2013 Contract Research Report

Transcription

1 2013 Contract Research Report While the North Central Research Station is the main proving ground of crop nutrition, it is by no means the only location for Liquid nutrient testing on crops. Research with AgroLiquid is conducted around the country on a variety of crops. Why? Well the main reason is that we can t grow crops like cotton in Michigan. (Although we have tried several times.) But it is important to conduct replicated test plots on crops like cotton where they are normally grown in order to develop recommendations and product support data. Additionally, research is conducted using contract researchers on more widely grown crops like corn, soybeans and wheat in order to test product performance under different soil and environmental conditions. Plus, people like to have data from closer to where they live. What do we mean by Contract Research? This is a term used in agribusiness to refer to product research conducted under scientific methods, like plot randomization with replications and data analysis. There are businesses around the country where qualified researchers conduct tests for producers of seed, chemical, fertilizer and other agricultural inputs. We have used some of these contract researchers for years. Additionally, research is conducted at several different universities as well, and those results are posted here. Because the nutrient formulations of AgroLiquid are so unique, quality research is all the more necessary to prove performance and ensure grower and dealer confidence. So take a look at this year s offerings of research from around the country and hopefully you ll find something from near where you live. Jerry L. Wilhm, Ph.D. Senior Research Manager.

2 Contract Research Table of Contents Contract Research Fertilizer Application Comparison in Soybeans ACRES. Cedar Falls, IA Fertilizer Programs for High-Yield Strip-Till Soybeans Irrigation Research Foundation. Yuma, CO Fertilizer Comparisons for Effect on Sugarbeet Yield. Irrigation Research Foundation. Yuma, CO Liquid Nitrogen Comparisons in DNS Wheat Hubbard Ag Science. Moscow, ID Fertilizer Program Comparisons in Dryland Corn Security Seed & Chemical Research Farm. Nitrogen Application Options in Dryland Cotton. R&D Research Farm. Washington, LA Fertilizer Program Comparisons in Dryland Cotton. R&D Research Farm. Washington, LA Fertilizer Program Comparisons in Soybeans. R&D Research Farm. Washington, LA Timing of Winter Wheat Fertilizer Applications. Ron Mulford, Univ of MD Poplar Hill Research Center Effect of N Solutions on Spring Wheat Yield and Protein. Northern Plains Ag Research. Gardner, ND Fertilizer Program Comparison in Spring Wheat. Northern Plains Ag Research. Gardner, ND Nitrogen Comparisons in Furrow-Irrigated Corn. Real Farm Research. Aurora, NE Planter Fertilizer Comparisons in Irrigated Corn. Real Farm Research. Aurora, NE Nitrogen Placement Comparison in Corn. South Dakota Ag Research. Lesterville, SD Fertilizer Program Evaluations in Corn. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and University, Blacksburg.

3 Fertilizer Application Comparison in Soybeans ACRES. Cedar Falls, IA Planted: 6/1 Variety: NuTech 7240 Population: 53 lbs Row Spacing: 30 Previous Crop: Corn Plot Size: 4 rows x 30 : 4 Foliar: 7/15 Harvested: 10/4 ph: 5.8 CEC: 23.8 % OM: 4.1 Bray P1: 24 K: 155 S: 13 % K: 1.7 % Mg: 16.9 % Ca: 62.5 % H: bu Fertilizer Rate: Compare different fertilizers applied pre-plant, with planter or as foliar for effect on soybean yield. Soybean fertilization is often a challenge. Can soybeans obtain enough fertilizer left over from the previous corn crop? Can planter-applied fertilizers be effective? Foliar-applied fertilizers have shown promise, but can be inconsistent. Spring applied potash may not have time to break down and feed the crop. An attempt to answer all of these questions was conducted in an experiment at ACRES research farm in Northeastern Iowa. The soil test indicated a decent P level, but the K level was on the low side according to the base saturation level of 1.7%. Different fertilizers were applied either pre-plant broadcast and incorporated (potash), through the planter (Sure-K and experimental product K-10) or foliar applied at the R1 stage, 32 days after planting. Several fertilizers were foliar applied, including some experimental products like FK-12 (mostly potassium) and FHP-12 (mostly phosphorus). The PTS product is Protriastim, an organic growth stimulant. Yield results appear in the following chart. no fertilizer Planter: In-Furrow Sure-K + Micro gal + 1 qt K-10 + Micro gal + 1 qt Foliar: R1 Sure-K 3 gal Sure-K + Mn 3 gal + 1 qt Sure-K + ferti-rain 2 gal + 1 gal Sure-K + PTS 3 gal + 2 oz FK-12 3 gal FK-12 + FHP-12 1 gal + 1 gal Broadcast PPI potash 100 lb LSD(0.05): 6.7. LSD(0.2): 4.2. CV: 8.6% Fertilizer Comparisons in Soybeans ACRES Research, Cedar Falls, IA Yield: Bu/A Average of All treatments yields were very good for the year, especially being planted late on June 1. The planter-applied fertilizers did not have a significant effect on yield. Several of the foliar fertilizers did have a yield increase. These yields were comparable to that of the potash application. The experimental products FK-12 + FHP-12 as a foliar application resulted in the highest yield by far. The yields of this treatment were highest of all treatments in each of the three replications used in this experiment. This shows promise and will be thoroughly researched in the future.

