Should farmers apply fertilizer according to when their daffodils are in flower? Utilizing a "farmer-science" approach to understanding the impact of soil temperature on spring N fertilizer application in Wales.

摘要: Perennial ryegrass starts growing when soil temperatures reach 5.5°C for five consecutive days; applying N fertiliser before this risks environmental losses. To test whether daffodil flowering signified to apply fertiliser, farmers volunteered take part in a citizen‐science study. The PROSOIL project used ‘citizen science’, participatory approach create farmer‐informed science, aiming increase awareness of the importance health. In 2014, over 300 completed “How do you manage your soil” survey. survey included question on use daffodils (Narcissus spp) indicate best time first nitrogen season, based anecdotal feedback from involved project. recorded 7% their application flowered. farmer temperatures, we provided them with thermometers, held workshops and hosted interactive stands at agricultural events 2014. autumn planted bulbs same variety, across Wales, monitored temperatures. Farmers returned postcards once were flower, noting temperature. An assessment date could was made. Overall, spring 2015, flowered temperature 6.4(±0.35)°C, suggesting is more reliable indicator application, than hypothesised. Findings show scientific validation local knowledge, regarding “not‐before” application.