A3340

Corn fertilization
locally calibrated fertilizer recom-
mendations based on soil test
L.G. Bundy Determining
Profitable corn production results. Optimum soil test levels
nutrient needs
requires an adequate soil fertility Corn uses substantial amounts of on various Wisconsin soils are
program. Insufficient nutrients nitrogen (N), phosphate (P2O5), shown in table 2.
and potash (K2O) and relatively
will lower yields; excess nutri- Soil sampling procedures for all
small amounts of secondary
ents will lower profit margins nutrients and micronutrients. nutrients except nitrogen are out-
and may damage the environ- Table 1 lists specific amounts of lined in Extension publication
ment through nutrient runoff each nutrient removed from the Sampling Soils for Testing (A2100).
and leaching. Corn must soil by corn stover and grain at a Soil sampling for nitrogen tests is
yield level of 150 bushels/acre. described in Soil Nitrate Tests for
receive adequate amounts of
The nutrients taken up by the Wisconsin Cropping Systems
nutrients to fully realize yield (A3624). Detailed information on
plants must be supplied either
benefits from other manage- fertilizer recommendations based
from soil reserves or by adding
ment practices such as early nutrients. A deficiency of any of on soil test results can be found
planting dates, selection of these nutrients can reduce yields. in Soil Test Recommendations for
adapted hybrids, and effective Field, Vegetable and Fruit Crops
The best way to determine the (A2809).
weed and insect control. This
level of nutrients available in the
publication will help you sup- soil and the kinds and amounts If insufficient nutrients are avail-
ply the optimum nutrient level of supplemental fertilizer needed able to the corn plant, it will
for your fields. is through soil testing and using often develop an abnormal

Table 1. Nutrient content of corn grain and stover at 150 bu/acre yield

Nutrient Grain Stover Total

lb/acre

Nitrogen (N) 120 51 171

Phosphorus (P2O5)a 57 14 71
Potassium (K2O)b 37 150 187
Calcium (Ca) 1 29 30
Magnesium (Mg) 8 21 29
Sulfur (S) 9 7 16
Zinc (Zn) 0.10 0.15 0.25
Boron (B) 0.03 0.10 0.13
Manganese (Mn) 0.07 0.33 0.40
Iron (Fe) 0.06 1.10 1.16
Copper (Cu) 0.02 0.09 0.11

aDivide by 2.3 to convert to P.

bDivide by 1.2 to convert to K.
Calculated from data compiled at Wisconsin and at the Indiana Agricultural
Experiment Station.
 Table 2. Optimum Wisconsin soil test levels for corn

Medium-textured soils
Nutrient Sandy soils Southern and western Eastern red Northern
ppm
Phosphorus 23–32 11–20 16–20 13–18
Potassium 66–90 81–110 81–100 101–130
Calcium 401–600 601–1000 601–1000 601–1000
Magnesium 51–250 101–500 101–500 101–500
Sulfur 30–40 30–40 30–40 30–40
Manganese 11–20 11–20 11–20 11–20
Zinc 3.1–20 3.1–20 3.1–20 3.1–20

appearance or symptoms charac- Table 3. Visual symptoms of nutrient deficiency in corn

teristic of deficiency for the spe-
cific nutrient. Deficiency symp- Nutrient Deficiency symptom
toms for several nutrients are list-
ed in table 3. When corn shows
Nitrogen Yellowing of the lower leaves. Yellowing occurs along the

these symptoms, especially dur-

midrib. Leaf margins may remain green.

ing the early to mid-season

growth stages, the deficiency is
Phosphorus Purpling of the leaves early in the growing season. The

probably severe and yield reduc-

purple or reddish color appears first on older leaves and

tions are likely. Color photo-

usually disappears before the plant reaches 18 to 24 inches.

graphs illustrating deficiency Potassium Yellowing or browning of the lower leaves. Yellowing occurs
symptoms on corn and other along the edges of the leaf with the midrib remaining green.
crops are shown in the publica-
tion Nutrient Deficiencies and
Sulfur The entire plant is stunted and light green in color.

Application Injuries in Field Crops

Yellowing between veins in leaves is sometimes apparent.

