, and the subplots consisting of cultivars, was used. Application of total N in furrow at sowing caused saline effect of fertilizer on seeds, and reduced the crop stand. Total N applied and incorporated in the furrow at sowing, as well as 15 days after emergence between rows, was more effective compared to fertilizer applied in broadcast or incorporated into the soil by ploughing before sowing, regarding grain yield. There was diversity among cultivars in relation to the efficiency of N use. Cultivar BRS Pontal was more productive, indicating high adaptability to tropical lowland environment. Nitrogen use efficiency was higher in medium growth cycle cultivars compared to early maturing cultivars. Grain yield was positively associated with agronomic efficiency, recovery and utilization efficiencies. Grain yield and N use efficiency by cultivars differ according to N fertilizer management.