Several field studies are underway in Mississippi to explore which lignocellulosic bioenergy crops grow best in the state. The locations for the field studies include: the North and South Farms on Mississippi State's main campus, Brown Loam Experiment Station, Coastal Plain Experiment Station, and the Pontotoc Ridge-Flatwoods Experiment Station. These studies are also examining different cropping systems for certain species to find the most efficient method for growing lignocellulosic crops. One of the methods specifically utilizes total biomass in a season by having two harvests per growing season. Fertilizer N rates are also being examined to determine the optimum amount of N needed to maximize biomass. Fertilizer N rates are important because the amount of fertilizer applied affects the cost of production. The researchers involved in these studies are working to help identify which lignocellulosic crops could be grown in Mississippi as feedstocks as well as economical methods to grow the crops. The resulting data will be beneficial to Mississippi farmers/producers looking to grow biomass crops.
Right- Student researchers collect plant height data on Giant Miscanthus at the South Farm Mississippi State Main Campus
“Nitrogen Uptake, Residual Effects, and N Translocation in Alamo Switchgrass Measured by 15N-labelled Fertilizer”
Dr. Rocky Lemus/Dr. Jac Varco
“Herbicidal effects on switchgrass seed using seed safening practices”
Dr. Brian Baldwin
“Screening of switchgrass seed to aid in Imazapic herbicidal resistance”
Dr. Brian Baldwin
“Varietal evaluation of switchgrass and Miscanthus species at Brown Loam and Newton locations”
Dr. Bisoondat Macoon
“Study on switchgrass harvest height and N fertilizer management”
Dr. Bisoondat Macoon
“Agronomic Systems for Bioenergy Feedstock Production in Mississippi”
Dr. Mark Shankle
“Seed Production Potential of Switchgrass in the southeast USA”
Dr. David Lang
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