November 11, 2020
TRIAL OBJECTIVE
Nitrogen (N) is an expensive yet necessary input in corn systems.
Proper N application rates can help maximize corn yield potential and efficiency while minimizing environmental losses.
Corn products may have different responses to additional N.
This trial evaluated corn product yield response to N application rate.
RESEARCH SITE DETAILS
| Location | Monmouth, Il | ||
| Soil Type | Silt loam | ||
| Previous Crop | Soybean | ||
| Tillage Type | Conventional |
| Planting Date | 5/13/20 | ||
| Harvest Date | 10/9/20 | ||
| Potential Yield (bu/acre) | 250 | ||
| Seeding Rate (seeds/acre) | 36K |
- Treatments consisted of eight corn products planted at 36,000 seeds/acre with three different N rates applied:
- 0 lbs/acre
- 120 lbs/acre
- 240 lbs/acre
- Nitrogen in the form of 32% urea and ammonium nitrate (UAN) (32-0-0) was applied preplant and incorporated.
- Plots were harvested and adjusted to 15% moisture
- There were three replications of each treatment.
UNDERSTANDING THE RESULTS
Table 1. Average yield response and return of additional nitrogen ($/acre) by corn product and nitrogen treatment (120 lbs N/acre and 240 lbs N/acre). Calculation assumes a $3.53/bu corn market price and $.40/lb for N.
Response to N rate treatments varied by corn product.
When factoring in N cost, increasing N rate was not always profitable.
KEY LEARNINGS
Many factors, including product genetic background, soil type, weather, previous crop, tillage, etc., can influence the yield response and profitability potential of a N application.
It is important to consider yield goals and N cost when making management decisions.
Response to N can vary from year to year. Consult your local Field Sales Representative or Technical Agronomist for recommendations for your farm.
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