Is it time for fall nitrogen yet?!
The time for fall application of anhydrous ammonia and manure is approaching, but we may not be there yet. This blog has a few things to keep in mind this fall and links to some good references.
The time for fall application of anhydrous ammonia and manure is approaching, but we may not be there yet. This blog has a few things to keep in mind this fall and links to some good references.
With rising fertilizer prices, and concerns about possible shortages, it pays to time our applications of anhydrous ammonia and manure well. When the value is high, the focus on management is even more important.
Anhydrous costs are reported to have risen to $850 or more per ton.
When it comes to applying fall anhydrous ammonia or manure with a high ammonium N content (like liquid swine manure), we recommend that soil temperatures at a 4-inch depth are below 50° F and continue to trend cooler to help minimize nitrogen loss prior to the next growing season. While soil temperatures at the 4-inch depth dropped down into the low 40s and even upper 30s across the state of Iowa by November 2, warmer air temperatures this week will raise soil temperatures, possibly above the 50° F threshold.
Fall nitrogen (N) application for corn continues to be popular for several reasons, including lower product cost, time for application, equipment availability, suitable soil conditions, and competing springtime field activities.