4 Fertilizer Programs for High-Yield Strip-Till Soybeans Irrigation Research Foundation. Yuma, CO Planted: 5/23 Variety: NK S28-K1 Population: 220,000 Row Spacing: 30 Previous Crop: Corn Plot Size: 4 rows x 500 : 1 Strip: 4/8 Harvest: 10/8 Compare a high yield AgroLiquid fertilizer program for soybeans against a standard conventional. The Irrigation Research Foundation (IRF) is a non-profit research farm set up for the purpose of agricultural research under intensive crop management in Northeastern Colorado. Strip tillage is the leading cultural practice in this area. An Orthman 1TripR is the implement used for the strip tillage and fertilizer application in the strips. Additional fertilizer is added in 2x2 placement in the 30 inch rows. There is also nitrogen solution fertilizer applied through overhead sprinkler irrigation. So the soybean crop is well fertilized and a high yield is expected. In this simple experiment, two different fertilizer programs were compared: a standard IRF program and an AgroLiquid program. Treatments are listed in the chart. Conventional nutrition was applied in a total of 35.5 gal/a compared to only 12.5 total gallons per acre of AgroLiquid nutrition. It was hot and dry as usual in this part of Colorado, and irrigation is critical. A total of inches of water was applied during the growing season. Treatment yields appear below. Fertilizer Programs for High-Yield Strip-Till Soybeans Irrigation Research Foundation. Yuma, CO ph: 7.1 CEC: 11.8 % OM: 1.2 IRF Standard Strip Till: : 10 4" and 13 10" 2x2: S-0.1Zn: 12.5 gal/a Total N-P2O5-K2O per acre: from 35.5 gal of fertilizer per acre 70.9 Bicarb P: 8 K: 369 S: 6 % K: 8 % Mg: 24 % Ca: 67 % H: 0 % Na: 1 Zn: 1.9 Mn: 4.6 B: 0.5 AgroLiquid Strip Till: 4 gal High NRG-N + 3 gal Pro-Germinator + 2 gal access + 14 gal water/a: 10 4" and 15 2x2: 3 gal/a High NRG-N + 3 gal/a Pro-Germinator + 2 qt/a Micro 500. Per acre: 7 gal High NRG-N + 6 gal Pro-Germinator + 2 gal access + 2 qt Micro 500 (Total: 15.5 gal of fertilizer/a) Non-replicated strip trial Stip-Till applications applied with Orthman 1TripR, with two application depths: 4 and 10 inches. Additional fertilizer applied to test site through sprinker irrigaton: 32% UAN - 10 gal/a on 6/26 and 6 gal/a on 7/3 The AgroLiquid fertilizer program resulted in 14 more bushels of soybeans per acre compared to the IRF standard, even though only 43% of the total application volume was applied bu Fertilizer Rate:

5 Fertilizer Comparisons for Effect on Sugarbeet Yield Irrigation Research Foundation. Yuma, CO Planted: 4/30 Variety: Hilleshog 9173 Population: 45,000 Row Spacing: 30 Previous Crop: Wheat Plot Size: 4 rows x 400 : 1 Strip: 4/5 Harvested: 10/30 Compare high quality AgroLiquid crop nutrition and conventional fertilizers for effects on yield and quality of sugarbeets. The Irrigation Research Foundation (IRF) is a non-profit research farm set up for the purpose of agricultural research under intensive crop management in Northeastern Colorado. Strip tillage is the leading cultural practice in this area. An Orthman 1TripR is the implement used for the strip tillage and fertilizer application in the strips. It places liquid fertilizer in at two depths: four and ten inches deep. This is to ensure fertilizer is in the root zone as it grows. Additional fertilizer is added in 2x2 placement in the 30 inch rows. There is also nitrogen solution fertilizer applied through overhead sprinkler irrigation. Sugarbeets are a major crop in this part of Colorado, and the IRF uses a standard fertilizer program developed for sugarbeets. Based on soil test, an AgroLiquid program was developed and applied for comparison in adjacent plots. Treatment descriptions and yields are in the following chart. (Note: due to heat stress during the growing season, the yields are lower than in previous years, but the comparisons are still valid.) Fertilizer Program Comparisons in Irrigated Sugarbeets Irrigated Research Foundation. Yuma, CO % sugar / lb Raw White Sugar per Acre ph: 7.2 CEC: 13.3 IRF Standard Strip Till: : 10 4" and 13 10" 2x2: : 12.5 gal/a 14.9% / % OM: 1.5 Bicarb: 10 K: 355 S: 8 % K: 6.8 % Mg: 22 % Ca: 70 AgroLiquid Strip Till: 7 gal High NRG-N gal Pro-Germinator + 2 gal access gal water/a: 10 4" and 13 2x2: 3 gal/a High NRG-N gal/a Pro-Germinator + 2 qt/a Micro % / % H: 0 % Na: 1 Zn: 1.5 Mn: 6 B: 0.5 N: 32 lb 30 Ton Fertilizer Rate: Non-replicated strip trial Yield - Tons/A Stip-Till applications applied with Orthman 1TripR, with two application depths: 4 and 10 inches. Additional fertilizer applied to test site through sprinker irrigaton: 32% UAN Highest yield, higher sugar content and higher sugar per acre was obtained with the high quality nutrition from the AgroLiquid program. The result in 2013 is consistent with previous test results, indicating consistency of performance.

