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ARS Home » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #226485
Title: Nitrogen Management for Irrigated Corn

Author
item MADDUX, LARRY - KS ST U, TOPEKA, KS
item Halvorson, Ardell

Submitted to: International Plant Nutrition Institute (IPNI) Agronomy Information Bulletin
Publication Type: Popular Publication
Publication Acceptance Date: 10/16/2008
Publication Date: 12/1/2008
Citation: Maddux, L.D., Halvorson, A.D. 2008. Nitrogen Management for Irrigated Corn. International Plant Nutrition Institute (IPNI) Agronomy Information Bulletin. In W.M. Stewart and W.B. Gordon (eds). Fertilizing for Irrigated Corn: Guide to Best Management Practices. p. 3-1 to 3-6.

Interpretive Summary: Nitrogen (N) application to irrigated corn in the Central Great Plains of the U.S. is essential for attaining optimum yield potential and economic returns on most soils. The purpose of this document was to discuss N management strategies for irrigated corn in the Central Great Plain. Applying the right N source, at the right rate, in the right place, at the right time are key management decisions for optimizing corn yields and economic returns while achieving efficient use of the N applied. Soil testing for residual soil nitrate-N is critical for adjusting N application rates to corn to minimize over-fertilization with N and for achieving efficient use of the N applied. Management strategies for obtaining optimum corn yields and efficient N use with different soil types, irrigation systems, tillage management, crop rotations, and N sources are discussed. Research results from Central Great Plains irrigated corn studies are used as examples to support the discussion points. This document is intended for use by farmers, fertilizer dealers, and crop consultants in managing N in irrigated corn fields.

Technical Abstract: Nitrogen (N) application to irrigated corn in the Central Great Plains of the U.S. is essential for attaining optimum yield potential and economic returns on most soils. The purpose of this document was to discuss N management strategies for irrigated corn in the Central Great Plain. Applying the right N source, at the right rate, in the right place, at the right time are key management decisions for optimizing corn yields and economic returns while achieving efficient use of the N applied. Soil testing for residual soil nitrate-N is critical for adjusting N application rates to corn to minimize over-fertilization with N and for achieving efficient use of the N applied. Management strategies for obtaining optimum corn yields and efficient N use with different soil types, irrigation systems, tillage management, crop rotations, and N sources are discussed. Research results from Central Great Plains irrigated corn studies are used as examples to support the discussion points. This document is intended for use by farmers, fertilizer dealers, and crop consultants in managing N in irrigated corn fields.