| ABSTRACT: A study was conducted to evaluate the solubilization and nitrogen (N) use efficiency (NUE) of controlled release nitrogen fertilizers in irrigated rice, compared to urea. It was developed under semi-controlled conditions, including five treatments: Control, Splitted Urea (pre-sowing and topdressing), Pre-sowing urea, and Polymer Coated Urea (PCU) with 60-day and 90-day release. PCUs did not maintain high NH4 + and NO3 - levels in solution over a longer period than urea. NUE of PCUs was similar to uncoated urea, not increasing nutrient release in irrigated rice field. |
