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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Auburn, Alabama » Soil Dynamics Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #358230
Title: Evaluation of nitrogen losses from a corn system receiving two nitrogen sources, rates, and application time

Author
item PRASAD, RISHI - Auburn University
item ORTIZ, BRENDA - Auburn University
item Balkcom, Kipling
item LAMBA, JASMEET - Auburn University

Submitted to: ASA-CSSA-SSSA Annual Meeting Abstracts
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 10/1/2018
Publication Date: 11/4/2018
Citation: Prasad, R., Ortiz, B.V., Balkcom, K.S., Lamba, J. 2018. Evaluation of nitrogen losses from a corn system receiving two nitrogen sources, rates, and application time [abstracts]. ASA-CSSA-SSSA Annual Meeting Abstracts. CDROM.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Nitrogen (N) losses from corn fields receiving poultry litter or conventional fertilizers have always baffled corn growers and affected them via yield losses and decreased profitability. A perfect corn N strategy is impossible without having a thorough understanding of factors affecting N losses during the corn-growing season. These factors may include soil type, weather conditions, source, rate, and timing of N application. Although it is impossible to control N losses associated with unpredictable weather conditions or site characteristics, N losses can be minimized by adopting better nutrient stewardship through right source, right rate, or right timing of application strategies. The objectives of the study were to quantify and compare amounts and timing of N losses between N source (conventional fertilizer (urea) and poultry litter application), N application rates (168 vs 336 kg N/ha) and N application timing (single vs split application rates: 25 % N at planting and 75% N at V6) and their relationships to corn yield. Field plots were established as randomized complete block design with four replications per treatment at two locations (E.V. Smith Research Center; Shorter, AL and Wiregrass Research and Extension Center; Headland, AL) in Alabama. Soils at both sites were a Compass loamy sand (Coarse-loamy, siliceous, subactive, thermic Plinthic Paleudults). Soil (0-0.15, 0.15-0.30, 0.30-0.60 m depths) and plant samples were collected at major corn growth stages (VE, V6, V12, R1 and R6) and a partial N budget was prepared by accounting the N inputs and outputs. Nitrogen mass balance was used to derive N losses between growth stages and compared between N source, N rate and timing of N application. Preliminary results for the 2018 corn-growing season will be presented.