Residual effect of sewage sludge-based organomineral fertilizer application on maize crop grown in the Cerrado region

Abstract

Considering the current mineral fertilizer crisis in Brazil, studies are needed to seek alternatives to reduce external dependence on these products, ensuring food security. Organomineral fertilizers (OMFs) containing sewage sludge can improve soil health, increase agricultural production, and mitigate negative environmental impacts. The objective of this study was to evaluate the residual effect of OMFs derived from sewage sludge on soil chemical properties and of the productivity of a second maize crop grown in the Cerrado region. A field experiment will be conducted in Selvíria/MS, using a 3 x 2 + 3 factorial structure in a randomized complete block design, with four replicates. Three physical forms of OMF (mash, granulated, and pelleted), two rates of OMF (70% and 100% of the established rate for mineral fertilization based on P2O5 content), and three additional treatments: I) mineral fertilization (MF), II) sewage sludge application (SS), and III) control (C, without OMFs, MF, and SS application) will be investigated. Soil samples will be collected (0.0-0.2 m soil layer) before experiment installation and at the end of crop harvest to evaluate macro and micronutrient concentrations and the following chemical properties: pH, H+Al, Al3+, organic matter, cation-exchange capacity, sum of bases, and base saturation. Nutritional analysis, some biometric parameters, and grain yield will be used to evaluate agronomic performance of maize. The results obtained will advance our knowledge of the most efficient ways to manage OMF application to optimize maize productivity. This research aligns with the "2030 Agenda" of the United Nations to promote the "Sustainable Development Goals". (AU)