Abstract: The rates of nitrification and denitrification in Phyllostachys violascens stand with and without mulching were measured by the barometric separation process technology (BaPS), and basic soil physicochemical properties were evaluated after covering 30, 60, and 90 d. The results showed that both mulching and covering duration had a significant impact on nitrification and denitrification, and these two factors interacted with each other. Mulching enhanced denitrification, but prolonged mulching inhibited nitrification. In general, mulching reduced the correlation between the rates of nitrification and denitrification and soil physicochemical properties. Meanwhile, it diversified and complicated the major environmental factors on nitrification and denitrification. Our results suggest that mulching could affect soil nitrogen cycling processes in the P. violascens stand, increasing nitrogen loss in the soil.

Key words: application dosage, active ingredient, fungicide, greenhouse gas, insecticide, biological pesticide, herbicide