(IPM-42, July 1994), available

from Iowa State University
Zinc Broad bands of bleached or yellow tissue on either side of

Extension.
the midrib beginning at the base of the leaf. Leaf midrib and
margins remain green. Symptoms usually appear on
Plant analysis or visual deficiency mature leaves near the top of the plant.
symptoms can be used during the
growing season to identify nutri-
ent deficiencies that may limit tion of nutrients in corn leaves
crop growth. Information on use and will influence plant analysis
Liming for
of plant analysis to diagnose fer- results.
corn production
tility problems is provided in Aglime recommendations are
publication Sampling for Plant If visual symptoms are used to based on the target pH level of
Analysis: A Diagnostic Tool diagnose nutrient deficiencies, the most acid-sensitive crop in a
(A2289). Table 4 shows the gener- note that weather-related stress, crop rotation or sequence. The
ally accepted sufficiency ranges insect or disease damage, and optimum or target pH for corn
of most essential nutrients at sev- inappropriate pesticide or fertiliz- grown on mineral soils in
eral corn growth stages. er applications can also produce Wisconsin is 6.0. When corn is
Recognize, though, that site-spe- abnormal appearance in corn. grown in rotation with alfalfa the
cific factors such as soil character- Use plant analysis and soil test- target pH is 6.8 due to the greater
istics, climatic conditions, and ing to confirm apparent nutrient sensitivity of alfalfa to soil acidity.
corn hybrid affect the concentra- deficiency symptoms.

2
 Nitrogen
recommendations
Nitrogen fertilizer
Table 4. Nutrient sufficiency ranges for corn at several program
Corn yields are more often limit-
growth stages

ed by inadequate supplies of
nitrogen than by deficiencies of
Seedlings, Third leaf, Ear leaf

other essential nutrients. This is

Nutrient 24–45 daysa 45–80 daysb at silking

% because corn has a high nitrogen

requirement and losses of applied
nitrogen can occur during the
Nitrogen 4.0–5.0 3.5–4.5 2.76–3.75

growing season by leaching, den-

Phosphorus 0.40–0.60 0.35–0.50 0.25–0.50

itrification, or other processes.

Potassium 3.0–5.0 2.0–3.5 1.75–2.75

Thus, it is important to accurately

Calcium 0.51–1.6 0.20–0.80 0.30–0.60

determine corn nitrogen require-

Magnesium 0.30–0.60 0.20–0.60 0.16–0.40

ments and to use effective man-

Sulfur 0.18–0.40 0.18–0.40 0.16–0.40

agement practices to minimize

ppm

Zinc 25–60 20–60 19–75 losses of applied nitrogen.

Corn requires annual additions of

Boron 6–25 6–25 5.1–40

nitrogen from fertilizer, manure,

Manganese 40–160 20–150 19–75

or previous legume crops because

Iron 40–500 25–250 50–250

the amount of soil-supplied nitro-

Copper 6–20 6–20 3–15

aSeedlings 6 to 16 inches tall; 24 to 45 days after planting. gen is usually less than the total
bThird leaf from top; plants over 12 inches tall, before silking. crop requirement. Table 5 gives
Source: Schulte and Kelling, University of Wisconsin-Madison, soil-specific nitrogen recommen-
1986. dations for Wisconsin corn based
on soil yield potential, soil tex-
ture, and soil organic matter con-
tent. Once the organic matter con-
tent for a field is known from soil
test results, it is not likely to
change significantly from year to

Table 5. Annual nitrogen recommendations for corn

Sands and loamy sands Other soils—yield potentiala

Soil organic matter Irrigated Non-irrigated Medium/lowb Very high/high

% lb N/acre

<2.0 200 120 150 180

2.0–4.9 160 110 120 160
5.0–20.0 120 100 90 120
>20.0 80 80 80 80

a To determine soil yield potential, consult Extension publication Soil Test Recommendations for Field
Vegetable, and Fruit Crops (A2809) or contact your agronomist or county agent.
b Irrigated non-sandy soils with a medium or low yield potential should receive the nitrogen recommenda-

tion for very high/high yield potential soils.

3
 year. Yield potential ratings are the optimum nitrogen rate for corn can provide most or all of
given for essentially all soil corn on a given soil is similar in the corn’s nitrogen requirement.
names used in Wisconsin in high and low yielding years. Using appropriate nitrogen cred-
Extension publication Soil Test Yields are more variable than its for these common agricultural
Recommendations for Field, optimum nitrogen rates because practices is essential for efficient
Vegetable, and Fruit Crops (A2809). corn recovers nitrogen more effi- nitrogen use in corn production
ciently in favorable growing con- and minimizing the environmen-
The nitrogen recommendations in
ditions and less efficiently in poor tal risk to groundwater associated
table 5 differ for sandy soils (sands
growing conditions. with overapplications.
and loamy sands) depending on
whether or not they are irrigated. The nitrogen recommendations in
The lower recommendations for table 5 should usually be consid- residue cover. When corn is
Adjustments for high corn

