In furrow starter and broadcast phosphorus and potassium fertilization for corn

Abstract

Broadcast fertilization is the most common P and K fertilization method for corn (Zea mays L.) in Iowa and the Corn Belt. However, slow early plant growth typically observed with reduced tillage has made farmers consider the use of starter fertilization. The objectives of this study were (1) to assess corn grain yield, early growth, and early P and K uptake responses to in-furrow liquid starter fertilization and (2) to study the benefits of applying small amounts of in-furrow starter in addition to higher broadcast P and K fertilization rates commonly used by Iowa farmers. Thirteen small-plot trials were established in farmers' fields across Iowa. Initial soil-test P (STP) and K (STK) values varied between sites. Trials compared PK starter fertilization (at rates ranging from 5 to 7 kg P ha' and 10 to 14 kg K ha' across sites), broadcast PK fertilization applied fora 2-year corn-soybean [Glycine Max (L.) Merr.] rotation (49 kg P ha' and 112 kg K ha'), and a combination of both treatments. Nitrogen was applied at rates larger than those recommended to insure the nutrient would be non-limiting. Yield, early corn growth, and PK concentration and uptake were measured. Fertilization increased yield at five sites, usually in soil testing low in STP, and the fertilized treatments did not differ (P< 0.05). Fertilization usually increased early growth and nutrient uptake. The small starter rates increased early growth and nutrient uptake more than the

Impact of in-furrow fertilizers on winter wheat grain yield and mineral concentration

“…In-furrow fertilizer applications in non-nutrient-limited soils did not improve grain yield, N or mineral concentration of winter wheat, compared to the N-only control. These findings are similar to Nisly (2018), who reported in-furrow fertilizer applications in grain sorghum also did not increase grain yields, as well as with Karamanos et al (2003) who showed no difference between broadcast and in-furrow applications of P. Yet, when soil nutrients were limited, in-furrow applications may be more capable of managing limitations than traditional broadcast applications, such as the application of P-containing fertilizers in-furrow in low P or low pH soils similar to the N40 and Perkins locations in this study. Bushong et al (2014) and Franzen (2020) also found similar results, where utilizing MAP or DAP sources applied in-furrow in low P soils increased the grain yield of winter wheat compared to broadcasting P fertilizers.…”

“…Traditional fertilizers have been used in-furrow in winter wheat production systems for decades (Olson and Fitts, 1949), but with increased popularity in their use, farmers now have the choice of a variety of new starter fertilizer products that may have yet to be evaluated for use in wheat. In-furrow fertilizers appeal to producers because they allow for applying fertilizer with the seed at planting, which can supply requisite nutrients during germination and emergence, increasing root and plant growth, and lead to increased yields, while reducing the number of field passes (Randall and Hoeft, 1988; Unsworth, 1991; Rhoads and Wright, 1998; Kaiser, 2003). The primary pre-plant fertilizer application method in many no-till production systems is surface broadcasting.…”

“…The primary pre-plant fertilizer application method in many no-till production systems is surface broadcasting. Unincorporated surface applications require time to absorb into the soil solution while applying in-furrow offers increased seedling availability, as well as nutrient retention in the soil (Kaiser, 2003; Grahmann et al ., 2016). By applying nutrients in-furrow there is the potential for growers to increase efficiency, while also decreasing production costs (Mallarino et al ., 2011).…”