NITROGEN PLACEMENT DURING SIDEDRESSING - 2019

• There is an interest in better understanding nitrogen (N) placement during sidedressing and the potential effect on N uptake and yield. 

• Nitrogen is a substantial cost in corn production. Understanding the optimal placement of sidedressed N can help farmers determine the application method best suited for their operation. 

   

• A 114-day RM SmartStax® RIB Complete® corn blend product was selected for this trial.

• The form of N used for all treatments was 32-0-0 UAN.

• 80 lb N/acre was applied prior to planting and incorporated.

• 100 lb N/acre was sidedressed with a urease inhibitor. Two sidedressing methods were used on June 26, 2019 at the V6 growth stage. 

  • A rolling coulter applied N in the center of the row (Figure 1).
    
  • A 360 Y-DROP® system applied N next to the base of the plants (Figures 2 and 3).
    

• This trial included four replications.

• This trial has been conducted at the Bayer Learning Center at Monmouth, IL over the last four years (from 2016-2019). 

• At this location, no clear advantage to either N application method has been seen at V6.

• This year at this location dry conditions followed application, but the data shows no effect with applying the N directly beside the row.  

• The timing for a rolling coulter application can be limited due to the height of the corn crop.

• 360 Y-DROP® can allow a wider application window for sidedressing later in the season.

• Yield differences may not be economically feasible when all costs are considered. Consider all local costs when making N management decisions.

• Individual corn products may have different responses to N application timing. Consult your local Field Sales Representative or Technical Agronomist for recommendations. 

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