non-irrigated sandy soils reflect ered the maximum amount of planted in fields with at least 50%
the lower corn yield potential in nitrogen needed for economically residue cover from the previous
an environment where moisture optimum corn yields. These rec- corn crop, increase the nitrogen
is often inadequate. For medium- ommendations must be adjusted application by 30 lb/acre. This
and fine-textured soils, nitrogen for manure and legume nitrogen additional nitrogen is not needed
recommendations are based on contributions; additional adjust- where the previous crop was soy-
soil yield potential and organic ments based on soil nitrate test bean or a forage legume. To
matter content. The yield poten- results will often be appropriate. increase nitrogen efficiency, inject
tial ranking for each soil series is the nitrogen below the surface
based on soil characteristics such residue. The added nitrogen is
and legumes. Where manure
Nitrogen credits for manure

as drainage, depth of root zone, needed mainly to offset the lower

has been applied or where previ-
and water holding capacity. Soils annual amount of nitrogen min-
ous legume crops were grown,
with very high or high yield eralized from soil organic matter
refer to tables 6 and 7 to deter-
potentials receive higher nitrogen in high corn residue systems, and
mine the appropriate credits to
recommendations than those possibly to compensate for nitro-
subtract from the total nitrogen
with a medium or low yield gen that may be immobilized in
recommendations in table 5.
potential ranking. Yield goals are surface residues.
Research in Wisconsin and other
not a factor in making nitrogen
states shows that manure can
recommendations. Numerous
provide the total nitrogen needs
studies have shown that opti-
of corn and that a good or fair
mum nitrogen rates for corn are
alfalfa stand prior to growing
not closely tied to yield. In fact,

Table 6. Expected first-year available nitrogen from manurea

Nitrogen credit

Solid (lb N/ton) Liquid (lb N/1000 gal)

Manure source incorp.b not incorp. incorp.b not incorp.

Dairy 4 3 10 8
Beef 4 4 12 10
Swine (finish) 5 4 28 22
Swine (farrow) 5 4 15 12
Poultry 15 13 41 35
aResidual credits are also expected for the second and third years (see A2809).
bInjected or incorporated into the soil within 72 hours after spreading

4
Nitrogen fertilizer about nitrogen management for sources and predicts the amount
management corn production refer to needed for a sidedress or in-sea-
Extension publication Nutrient son nitrogen application.
The nitrogen recommendations in Management Practices for
table 5 assume that appropriate Wisconsin Corn Production and Preplant soil nitrate test samples
management practices are used to Water Quality Protection (A3557). are usually collected too early in
minimize nitrogen losses. The the growing season to measure
nitrogen application rate decision Soil nitrate tests. The recent nitrogen released from fall or
is the most important manage- development of soil tests for spring manure applications, pre-
ment factor affecting the prof- assessing soil nitrogen levels has vious legume crops, and soil
itability of nitrogen use in corn provided new tools for improv- organic matter. To credit manure
production and the risk of nitrate ing the efficiency of nitrogen fer- and legume nitrogen where pre-
loss to groundwater. The key ini- tilizer applications to corn. Soil plant soil nitrate tests are taken,
tial step in arriving at the nitro- nitrate tests allow nitrogen fertil- provide field management infor-
gen rate decision is to use the izer recommendations to be mation on these practices with
appropriate recommendations for adjusted for field-specific condi- the soil samples. This information
the soil and to credit the amounts tions that can influence crop will be used to adjust nitrogen
of nitrogen provided from non- nitrogen needs. In fields where a recommendations for legume and
fertilizer sources. Soil nitrate tests soil nitrate test has been used, manure nitrogen in addition to
can often help to identify opti- nitrogen fertilizer recommenda- the adjustments for soil nitrate.
mum nitrogen rates for corn on a tions can often be reduced to The preplant nitrate test is most
site-specific basis. reflect the soil’s residual nitrate useful where corn follows corn in
content and the nitrogen that will a rotation. The preplant test is not
In addition to the rate applied, be released from organic sources. useful if corn follows a forage
other nitrogen management legume (alfalfa). In this situation,
options can also influence fertiliz- Two soil nitrogen tests are cur-
take the standard nitrogen credit
er effectiveness. These options rently available. The preplant soil
for the previous legume crop or
include the nitrogen fertilizer nitrate test (PPNT) assesses nitro-
use the pre-sidedress soil nitrate
source used, the method and tim- gen requirements by measuring
test. Sampling procedures for the
ing of nitrogen application, and the residual soil profile nitrate
preplant soil nitrate test are
use of a nitrification inhibitor before planting corn. The pre-sid-
described in Extension publica-
with ammonium forms of fertiliz- edress soil nitrate test (PSNT)
tion Soil Nitrate Tests for Wisconsin
er nitrogen. For more information estimates nitrogen availability Cropping Systems (A3624).
mainly from organic nitrogen

