Upland rice, common bean, and cowpea response to magnesium application on an oxisol

Even though Mg is an essential nutrient. the response of upland rice, common bean, and cowpea to Mg application has not been adequately documented in Brazilian oxisols. This study was conducted to examine the influence of Mg application on growth and nutrient uptake by upland rice (Oryza sativa L.), common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) on an oxisol. Magnesium levels in the soil were created at sowing by application of MgO at rates of 0.30, 1.05, 1.15, 1.33, 3.52, and 6.22 cmol Mg/kg of soil. Application of Mg did not have a significant beneficial effect on dry weight of roots and tops of rice and cowpea. Common bean root and top dry weights were increased with Mg applications up to 1 cmol Mg/kg of soil. Uptake of N, P, K, Ca, Cu, Zn, Fe, and Mn by the three crops was significantly (P < 0.01) decreased by increasing Mg levels in the soil. Results related to changes in chemical properties of soil with the application of Mg are also presented.