Bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum) is the predominant pasture grass in Florida and occupies over 1 million ha in the state. Fertilization with soluble Ν sources is usually performed in order to increase forage yield and quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate biosolids as an alternative slow release nitrogen source for bahiagrass. The effects of application of 7 rates of granular municipal biosolids, ranging from 0 to 17.6 Mg ha"1, were studied on field plots of an established bahiagrass pasture. Forage and soil samples (to 90 cm) were collected monthly for analysis of macronutrients and selected metals. Significant increases in forage yield, protein content and IVOMD were obtained with rates higher than 2.2 Mg biosolids ha"1. Over 60% of the Ν contained in the biosolids were recovered in the forage in the first year of application. Soil pH and conductivity were not affected by biosolids and NH4-N and N03 -N concentrations in soil samples were below 1 mg kg'1. Increases in plant or soil metal contents were not substantial to yield environmental concerns. This study has demonstrated that biosolids are a safe alternative source of nitrogen for pasture grasses grown in Florida.
