Nodulation, Growth and Soybean Yield in Response to Seed Coating and Split Application of Phosphorus

Phosphorus is one of the most important nutrients for soybeans, but it presents a complex dynamic in the soil and can become unavailable. The split and localized application of this nutrient can be an effective approach to increase its availability. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a split phosphorus dose applied to the soil and the seed coating with monobasic sodium phosphate on nodulation, growth and yield components of soybean cultivar BRS Valiosa RR. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse in a completely randomized design in a 2x5x3 factorial arrangement, i.e., coating or not the seeds; five doses of phosphorus applied to the soil; and three times of splitting phosphate fertilizer. Phosphorus content in the index leaf (IL), dry matter of shoots, roots and nodules, yield components, and plant height were evaluated. There was an increase in nodulation and growth of plants with increased levels of phosphorus applied to the soil. In smaller doses, the seed coating and the splitting of phosphorus fertilizer increased nodulation, growth and yield components of plants. Thus, the splitting of the phosphorus dose, combined with seed coating, is indicated for increasing the yield components of soybean plants.