6 Liquid Nitrogen Comparisons in DNS Wheat Hubbard Ag Science. Moscow, ID Planted: 5/2 Variety: Bullseye Population: 85 lbs Row Spacing: 7.5 Plot Size: 8 x 35 : 4 PPI.: 5/1 Harvest: 9/18 Compare different nitrogen sources and sulfur additives for effects on yield of DNS spring wheat. One option for nitrogen application to spring wheat is to shank it in with a tillage tool. Such was the case for treatment application in this experiment evaluating several different solution N sources and some sulfur additives for effect on yield. Treatments were applied through tubes on the shanks of a field cultivator such that final band spacing was six inches apart and approximately six inches deep. The N sources were 32% UAN, 32% UAN with enhance, and aqua ammonia (20-0-0, 1.5 lb-n/gal). Additives tested for sulfur were S-Calate (14% S and 1% Ca), access (17% S plus iron, manganese, zinc), enhance (8.75% S plus manganese and zinc) and ammonium thio-sulfate (or ATS: S). The target N rate was 90 lb/a. Yield results appear in the following chart. N rate/a and source Nitrogen Comparisons in DNS (Spring) Wheat Hubbard Ag Research. Moscow, ID gal 32% 26 gal 32%/eN Average of 4 ph: gal 32% + 3 gal SCal 86 CEC: 16.9 % OM: 3.1 Bray P1: gal 32%/eN + 3 gal SCal 21 gal 32%/eN + 3 gal SCal K: gal 32% + 3 gal access 85.3 S: 8 26 gal 32% gal ATS 83.7 % K: 10.2 Zn: gal Aqua ammonia 85 Mn: gal Aqua + enhance bu Fertilizer Rate: LSD(0.05): LSD(0.1): LSD(0.2): 8.1. CV: 14.5% (There was higher than desired variability here.) Nitrogen fertilizer treatments applied with tubes attached to shanks of a field cultivator. The N bands were spaced 6 inches apart and were 6 inches deep. Abbreviation key: 32%=32% UAN; en= enhance at 2.25 gal/ton; SCal= SCalate; ATS=ammonium thio-sulfate. There was a step-wise increase in yield over straight 32% UAN with the additions of enhance, S-Calate, and then both enhance and S-Calate, which resulted in the highest yield in the experiment. Reducing the rate of 32% UAN from 26 to 21 gal/a with additives enhance and S-Calate still resulted in a significantly higher yield than the higher rate of 32% UAN with no additives (88.5 Bu/A vs Bu/A). Addition of access to straight 32% UAN resulted in a significant yield increase, where ATS increased yield, but not statistically higher. The addition of enhance (37 fluid oz/a) to aqua ammonia resulted in an unexplained yield reduction. Have not had much success with addition of enhance to aqua in the past.

7 Fertilizer Program Comparisons in Dryland Corn Security Seed & Chemical Research Farm. Planted: 5/20 Row Spacing: 30 Previous Crop: Soybeans Plot Size: 6 rows x 400 : 2 ph: 7.1 CEC: 8.8 % OM: 2.3 Bicarb: 15 K: 171 S: 15 % K: 5.0 % Mg: 8.9 % Ca: 84.9 % H: 0 % Na: 1.2 Zn: 2.7 Mn: 10 B: bu Fertilizer Rate: Evaluate several different fertilizer sources and additives for effect on corn yield. Application of essential nutrients is all part of obtaining optimum corn yield. Occasionally the weather is cooperative for exceptional yield, and this is when a well-balanced nutrient program is especially effective. An experiment was established in Western Kentucky to compare base programs of an area conventional program with that of an AgroLiquid program. Additionally, several nutrient additives were included to evaluate effects on yield. The conventional program was a broadcast application of dry , in furrow and then 32% UAN sidedress. The soil test indicated high soil K levels, so the base AgroLiquid program was Pro-Germinator + Micro 500 in furrow and 32% UAN sidedress. Additives to the AgroLiquid program were: enhance with sidedress 32% UAN, enhance in furrow for sulfur, access with the sidedress for sulfur, and Sure-K applied in-furrow with the Pro-Germinator + Micro 500 to see if there is a yield increase in a high soil test K soil. The growing season was exceptionally good for high yield, with timely rainfall and favorable temperatures. Treatment yields appear in the following chart. Planter app.; Sidedress no planter fert; 32% 47 gal ; ; 32% 100 lb; 4 gal; 47 gal preplant Agro; 32% UAN gal; 47 gal Agro; 32%/ en gal; 47 gal Agro + en; 32%/eN + 2 qt; 47 gal Agro; 32%/eN + access gal; 47 gal + 4 gal Agro + SK + en; 32%/eN + 5 gal + 2 qt; 47 gal LSD(0.05): LSD(0.2): 8.4. CV: 6.9% Fertilizer Program Comparisons in Corn Security Seed & Chemical Research Farm. Hopkinsville, KY Planter fertilizer: "Agro": 4 gal/a Pro-Germinator + 2 qt/a Micro pt/a MicroLink Boron applied in-furrow. Sidedress application was surface dribbled between the rows. Average of 2 All full treatment programs yielded significantly higher than the nitrogen only treatment. The AgroLiquid program with 32%/eNhance yielded significantly higher than the conventional treatment of , and 32% UAN. Addition of enhance to the in-furrow treatment resulted in a yield increase, and was evidently more effective than the access addition to the sidedress treatment. Addition of Sure-K to the in-furrow treatment with Pro-Germinator + Micro enhance did increase yield, but only slightly in this high soil test K soil.