Table 7. Nitrogen credits for previous legume crops

Sandy soils Other soils

Crop <8" regrowth >8" regrowth <8" regrowth >8" regrowth
lb/a

Alfalfaa
good stand (>70%) 100 140 150 190
fair stand (30–70%) 70 110 120 160
poor stand (<30%) 40 80 90 130
Red clover or birdsfoot trefoil
good stand (>70%) 80 110 120 150
fair stand (30–70%) 50 90 90 130
poor stand (<30%) 30 60 70 100
Soybean — 0 — 40
aFor second-year, a 50 lb credit is given on non-sandy soils if the stand is fair or good.

5
 The pre-sidedress soil nitrate test tions. Wisconsin research has sidedress treatments on medium-
should be taken when corn shown fall applications on medi- textured, well-drained soils
plants are 6 to 12 inches tall, usu- um-textured soils to be 10 to 15% because the risk of early season
ally 4 to 6 weeks after planting. less effective than the same nitrogen loss on these soils is low.
Conversion (mineralization) of amount of nitrogen applied pre- The optimum rate for the side-
organic nitrogen to the plant- plant in the spring. dress nitrogen applications can
available nitrate form has usually often be determined using the
Fall application of nitrogen fertil-
occurred by the time pre-side- pre-sidedress soil nitrate test (see
izer is not recommended on
dress samples are collected. earlier discussion).
coarse-textured soils or on shal-
Consequently, this soil test can
low soils over fractured bedrock. The timing of sidedress nitrogen
estimate the amount of nitrogen
If fall applications are to be made applications for corn is critical.
released from previous legumes,
on other soils, they should be Corn takes up nitrogen rapidly
fall/spring manure applications,
limited to the application of beginning about 6 weeks after
and soil organic matter as well as
ammonium-nitrogen sources planting and continuing until 10
residual nitrate in the top 12
such as anhydrous ammonia, and to 12 weeks after planting. To
inches of soil. The pre-sidedress
should be applied only after soil provide adequate amounts of
soil nitrate test can be a valuable
temperatures at the 6-inch soil nitrogen to corn during this peri-
tool for confirming the amount of
depth are below 50°F. Use of a od, make sidedress applications
nitrogen credited from manure or
nitrification inhibitor (discussed no later than 6 weeks after plant-
previous legume crops. For more
later) with ammonium forms of ing. Multiple applications of
information on both the preplant
nitrogen is likely to improve the nitrogen through irrigation sys-
and pre-sidedress soil nitrate
effectiveness of fall applications. tems are also effective. These
tests, see Extension publication
Research indicates, however, that applications should be timed so
Soil Nitrate Tests for Wisconsin
fall applications of nitrogen with that some nitrogen is applied by
Cropping Systems (A3624).
an inhibitor are still not likely to the sixth week after planting, and
Fall nitrogen application. Fall be as effective as spring-applied most of the nitrogen requirement
nitrogen applications have a nitrogen. is applied by the tenth week after
higher risk of nitrogen loss than planting.
other timing options. Fall-applied
application. Sidedress applica- Sidedress or delayed postemer-
Sidedress or delayed nitrogen

nitrogen has more time to leach

tions 4 to 6 weeks after planting gence fertilizer nitrogen applica-
into groundwater or to denitrify
are an effective method of apply- tions can be made where these
before the crop can use it.
ing nitrogen to corn on all soils. nitrogen additions were planned
Nitrogen losses between applica-
Benefits from sidedress applica- or where early season weather
tion and uptake the following
tions are likely to be greatest on conditions prevented preplant
growing season mean less nitro-
sandy soils and fine-textured, nitrogen applications. The priori-
gen is available for crop recovery,
poorly drained soils where the ty for postemergence applications
reducing corn yield. An increased
risks of nitrogen loss through should be those fields most likely
risk of nitrogen loss during the
leaching or denitrification are to respond to nitrogen. This usu-
fall and early spring should be
high. Delaying nitrogen applica- ally will be fields that do not
weighed against any advantages
tion for 4 to 6 weeks after plant- have forage legume or manure
associated with fall-applied
ing will avoid early season nitro- nitrogen credits. Corn following a
nitrogen.
gen losses and provide available forage legume or where substan-
Fall to spring precipitation, soil fertilizer nitrogen to the crop tial amounts of manure have
texture, and soil moisture condi- when it needs it most. Research been applied may not need addi-
tions influence the potential for on sandy irrigated soils shows tional nitrogen.
fall-applied nitrogen losses. Thus, consistently higher corn yields
Postemergence broadcast applica-
the relative effectiveness of fall with sidedress applications than
tions of urea-ammonium nitrate
nitrogen applications varies with nitrogen applied before
solution (UAN) or urea over
widely from one year to the next planting. Spring preplant appli-
growing corn will cause burning
depending on climatic condi- cations are usually as effective as

