This is the second article in a series of blog articles that will focus on some fundamental information on UT fertilizer recommendations for corn, with a different nutrient featured in each article. Commonly recommended nutrients for use in corn production in TN include nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sulfur (S), and zinc (Zn). Each nutrient will be discussed in terms of the relevant soil test that maybe used or used in recommendation; recommended preplant, starter, sidedress, and foliar fertilizer applications; and plant/tissue analysis. Today’s focus will be on phosphorus (P).
UT phosphorus (P) fertilizer recommendations for optimal corn productivity
Today’s blog will focus on UT phosphorus recommendations for optimal corn productivity under conditions in TN. Phosphorus plays an important role in plant reproduction especially pollination and kernel setting. In adequate P can reduce stalk strength, delay crop maturity, poor kernel set and lead to yield loss.
Soil test for phosphorus
UT Publication PB 1645, Best Management Practices for Phosphorus in the Environment provides an excellent review on phosphorus. Phosphorus fertilizer application rate should be based on soil test. In TN, P fertilizer recommendations are based on Mehlich I extraction procedure because it correlates well with the soils in Tennessee. However, a calibration for Mehlich III has been established for west TN soils is described in the UT Publication SP763, UT fertility recommendations for Tennessee row crops. Detailed information on how UT recommendation was developed is addressed in UT Publication W795, University of Tennessee Fertilizer Recommendation Development. Row crop sustainability. Extension Publication, SP763. Continue reading →