8 Nitrogen Application Options in Dryland Cotton R&D Research Farm. Washington, LA Planted: 5/2 Variety: Phy565WRF Population: 40,000 Row Spacing: 38 Previous Crop: Soybeans Plot Size: 4 rows x 30 : 4 PPI.: 5/21 Sidedress: 6/28 Foliar: 8/15 Harvest: 10/10 ph: 6.6 Evaluate different N applications to determine the best product combination for best yield. It may be possible to influence crop yield by application of different nitrogen sources at different times to take advantage of different N source characteristics. High NRG-N is formulated to reduce N losses by reducing volatility and leaching. It is also formulated to release usable nitrogen over an extended period of time compared to other N sources. Thus, it may be a good source of N early in the season to feed over a longer time, but maybe not so much when applied later in the season when crop N demand is more for fast acting nitrogen. The N additive enhance is formulated to enhance nitrogen uptake and translocation while offering some protection from losses, but does not enable controlled release. This experiment evaluated N applications for cotton using High NRG-N and 32% UAN with enhance. Treatments were split where 6 gal/a was applied pre-plant broadcast and incorporated. Another 14 gallons was knifed into the soil at sidedress 37 days after planting when the cotton was 4 inches tall. So one treatment had High NRG-N at both applications, a second had High NRG-N at the first application and 32%/eNhance at the second application, and the third had 32%/eNhance at both applications. Both High NRG-N and 32%/eNhance have similar use rates based on equivalency. Yield results appear in the following chart. N timing and rate: PPI: 6 gal/a Sidedress (SD): 14 gal/a PPI: High NRG-N SD: High NRG-N AgroLiquid Nitrogen Comparisons in Dryland Cotton R&D Research Farm. Washington, LA Average of 4 CEC: 10.4 % OM: 1.7 Bray P1: 37 K: 92 PPI: High NRG-N SD: 32% /enhance 2074 S: 7 % K: 2.1 % Mg: 29.3 % Ca: 60.9 PPI: 32%/eNhance SD: 32%/eNhance 1990 % H: 6 % Na: 1.8 Zn: 1.1 Mn: 30 B: 1 3 bale Fertilizer Rate: LSD(0.2): CV: 7.2% Yield: pounds of lint/a Fertilizer Program - PPI (Preplant broadcast & incorporated): N gal Pro-Germinator + 4 gal Sure-K. Planter In Furrow for all treatments: 3 gal Pro-Germinator + 1 qt Micro 500. The highest lint yield was where High NRG-N was applied in the first application and 32%/ enhance was applied at the second application. This trend has also been observed in corn at the NCRS, suggesting that proper timing of the correct N source may have an advantage. Although admittedly, it may be an inconvenience handling two N sources, it interesting from a research standpoint.

9 Fertilizer Program Comparisons in Dryland Cotton R&D Research Farm. Washington, LA Planted: 5/2 Variety: Phy565WRF Population: 40,000 Row Spacing: 38 Previous Crop: Soybeans Plot Size: 4 rows x 30 : 4 PPI.: 5/21 Sidedress: 6/28 Foliar: 8/15 Harvest: 10/10 Compare conventional fertilizer program to AgroLiquid program for effects on cotton yield. Cotton responds well to fertilizer inputs, particularly under a favorable growing season, as was the case here in East Central Louisiana in One challenge for the use of liquid fertilizers is the fact that cotton can be sensitive to fertilizers placed with the seed. As such, AgroLiquid recommends no more than 3 gal/a of P and K fertilizer be placed in the seed furrow at planting. Without the ability for 2x2 planter placement, it appears that needed fertilizer in excess of 3 gal/a would need to be broadcast. But can this compare to higher rates of conventional fertilizer? This experiment compared a pre-plant broadcast application of conventional dry fertilizer ( ) and sidedress of 32% UAN to a pre-plant broadcast application of High NRG-N + Pro-Germinator + Sure-K; Pro-Germinator + Micro 500 in furrow and then the balance of High NRG-N applied at sidedress. There were additional treatments that evaluated the effects of these same treatments followed by a foliar application of Sure-K at the mid-square stage of growth (prior to flower). The yields far exceeded expectations and are shown in the following chart. N only: 32% UAN: 7 gal PPI; 32% UAN: 17 gal SD Fertilizer Comparisons in Dryland Cotton R&D Research. Washington, LA Average of 4 ph: 6.6 Conventional: : 250 lb PPI; 32% UAN: 17 gal SD 1811 CEC: 10.4 % OM: 1.7 Conventional + Foliar: Sure-K: 3 Midsquare 2116 Bray P1: 37 K: 92 S: 7 AgroLiquid: High-NRG-N + Pro-Germ + Sure-K: 6 gal gal + 4 gal PPI Pro-Germ. + Micro 500: 3 gal + 1 qt High NRG-N: 14 gal SD 1987 % K: 2.1 % Mg: 29.3 AgroLiquid + Foliar: Sure-K: 3 Midsquare 2027 % Ca: 60.9 % H: 6 % Na: 1.8 Zn: 1.1 Mn: 30 B: 1 3 bale Fertilizer Fertilizer Rate: Rate: fertilizer application: Yield: pounds of lint/a Planted on May 21; Sidedress (knifed) on June 28; Foliar on August 15; Harvested on October 10. LSD(0.05): LSD(0.1): LSD(0.2): CV: 7.2% Of the non-foliar treatments, the AgroLiquid far out-yielded the conventional program which did not differ from the N-only treatment. The broadcast portion was effective. The foliar application of Sure-K resulted in a large yield increase of the conventional program. This is likely due to the poor performance of the dry fertilizer as seen by the lack of yield difference vs. the N-only treatment. The foliar provided some needed plant potassium. The foliar application of Sure-K resulted in only a slight yield increase of the AgroLiquid treatment. This has been observed previously in other crops where foliar applications aren t as effective where sufficient nutrition is already present. (There is no statistical difference between the yields of the two foliar treatments.

