By Scout Nelson
The University of Minnesota's Southern Research and Outreach Center (SROC) in Waseca recently conducted a study to determine the viability of applying supplemental nitrogen (N) fertilizer to corn crops after a notably wet spring in southern Minnesota.
This region experienced rainfall well above historical averages, prompting concerns about nitrogen loss due to leaching and denitrification, which could potentially impact crop yields negatively.
Researchers at SROC launched an impromptu study in mid-July, administering three different levels of supplemental nitrogen (0, 40, and 80 pounds per acre) to two cornfields. These fields had previously received 140 and 160 pounds of N per acre, respectively, and were in the V13 growth stage at the time of the supplemental application. The treatments used included urea with a urease inhibitor and UAN applied directly to the corn rows.
The outcomes revealed that both fields, despite their initial poor appearance and growth challenges due to the excess water, showed improved yields with supplemental nitrogen. Field A yielded an average of 226 bushels per acre, while Field B produced around 210 bushels per acre.
Incremental increases in yield were noted with higher nitrogen applications; however, the yield increase from 40 to 80 pounds of N per acre was not statistically significant, suggesting diminishing returns at higher application rates.
Economically, the return on investment for supplemental nitrogen was modest. The cost analysis highlighted that a 40-pound N application was the most cost-effective strategy. This approach provided a reasonable yield boost at a lower cost compared to the 80-pound rate, considering the price of nitrogen at $0.50 per pound and additional costs for application ranging from $15 to $25 per acre.
This study underlines the importance of strategic nitrogen management in corn production, especially in seasons affected by heavy rainfall.
It also emphasizes the need for farmers to consider both agronomic and economic factors when deciding on supplemental nitrogen applications to ensure profitability and resource efficiency in their crop management practices.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-dszc
Categories: Minnesota, Crops, Corn, Weather