University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources

October 27, 2006

What’s new in nitrogen fertilizer use for corn?

 We conducted 34 irrigated corn trials across Nebraska this summer to assess nitrogen recommendations. All trials had maximum treatment yields above 180 bu/ac and 14 had maximum yields above 240 bu/ac. The results confirm the validity of the UNL nitrogen rate equation and provide a basis for adjusting nitrogen rate for time of application and for the prices of corn and nitrogen. The potential for nitrogen loss is greatest with all nitrogen applied in the fall and least if at least 50% of the nitrogen is applied in-season.

A calculator tool has been developed which enables comparison of the cost of alternative nitrogen management scenarios with differing corn and nitrogen prices. The calculator can be downloaded from the New Nitrogen Fertilizer Recommendations for Irrigated Corn section of the UNL Soil Fertility Web site.

Charles Wortmann
Extension Soils Specialist

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Copyright 2006 by the University of Nebraska Board of Regents. All rights reserved.
Published by University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension in the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources Cooperating with the counties and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
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