6
of the plants, and may reduce Nitrification inhibitors used with Research on silt loam soils indi-
yields if high nitrogen rates are fertilizer nitrogen typically cates that 15 to 20% of the urea
used. Minnesota research showed increase corn yields only when nitrogen surface-applied to corn
that leaf burn increased in severi- there is a high risk of nitrogen can be lost as ammonia, and sub-
ty as rates of UAN increased and loss through leaching or denitrifi- sequent corn yield reductions are
as corn plants aged. However, cation. For example, fall or spring likely if these losses occur.
postemergence UAN can be preplant nitrogen applications on Substantially higher losses can
applied at rates up to 90 lb fine-textured, poorly drained occur if urea is surface-applied
N/acre at the four- to five-leaf soils are at a high risk of nitrogen on sandy soils. Rainfall (at least
corn growth stage or up to 60 lb loss through denitrification. 0.2 inch) within 3 days following
N/acre at the eight-leaf stage Similarly, nitrogen losses through urea application will prevent sig-
without reducing yields. These leaching are probable when nificant ammonia loss. Nitrogen
maximum application rates may spring preplant applications are loss through ammonia volatiliza-
need to be reduced if herbicides made to sandy soils. In both tion can be eliminated on most
are applied with the UAN. these situations, a nitrification soils by incorporating or injecting
inhibitor applied with the fertiliz- urea-containing fertilizers into
Broadcast application of dry urea er will increase yields. However, the soil. Where urea must be sur-
fertilizers over growing corn is an sidedress applications without an face-applied, use of urease
alternative postemergence appli- inhibitor may be more effective inhibitors can reduce ammonia
cation option. Some burning of than a spring preplant applica- losses.
corn plants is likely where urea tion with an inhibitor.
particles stick to the leaves or are Nitrification inhibitors are not
Urease inhibitors used with sur-
trapped in the whorl of the likely to increase corn yields face-applied urea-containing fer-
plants. Although the maximum when used with sidedress nitro- tilizers have potential for reduc-
rates of broadcast urea that can gen applications because the risk ing ammonia losses and improv-
be applied to corn without reduc- of nitrogen loss with this applica- ing nitrogen efficiency in high
ing yields are not known, the rate tion method is low on all soil residue systems. However, they
suggestions for UAN shown types. do not give consistent yield
above may be reasonable guide- increases. A summary of recent
lines for urea-nitrogen rates. research suggests that the urease
inhibitor NBPT increases corn
Ammonia loss from surface-

fertilizers. Urea and urea-con- yields about 30 to 40% of the time

applied urea-containing

A nitrification inhibitor such as

Use of nitrification inhibitors.

taining nitrogen solutions (28% where urea-containing fertilizers

nitrapyrin (N-Serve) or dicyandi-
UAN) are important nitrogen fer- were surface applied. Yields can
amide (DCD) can be used with
tilizer sources in Wisconsin. More be reduced in 5 to 10% of the
ammoniacal fertilizer nitrogen to
than half of the fertilizer nitrogen cases. The decision to use a ure-
reduce nitrogen losses under
used in the state is applied as ase inhibitor will depend upon
some conditions. Nitrification
urea or a urea-containing materi- the risk of nitrogen loss that
inhibitors slow the conversion of
al. When urea-containing fertiliz- could be controlled by a urease
ammonium to nitrate by soil bac-
ers are surface applied but not inhibitor, the cost of using the
teria. More information on nitro-
incorporated into the soil, signifi- inhibitor, and the cost and con-
gen reactions in soils is provided
cant amounts of the applied venience of other nitrogen
in Extension publication Soil and
nitrogen can be lost to the atmos- sources or placement methods
Applied Nitrogen (A2519). Because phere as ammonia. Nitrogen loss- that are not subject to ammonia
leaching and denitrification loss- es through ammonia volatiliza- loss. These alternatives could
es occur through the nitrate form tion are promoted by crop include injecting or incorporating
of nitrogen, use of an inhibitor to residue cover on the soil surface, the urea-containing fertilizers or
maintain fertilizer nitrogen in the absence of rainfall following urea using non-urea nitrogen sources.
ammonium form should reduce application, high temperatures,
these losses. and high soil pH.