10 Fertilizer Program Comparisons in Soybeans R&D Research Farm. Washington, LA Experiment Info 2013: Planted: 6/24 Variety: P95Y70 Population: 50 lb Row Spacing: 19 Previous Crop: Soybean Compare effects on soybean yield of different types of fertilizer applications for soybeans. Fertilization of soybeans has several different options from nothing to multiple applications of fertilizer. A common practice is to allow the soybeans to feed on whatever fertilizer is left from the previous crop. Sometimes it is difficult to show a fertilizer response in soybeans. But this experiment was set up to compare no fertilizer, dry fertilizer (potash), potash plus foliar, foliars only and liquid applied at planting. AgroLiquid has developed several effective foliar fertilizers including Sure-K and ferti-rain. Included in this test was an experimental foliar fertilizer called FK-12, of undisclosed analysis. Treatments and yield results appear in the following chart. Plot Size: 6 ft x 30 : 4 Fertlilizer Program Comparisons in Soybeans R&D Research Farm. Washington, LA PPI: 6/23 No fertilizer 39.4 Average of 4 Foliar: 8/15 Harvested: 11/11 Pre-plant incorporated lb/a 46.5 ph: 5.8 CEC: 10.5 % OM: 1.5 Bicarb P: 73 Pre-plant incorporated; Foliar ; Sure-K + Micro lb/a; 3 gal + 1 qt/a Foliar Sure-K + Micro gal + 1 qt/a FK-12 3 gal/a ferti-rain 2 gal/a K: 180 S: 12 % K: 4.1 % Mg: 15.3 % Ca: 60.4 % H: 0 % Na: 1.1 Zn: 0.9 Mn: 43 B: 0.5 Planter (in-furrow) Sure-K + Micro gal + 1 qt/a LSD(0.05): 9.7. LSD(0.2): 6.2. CV: 17.2% Foliar application on August 15 when soybeans were 23 inches tall (applied with 2nd Roundup application). The potash only application showed a yield increase over no fertilizer, but the highest yields were with several different AgroLiquid programs. Addition of foliar fertilizer increased the yield with the potash application. All of the foliar fertilizers produced similar yield to that with planter fertilizer, but at lower applied rates bu Fertilizer Rate:

11 Timing of Winter Wheat Fertilizer Applications Ron Mulford, Univ of MD Poplar Hill Research Center No information at the time of reporting. Compare different AgroLiquid fertilizer application timing compared to University of Maryland recommendations for effect on winter wheat yield. The effectiveness of AgroLiquid fertilizer programs has been well demonstrated in a variety of tests across the country. But not every grower has a drill set up for application of Liquid fertilizers which has led research of other methods of application. Other options are broadcast to the soil ahead of planting and application after wheat emergence in the fall. These treatments were compared to the same fertilizers applied through the drill at planting, and then also to a University of Maryland fertilizer recommendation. Treatment yields appear in the following chart. Winter Wheat Fertilizer Comparisons Univ. of MD Poplar Hill Research Center. Quantico, MD Univ. MD recommendations AgroLiquid fall placement: Preplant broadcast 94 Average of Drill 98.3 broadcast at 2" growth 96.9 appliction: S LSD (0.2): 2.6 CV: 20.6% Univ. MD: Fall Broadcast: 87.5 lb lb ; 12.5 gal gal 30% UAN. 1st and 2nd topdress: 15.5 gal 30% gal water AgroLiquid: Fall: 2.5 gal Pro-Germ. + 5 gal Sure-K + 2 gal access + 2 qt Micro gal 30% UAN/eNhance 1st and 2nd topdress: 15.5 gal 30%/eNhance gal water Surprisingly, the highest yielding treatment was the pre-plant broadcast application of AgroLiquid fertility. However, the drill and post emergence applications produced yields very similar. All AgroLiquid applications were higher in yield than that of the University of Maryland recommendations. This similarity in yields from the different methods of application will enable flexibility for growers to enable matching fertility programs to what works best for them.

