Efecto de distintas fuentes de nitrógeno con y sin inhibidores sobre las propiedades químicas del suelo y parámetros agronómicos en el cultivo de banano.

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different nitrogen sources, with and without inhibitors, on soil chemical properties and agronomic parameters in banana (Musa AAA) cultivation under tropical conditions of Ecuador’s coastal region. As the country’s leading agricultural export, bananas require efficient nitrogen management to optimize yield and minimize environmental impacts due to their high nutritional demand. In intensive systems, nitrogen overapplication often leads to leaching losses, soil acidification, and greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, technologies such as stabilized fertilizers and urease and nitrification inhibitors were analyzed. The research was conducted at the Sarahí farm, using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with six treatments and four replications. Evaluated variables included agronomic traits (root mass, leaf count, height, and stem diameter), soil chemical properties (pH, EC, NO₃⁻, NH₄⁺), productive indicators (bunch weight, fruit diameter, finger length), and economic parameters (net income and benefit/cost ratio). Results showed that, although not all variables presented statistical significance, treatments with nitrification inhibitors (DMPP) and sulfur-coated urea (SCU) showed improved agronomic performance and higher yields (up to 73.3 lb per plant), as well as more efficient nitrogen use. Economically, controlled-release technologies achieved B/C ratios above 13, significantly outperforming conventional urea. They also reduced nitrate leaching and helped stabilize soil pH, underscoring their contribution to sustainable banana production. It is recommended to incorporate enhanced nitrogen sources in areas vulnerable to nutrient loss, regularly monitor soil nitrogen forms, and conduct long-term studies on their effects on soil microbiota and sustained yield. The rational use of stabilized fertilizers offers a viable path toward increasing banana productivity, preserving soil health, and minimizing environmental impact in intensive farming systems.