7
 are based on anticipated crop return and maintain soil test lev-
phosphorus and potassium els in the optimum range.
Phosphate
removal at various yield levels Additions of phosphorus and
and potash
and on soil test results. At opti- potassium are essential to prevent
recommendations
Recommendations for annual mum soil test levels, the recom- reductions in yields. At low and
phosphate (P2O5) and potash mended phosphorus and potassi- very low soil test levels, the rec-
(K2O) applications for corn grain um additions are approximately ommended phosphorus and
and silage production are shown equal to anticipated crop potassium additions reflect antici-
in tables 8 and 9, respectively. removal. The recommendations pated crop removal plus addi-
These fertilizer recommendations are set to optimize economic tional phosphorus and potassium

Table 8. Annual P2O5 and K2O fertilizer recommendations for corn grain production

Soil test levela

Yield goal VL L Opt H EH

bu/acre K2O to apply (lb/acre)

71–90 60–90b 50–70b 30 15 0

91–110 70–100b 60–80b 40 20 0
111–130 75–105b 65–85b 45 25 0
131–150 85–115b 75–95b 55 25 0
151–170 90–120b 80–100b 60 30 0
171–190 100–130b 90–110b 70 35 0
191–210 105–135b 95–115b 75 40 0
P2O5 to apply (lb/acre)

71–90 50–80c 40–65c 25 15 0

91–110 55–85c 45–70c 30 15 0
111–130 60–90c 50–75c 35 15 0
131–150 65–95c 55–80c 40 20 0
151–170 70–100c 60–85c 45 20 0
171–190 75–105c 65–90c 50 20 0
191–210 80–110c 70–95c 55 25 0
aAbbreviations: VL = very low, L = low, Opt = optimum, H = high, EH = excessively high.
bUse the higher values on sandy or organic soils.
cUse the lower values on sandy or organic soils.

Table 9. Annual P2O5 and K2O fertilizer recommendations for corn silage production

Soil test levela

Phosphorus Potassium
Yield goal Opt H EH Opt H VH EH
tons/acre P2O5 to apply (lb/acre) K2O to apply (lb/acre)

≤16 50 25 0 100 50 25 0
16.1–20 65 30 0 120 60 30 0
20.1–25 85 40 0 135 70 35 0
>25 100 50 0 150 75 40 0
aAbbreviations: Opt = optimum, H = high, VH = very high, EH = excessively high.

8
to raise the soil test levels to opti-
mum over a 5- to 8-year period.
Table 10. Maximum recommended starter fertilizer rates for corn.

Recommendations for soils test-

ing high are reduced to half the
Placement method Sands Silts & clays

anticipated removal. For soils

lb fertilizer/acre

testing excessively high, no phos-

With seed (pop-up) 50* 50*

phorus or potassium is recom-

Side (2 inches x 2 inches) 300 500
aLimit the N + K2O to 10 lb/acre.
mended. The reduced rates allow
a gradual lowering in above-opti-
mum soil test levels and, for most
soils, will not reduce soil test lev-
els below the optimum range in Wisconsin research has shown izers containing urea for seed
4 years of cropping. that starter fertilizer often placement because corn stand
increases corn yields, and starter and yield reductions are likely.
Soil nutrient levels need to be fertilizer is widely used in corn
monitored closely to detect production in the state. Although corn response to starter
changes in phosphorus and decreases with increasing phos-
potassium status so that soil fer- Numerous research trials have phorus and potassium soil test
tility levels can be maintained in led to a series of recommenda- levels, profitable yield responses
the optimum range. Soil tests tions on starter fertilizer composi- to starter sometimes occur on
should be taken at least every tion, placement, rates, and factors soils with excessively high soil
3 years and preferably every affecting response. Corn yield tests. Results from numerous on-
other year on sandy soils and benefits to starter fertilizer appli- farm studies show that profitable
other soils with low buffering cation are most consistently yield responses occur about 30 to
capacity. observed when a complete fertil- 40% of the time on soils with
izer containing all three of the excessively high phosphorus and
Manure can provide part or all of major nutrients (nitrogen, phos- potassium soil tests.
the phosphate and potash phorus, and potassium) is used.
requirements for corn production. Starter fertilizers containing The frequency of starter response
Recommended credits are 3 lb of potassium are particularly benefi- increases as the combined effect
P2O5/ton and 8 lb of K2O/ton of cial on compacted soils and in of hybrid relative maturity (RM)
solid dairy manure or 8 lb of no-till systems. A side placement and planting date result in an
P2O5/1000 gal and 21 lb of located about 2 inches below and inadequate growth period to real-
K2O/1000 gal of liquid dairy 2 inches to the side of the seed ize the crop’s yield potential. To
manure. If manure analyses have (2 x 2) performs as well as or bet- estimate the likelihood of
been obtained, credit 55% of the ter than other placement alterna- response on soils with high to
total P2O5 and 75% of the total tives such as with-seed placement excessively high phosphorus and
K2O. Subtract appropriate nutri- (pop-up), surface broadcast, sur- potassium soil tests, calculate the
ent credits for manure from fertil- face banded, or deep banded sum of the hybrid RM and the
izer recommendations (see treatments. Julian date (day of year) of plant-
table 6). ing (PDRM). When PDRM values
All of the phosphorus and potas- are in the 220 to 230 range, 30 to
sium needs for corn can be 40% of the sites will respond to
Starter (row) fertilizer
applied as starter when a side starter fertilizer; response occurs
In areas with short growing sea- placement is used. However, 50 to 60% of the time when PDRM
sons, such as Wisconsin, a band rates of seed-placed starter must values range from 240 to 250.
or row application of fertilizer be carefully monitored to avoid
The frequency of response to
near the seed at planting pro- stand and yield reductions. The
starter fertilizer is also influenced
vides a readily available supply maximum rates for side- and
by soil test potassium level. More
of nutrients to corn seedlings seed-placed starter fertilizer are
frequent responses occur where
early in the season when root listed in table 10. Never use fertil-
soil test potassium levels are in
growth and nutrient release from
the optimum and high range;
organic matter are slow.

