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Re: Nitrogen fixing beans




In article <MOD$971004.17893@rec.gardens.ecosystems>, Paul Dietz
<dietz@interaccess.com> wrote:
 
> I am given to understand that the ability of legumes to form
> nodules (and thus the rate at which they fix nitrogen) varies
> considerably between species. 

[snip]

It varies considerably with soil conditions too.  If there's enough fixed N
already in the soil to keep the legume happy, it won't contract with the
bacteria for the extra boost.  The bacteria don't fix the N for free; it's
expensive for the legume to provide the nodules and extra carbon.
-- 
Allyn Weaks  allyn@u.washington.edu
PNW Native Wildlife Gardening:  http://chemwww.chem.washington.edu/natives/
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