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Impact of nitrogen fertilization on soil microbial diversity, its mediated enzyme activities, and stem nematode population in sweet potato fields

Summary

Researchers studied how different amounts of nitrogen fertilizer affect sweet potato growth and soil health. They found that the right amount of nitrogen (64.8 kg per hectare) boosts beneficial soil bacteria and fungi while reducing harmful nematode parasites that damage sweet potatoes. This optimal fertilization level improved yields and plant health by maintaining a better balance of soil microorganisms.

Background

Excessive nitrogen fertilization in sweet potato cultivation negatively impacts soil health by altering microbial community diversity, enzyme activities, and increasing stem nematode damage risk. Soil microorganisms and their enzymes play crucial roles in organic matter decomposition and nutrient availability, responding rapidly to environmental changes including fertilization.

Objective

This study investigated the effects of different nitrogen application rates on sweet potato yield, microbial community structure, enzyme activities, and stem nematode incidence in a five-year continuous cropping system in Northeast China.

Results

Optimal nitrogen fertilization at 64.8 kg ha⁻¹ (N10 treatment) significantly promoted beneficial microbial populations, enhanced soil urease activity by 41.37%, and reduced stem nematode disease incidence from 55% to 28.33% while maintaining high yields. The N10 treatment increased bacterial populations by 42.8% compared to control and significantly altered microbial community structure with enriched Sphingomonas and Gemmatimonas genera.

Conclusion

Nitrogen fertilization significantly influences soil microbial community structure and enzymatic activities in continuous-cropping sweet potato fields. Optimal nitrogen application at 64.8 kg ha⁻¹ enriches beneficial microbial populations, enhances urease activity, and reduces stem nematode disease, serving as a microbiome-based strategy for sustainable disease management and maintaining crop productivity.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Field Trial,
  • Source: PMID: 40303474, DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2025.1528575
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