9
 response is less frequent when requirement or use the minimum heavy applications of potassium
soil test potassium is excessively starter fertilizer rate at planting fertilizer or ammonium forms of
high (over 150 ppm). At high and supply the additional phos- nitrogen fertilizer and where
PDRM values, response to starter phorus and potassium needed papermill lime sludge was used.
is much more frequent at soil test with a broadcast application. High concentrations of potassium
potassium levels less than 150 or ammonium in sandy soils with
Manured sites. Where substan-
ppm. Where soil test potassium is low magnesium content interfere
excessively high, the frequency of tial amounts of manure are with magnesium uptake by corn.
applied to meet part or all of the
response to starter is not affected This magnesium deficiency usu-
corn nitrogen requirement, phos-
by soil test phosphorus levels ally does not occur unless the
phorus and potassium additions
ranging from 24 to 125 ppm. potassium soil test level is higher
in the manure will often meet or
Responses to starter at sites with than the magnesium soil test
exceed the plant needs. In these
soil test phosphorus values above level. Under these conditions,
cases, starter fertilizer application
125 ppm are not likely. magnesium deficiency in corn
rates should not exceed the mini- can be corrected or prevented by
mum 10+20+20/acre application
Recommendations for rate.
band application of 10 to 20 lb
starter fertilizer magnesium/acre as magnesium
Crediting starter nutrients in sulfate (Epsom salt).

soil tests. Apply a minimum Sulfur

Sites with excessively high

Typical amounts of nitrogen in

nutrient management plans.

rate of starter fertilizer of about starter fertilizer (10 to 20 lb

10+20+20 (N+P2O5+K2O), which Sulfur deficiency in corn is rare in
N/acre) are not credited against
will produce the full starter bene- Wisconsin, but isolated deficien-
the crop nitrogen requirement.
fit at responsive sites. The nutri- cies have been observed, particu-
Where higher amounts of nitro-
ents in a 10+20+20/acre applica- larly in northern Wisconsin.
gen are applied in starter, that
tion rate are substantially less Sulfur deficiency is most likely to
portion of the nitrogen that
than crop removal at normal occur on sandy soils, on soils
exceeds 20 lb N/acre should be
yield levels. For example, corn with less than 3% organic matter,
credited. All of the phosphate
yielding 150 bu/acre removes and on soils that have not received
(P2O5 ) and potash (K2O) in
about 55 lb of P2O5/acre and recent manure applications.
starter fertilizer should be credit-
40 lb of K2O/acre (table 1). If this ed against crop needs. The sulfur availability index,
minimal starter application of
described in Extension publication
10+20+20/acre is the only phos-
Soil and Applied Sulfur (A2525),
phorus and potassium applied
Secondary and
reflects the amounts of sulfur
for the crop, the excessively high
provided from all sources. Use
micronutrient
soil test levels will be drawn down.
this index to determine the need
recommendations
for sulfur fertilization. Where sul-
Calcium and magnesium
soil tests. Soils with phosphorus fur fertilization for corn is neces-
Sites with high or optimum