12 Effect of N Solutions on Spring Wheat Yield and Protein. Northern Plains Ag Research. Gardner, ND Planted: 5/15 Variety: Population: Prosper 90 lbs Row Spacing: 7.5 Previous Crop: Wheat Plot Size: 10 x 35 : 4 PPI: 5/14 Harvest: 10/11 ph: 7.2 Evaluate the effects of different nitrogen solutions on yield and protein levels of spring wheat. For spring wheat, solution nitrogen is often applied prior to planting and worked into the soil. In this experiment, a target N rate of 80 lb/a was selected. This may be lower than is normally recommended, but previous research at this location has not shown a yield response to higher rates such as 100 lb-n/a. The treatments consisted of three rates/a of 28% with enhance: the target 80 lb-n, the higher 100 lb-n, and a lower rate of 64 lb-n. High NRG-N was applied at the 70% N rate, or 18 gal/a for 56 lb-n/a. Straight 28% UAN served as the conventional standard at 80 lb-n/a. The final treatment evaluated the effects of addition of the 17% sulfur fertilizer access to 28% with enhance. All treatments were combined with 4 gal/a of Pro-Germinator + 1 qt/a of Micro 500. This treatment provided 4 lb-n/a, to bring the total N rate to the rates indicated. Following harvest, samples from each plot were analyzed for % protein. The yields and protein levels appear in the following chart. application: %/eNhance 20 gal (64 lb N) 13.2% 25.3 gal (80 lb N) 13.1% Nitrogen Solution Effect on Spring Wheat Yield and % Protein Northern Plains Ag Research. Gardner, ND Average of 4 CEC: 17 % OM: gal (100 lb N) 13.3% 52.8 Bicarb P: 7 K: 375 S: 5.5 % K: 5.6 % Mg: 20.2 % Ca: 73 High NRG-N 18 gal (56 lb N) 28% UAN 25.3 gal (80 lb N) 28%/eNhance + access gal (80 lb N) 13.2% 12.8% 14.2% % H: 0 % Na: 1.2 Zn: 0.5 Mn: 4 B: bu Fertilizer Rate: LSD (0.2): 2.6 CV: 20.6% All treatments were applied pre-plant incorporated with stream nozzles in combination with 4 gal/a Pro-Germinator + 1 qt/a Micro 500 Apparently the selection of 80 lb-n/a was the proper choice as the yield with 100 lb-n/a with 28%/eNhance was essentially the same as that of the 80 lb-n/a rate. But there was a significant yield drop when the rate was decreased to 64 lb-n/a. The 80 lb-n/a rate of 28%/eNhance was higher in yield and protein than that with the same rate of 28% without enhance. The yield produced with an application of 80% of N, or 64 lb-n/a with 28%/eNhance was close to that of the conventional 80 lb-n/rate. Yield with High NRG-N was lower than expected, perhaps due to soil incorporation which favored performance of the other N source. (Reduced opportunity for volatility loss.) Addition of access sulfur to the full rate of 28%/eNhance resulted in the highest yield, as well as the highest protein level. It was the only treatment to surpass the target 14% level.

13 Fertilizer Program Comparison in Spring Wheat Northern Plains Ag Research. Gardner, ND Planted: 5/15 Variety: Prosper Population: 90 lbs Row Spacing: 7.5 Previous Crop: Wheat Plot Size: 10 x 35 : 4 PPI: 5/14 Harvest: 10/11 Compare different fertilizer sources of P and N for effect on spring wheat grain yield and protein. The previous experiment on spring wheat evaluated different N programs for spring wheat and found advantage with the addition of enhance to 28% UAN as well as the addition of sulfur from access. As part of that experiment, conventional fertilizers were evaluated for effect on wheat yield and protein compared to an AgroLiquid program. Conventional sources were % UAN and MAP (monoammonium phosphate, ) + urea (46-0-0). These materials were applied pre-plant and soil incorporated. The liquid treatments were applied with stream nozzles. A nutrient application of was followed for all treatments. Treatment yields appear in the following chart. Fertilizer Program Comparison in Spring Wheat Northern Plains Ag Research. Gardner, ND application: Pro-Germ. + Micro /eNhance Average of 4 4 gal + 1 qt gal/a 13.1% protein 51 ph: % UAN CEC: gal + 23 gal/a 12.9% protein 49.3 % OM: 2.5 Bicarb P: 7 K: 375 MAP + Urea S: lb lb/a 14.2% protein 47.7 % K: 5.6 % Mg: 20.2 % Ca: 73 % H: 0 % Na: 1.2 Zn: 0.5 Mn: 4 B: 0.5 Fertilizer Rate: 60 bu All treatments were broadcast applied pre-plant incorporated. Liquid treatments applied with stream nozzles. Highest average yield was with the AgroLiquid program. However the dry program had the highest grain protein although with a lower average yield. Conventional liquid yield lower in yield and protein. It was shown in the previous report covering the nitrogen comparisons that addition of access to the AgroLiquid treatment listed here increased yield to 56.5 Bu/A and 14.2% grain protein. This shows the importance of sulfur. However there was no sulfur with this dry treatment. But addition of sulfur to the AgroLiquid treatment resulted in a yield that is 8.8 Bu/A higher than this dry treatment. It is important to consider the entire nutrient need of the crop.

