CORN Newsletter: 2004-14, May 18, 2004

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C.O.R.N Newsletter 2004-14
May 18, 2004 - May 24, 2004

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Sidedressing Corn -What should my rate be? Should I inject or dribble? Do I need an N stabilizer?
by Robert Mullen


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What should my rate be?
This is a very subjective question that can have extremely varying answers, depending upon the source of the recommendation. Obviously, within the university system we use the term yield goal to make a recommendation. Yield goal is a term that describes the average potential yield based on previous experience within a specific field. If a field has supported on average 160 bu/A of corn in previous years, that should be the yield goal (on average, obviously the true potential yield is a combination of hybrid, other nutrient levels, and more importantly environmental conditions). Even if one out the past six corn crops on that field yielded 200 bu/A, consider the average yield removed from the field rather than the exceptional year. More than likely, N application rates for the year that yielded 200 bu/A were similar to N rates for the average yield of 160 bu/A. Research reveals that even if the crop can yield 200 bu/A, the soil has the ability to buffer the demand for N. So if you are betting on another bumper crop, the demands for N are still not excessively high, relative to current N application rates. In other words, make your yield goal realistic, and do not apply excessive N in hopes of high yields.

Presidedress soil nitrate test can reveal if the sidedress N rate should be adjusted. This is of particular importance on fields that have historically received manure application. Soil samples can be collected in corn that is between growth stages V4 to V6, and submitted to a reputable lab. To see recommendations for sidedress adjustments based on presidedress nitrate test, see the following webpage: http://www.agry.purdue.edu/hua/issupsnt.htm

Should I Inject or Dribble?
Sidedress N should be injected below the surface soil to minimize N losses by volatilization. If N cannot be injected, dribble applications of liquid N are the next best method of application. Broadcast applications of urea or UAN should be used if the other two options are not available. Obviously broadcast applications can burn the crop, so if this methodology is used expect some burned leaves (especially if it gets warm and dry after application).

Do I need an N stabilizer?
Some propose the use of an N stabilizer with sidedressed N to minimize loss of N and maximize efficiency. The purpose of applying N as a sidedress is to improve the timing of N application to coincide with crop N demand. Thus, N applied as a sidedress should not need an N stabilizer. This is especially true of injected N. Some research shows that inclusion of a urease inhibitor may be advantageous when UAN is applied as a dribble. If rain follows application (within about three days), the advantage of the inhibitor is lost.

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C.O.R.N. is a summary of crop observations, related information, and appropriate recommendations for Ohio Crop Producers and Industry. C.O.R.N. is produced by the Ohio State University Extension Agronomy Team, State Specialists at The Ohio State University and Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center. C.O.R.N. Questions are directed to State Specialists, Extension Associates, and Agents associated with Ohio State University Extension and the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center at The Ohio State University.

Information presented above and where trade names are used, they are supplied with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Ohio State University Extension is implied. Although every attempt is made to produce information that is complete, timely, and accurate, the pesticide user bears responsibility of consulting the pesticide label and adhering to those directions.

All educational programs conducted by Ohio State University Extension are available to clientele on a nondiscriminatory basis without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, gender, age, disability or Vietnam-era veteran status.

Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, Acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Keith L. Smith, Director, Ohio State University Extension.

TDD # 1 (800) 589-8292 (Ohio only) or (614) 292-1868


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