and potassium tests in the high or The most economical method of sary, apply 10 to 20 lb sulfur/acre
optimum ranges will need more applying calcium and magne- either with the starter fertilizer or
phosphorus and potassium than sium for corn is through use of broadcast. Sulfate forms of sulfur
is provided in the minimum dolomitic lime to maintain soil or elemental sulfur may be used.
starter application of 10+20+20/ pH levels above 6.0. This provides Elemental sulfur should be
acre (see removals at the 150 adequate amounts of calcium and applied before anticipated crop
bu/acre corn grain yield level in magnesium for corn production use to allow time for conversion
table 1). Producers may wish to on most Wisconsin soils. to plant-available sulfate.
increase starter fertilizer applica- Magnesium deficiency on corn
tion rates to provide the entire has been observed on some
crop phosphorus and potassium sandy soils following moderate to

10
Zinc Copper Additional
Zinc is the micronutrient most Copper deficiency is usually con- information
likely to be deficient in corn, fined to acid soils, particularly For information on related sub-
because corn has a relatively high mucks. It is unlikely that copper jects, see the following publica-
requirement for this nutrient. fertilization will be required for tions available from Cooperative
Deficiencies usually occur on corn production on most Extension:
eroded or scalped soils with low Wisconsin soils. Copper fertilizer
organic matter content, on sandy recommendations can be found Sampling Soils for Testing
soils, on organic soils with pH in Soil and Applied Copper (A2527). (A2100)
values above 6.5, and on soils Soil Nitrate Tests for Wisconsin
with high levels of available Boron Cropping Systems (A3624)
phosphorus.
Boron deficiency in corn is rare in Soil Test Recommendations for
Use soil tests or plant analysis to Wisconsin. Soil test interpreta- Field, Vegetable, and Fruit Crops
determine if there is a need for tions for this element are based (A2809)
added zinc. If these tests indicate on alfalfa and other crops with Sampling for Plant Analysis: A
a need for zinc fertilization, apply higher boron requirements. Only Diagnostic Tool (A2289)
2 to 4 lb zinc/acre in a band or 4 0.5 oz of boron is removed in Nutrient Management Practices
to 8 lb zinc/acre broadcast. 150 bushels of corn. However, too for Wisconsin Corn Production
Additional information on deter- much boron applied close to the and Water Quality Protection
mining the need for and applying seed (e.g., in row fertilizer) may (A3557)
zinc fertilizers can be found in inhibit germination and reduce
Soil and Applied Zinc (A2528). yields. Response to boron is most Urea—Its Use and Problems
likely in high-yielding irrigated (A2898)
Manganese corn on sandy soils, but even Soil and Applied Nutrients:
here no documented responses to Nitrogen (A2519)
Manganese deficiencies in corn Phosphorus (A2520)
this element have been reported.
are rare in Wisconsin. They are Potassium (A2521)
Additional information on boron
most likely to occur on the high Boron (A2522)
in soils and use of fertilizers con-
pH, red soils of eastern Wisconsin Calcium (A2523)
taining boron can be found in Soil
and on dark-colored, high pH and Applied Boron (A2522). Sulfur (A2525)
soils in southeastern Wisconsin. Manganese (A2526)
Organic soils that have been
burned can also be deficient in
Iron, molybdenum, Copper (A2527)

manganese. A band application of chlorine Zinc (A2528)

Iron (A3554)
5 to 10 lb manganese/acre effec- Fertilizer applications of these Molybdenum (A3555)
tively corrects manganese defi- nutrients are not recommended Chlorine (A3556)
ciencies when soil tests or plant since deficiencies have not been
analyses indicate manganese fer- observed in Wisconsin corn crops.
tilization is necessary. Broadcast
applications of manganese are
not recommended. Extension
publication Soil and Applied
Manganese (A2526), contains
additional information on diag-
nosing and correcting manganese
deficiencies.

11
Copyright © 1998 by the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System doing business as the
division of Cooperative Extension of the University of Wisconsin-Extension. Send inquiries about copyright
permission to: Manager, Cooperative Extension Publishing, 432 N. Lake St., Rm. 103, Madison, WI 53706.

Author: L.G. Bundy is a professor of soil science, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, University of
Wisconsin-Madison and University of Wisconsin-Extension, Cooperative Extension. Produced by
Cooperative Extension Publishing.

University of Wisconsin-Extension, Cooperative Extension, in cooperation with the U.S. Department

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A3340 Corn Fertilization RP-08-2004 (R 10/98)