14 Nitrogen Comparisons in Furrow-Irrigated Corn Real Farm Research. Aurora, NE Experiment Info : Planted: 4/28 Variety: NK68B Population: 32,000 Row Spacing: 30 Previous Crop: Soybeans Plot Size: 4 rows x 153 : 2 PRE: 4/296 Harvested: 10/27 Compare different nitrogen sources and rates for effects on corn yield. Performance of nitrogen sources may vary by location in the country. This experiment was set up to evaluate performance of several sources of UAN solutions applied broadcast after planting in South Central Nebraska. The standard N source for the area is fall applied anhydrous ammonia. The target N rate was 200 lb-n/a. Two rates of High NRG-N were applied: 40 and 47 gal/a which represent approximately 60 and 70% of the total standard N rate used. There has been some interest in the combination of UAN/eNhance and High NRG-N. This is thought to perhaps enable faster N response plus extended N usability into the season. One product was evaluated as an additive to the UAN treatment: S-Calate. This was to evaluate the effects of added sulfur and calcium at the time of N application. Yield results appear in the following chart. N treatment Anhydrous Ammonia Nitrogen Fertilizer Comparisons in Irrigated Corn Real Farm Research. Aurora, NE Rate/A 241 lb 200-N* Average of 2 32% UAN 32% UAN/eNhance 57 gal 46 gal 200-N 161-N ph: 7.1 CEC: 25 32%/eNhance + S-Calate gal 161-N % OM: 3.3 Bray P1: 33 N-Blend (56% 32%/eNhance: 44% High NRG-N v/v) 43 gal 140-N K: 406 S: 20 High NRG-N 40 gal 115-N % K: 4.2 High NRG-N 47 gal 135-N % Mg: 8 % Ca: 88 % H: 0 Zn: 1.55 Mn: bu Fertilizer Rate: * - actual lb of N applied per acre. Planter fertilizer for all: 3 gal/a Pro-Germinator + 2 qt/a Micro 500 In-Furrow; Plot size: 4 row x 312 ft. N solution fertlizers applied broadcast after planting. Anhydrous ammonia applied the previous fall. Hybrid: NK 68B LSD(0.05): 9.4; LSD(0.1): 7.5. CV: 2.2% Highest overall yield was with the 47 gal/a of High NRG-N. This treatment applied only 135 actual pounds of N compared to the standard 200 lb N rate with anhydrous ammonia and 32% UAN. Yields produced with the lower rate of High NRG-N, N Blend, 32% UAN/enhance + S-Calate were also significantly higher than that with the 32% UAN. The AgroLiquid treatments enabled higher corn yields than with the conventional treatments, but with less applied N which is good for faster application as well as less fertilizer applied to the environment. High NRG-N is suited for broadcast applications in this drier climate typical of Nebraska.

15 Planter Fertilizer Comparisons in Irrigated Corn Real Farm Research. Aurora, NE Planted: 5/6 Variety: DKC Population: 32,000 Row Spacing: 30 Previous Crop: Soybeans Plot Size: 4 rows x 153 : 2 PRE: 4/29 Harvest: 10/27 Compare several planter applied fertilizer options for effect on yield of irrigated corn. In this part of South Central Nebraska, a typical corn fertilizer program is a fall application of 200 lb-n per acre and then 5 gal/a of applied in the seed furrow at planting. This experiment compared several planter-applied fertilizer applications in comparison to no planter fertilizer. They included the standard 5 gal/a of , a half rate of Pro-Germinator + Micro 500, that treatment with the sulfur fertilizer enhance, and then this combination but with 5 gal/a of Pro-Germinator. The soil test P is high at 33 ppm as is the soil test S at 20 ppm. But yield expectations are high with this furrow-irrigated corn. Yield results appear in the following chart. no planter fertilizer Planter Fertilizer Comparisons in Irrigated Corn Real Farm Research. Aurora, NE Average of 2 ph: 7.1 CEC: 25 % OM: gal/a Pro-Germ. + Micro gal + 2 qt/a Bray P1: 33 K: 406 S: 20 % K: 4.2 Pro-Germ. + Micro enhance 2.5 gal + 2 qt/a + 2 qt/a 5 gal + 2 qt/a + 2 qt/a % Mg: 8 % Ca: 88 % H: 0 Zn: 1.55 Mn: bu Fertilizer Rate: LSD(0.05): LSD(0.2): 7.6. CV: 2.9% Yield: Bu/A All plots had 200 lb-n/a as anhydrous ammonia the previous fall. Hybrid: DK All planter fertilizer treatments yielded significantly higher than the no planter fertilizer treatment. (At the 0.2 level of probability). The highest yielding treatment was the higher rate of Pro-Germinator with Micro 500 and enhance. But there was no statistically significant difference between the planter treatments. Numerically there was a yield increase with the addition of enhance, which is a good way to add sulfur fertilizer.

16 Nitrogen Placement Comparison in Corn South Dakota Ag Research. Lesterville, SD Experiment Info : Planted: 6/11 Variety: DKC49-29 Population: 26,000 Row Spacing: 30 Previous Crop: Corn Plot Size: 4 rows x 10 : 4 Sidedress: 11/8 Harvested: 11/8 ph: 6.4 CEC: 16.8 % OM: 3.1 Bray P1: 10 Compare placement of different nitrogen sources for effect on corn yield. Application of nitrogen to corn can be a challenge. What is the best method of application? Some growers apply all of their solution nitrogen as a single application after planting as in weed and feed. Side dress is a common application method, but there too are options: inject into the soil or apply in a surface band? An experiment was conducted in South Dakota to provide some answers to these placement options. The spring was very wet and planting was delayed. In fact, the intended location was never able to be planted, and a second location was selected. However, this was corn in 2012, and all nitrogen application at sidedress is not a good option for corn following corn due to N depletion in the soil and danger of further yield loss if sidedress is delayed by weather. But due to the drought in 2012, soil test determined that there was 51 lb of N available to the crop in the spring. An N application rate of 140 lb/a was set. Three UAN sources were selected for comparison: 46 gal/a of 28% UAN, 33 gal/a of High NRG-N and 28 gal/a of High NRG-N. Stream nozzles were selected due to the corn stalks and residue. Applications were broadcast with stream nozzles after planting, sidedress with soil injection, and sidedress with a narrow surface band. All plots received 4 gal/a of Pro-Germinator + 2 gal/a of Sure-K + 1 qt/a of Micro 500 applied in-furrow at planting. Ample rain fell following the broadcast application, and rain fell within a week of the sidedress application. Yield results appear in the following chart. High NRG-N 28 gal/a (80 lb N) Stream PRE SD - surface SD - inject Nitrogen Placement Comparisons in Corn SD Ag Research. Lesterville, SD K: 136 S: 13 % K: 2 % Mg: 27.3 High NRG-N 33 gal/a (94.4 lb N) Stream PRE SD - surface SD - inject % Ca: 63.4 % H: 7.3 Zn: 0.4 Mn: 15.6 B: % UAN 46 gal/a (138 lb N) Stream PRE SD - surface SD - inject Average of 4 Planting and PRE application on 6/7. Rainfall: 1.75" on 6/8 and 0.57 on 6/9. Sidedress (SD) on 7/2. Rainfall: 0.3" on 7/9 and 0.58" on 7/14. F test indicated no significant treatment differences. CV: 7.1% Yield patterns were similar for all three N sources. Highest yield was with the broadcast application followed closely by the sidedress (SD) injected treatment. Lowest was with the surface dribble band. Ample rain likely influenced results. Will see about a repeat.

17 Fertilizer Program Evaluations in Corn Virginia Polytechnic Institute and University, Blacksburg. Planted: 5/3 Variety: MA5120 Population: 24,500 Row Spacing: 30 Previous Crop: Corn Plot Size: 4 rows x 25 : 4 Harvest: 10/15 Compare University recommendations for corn with those using AgroLiquid fertilizers. Making proper corn fertilizer recommendations is a challenge. The nutrient aspects are considered, but the weather and growing conditions have the most impact. Sometimes high yields are obtained with minimal inputs in good weather, and sometimes yields are less than the yield goal when weather conditions are extreme. But it is interesting to compare programs from different sources, as was done this year at Virginia Tech under Dr. Wade Thomason. The recommendations were based on a soil test for a no-till corn following corn experiment. The university recommendations consisted of broadcast dry fertilizer followed by 2x2 placement of a liquid fertilizer and then a sidedress of 30% UAN for a total of per acre. There were no micronutrients or sulfur. The total AgroLiquid program consisted of an in-furrow application of Pro-Germinator + Sure-K + Micro enhance in furrow and 30%/eNhance sidedress. Because of the infurrow maximum rate recommendation of 10 gal/a (here we used 11); the AgroLiquid treatment was less than the 80 lb/a each of P2O5 and K2O. But with in-furrow, it was felt that this would suffice. Additional treatments included using 30%/eNhance at sidedress for the university treatment, and using Pro-Germinator + Micro enhance in-furrow instead of the in 2x2 placement for the university treatment. Yield results appear in the following chart. ph: 5.6 CEC: 7.1 % OM: 2.2 Bicarb P: 15 K: 70 S: 8 % K: 2.5 % Mg: 16.2 % Ca: 56.3 % H: 25 Zn: 1.6 Mn: 12.3 B: bu Fertilizer Rate: LSD (0.2): 2.6 CV: 20.6% The AgroLiquid recommendation was as effective as the university recommendation, but eliminated the dry application trip, and applied less fertilizer per acre at planting which would be more time efficient. Using enhance with 30% UAN (2.125 gal/ton) resulted in a yield increase. Using Pro-Germinator + Micro enhance in-furrow at 3.5 total gal/a was as effective as the 17 gal/a of applied 2x2 in the university recommendation.