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NITROGEN FERTILIZER REPLACEMENT VALUE OF ALFALFA GROWN IN NORTHERN ILLINOIS

Applied Research

Jim Morrison
University of Illinois
WINNEBAGO

Abstract

Increases in nitrogen fertilizer prices, improved alfalfa varieties, and questions from growers prompted the need to revisit the topic of nitrogen credit from alfalfa for first year corn harvested as grain. A three-year (2007-2009) study was conducted in northern Illinois on three farms and at the University of Illinois Agronomy Research Center, Shabbona. An assessment of the alfalfa stand (plants per square foot) was made prior to corn planting. Nitrogen rates of 0, 40, 80, 120, 160, and 200 pounds per acre were applied early postemergence. The form of nitrogen fertilizer was either UAN solution (28%) dribbled between the rows or urea broadcast. At each site, there were three or four replicates in a randomized complete block design. Soil samples for the pre-sidedress nitrate test (PSNT) were collected prior to nitrogen application. Corn was mechanically harvested and grain yield per acre was calculated. The relationship (r-square value) between PSNT values and the optimum nitrogen rate was determined.

Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC

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Authors: J.A. Morrison*, F.G. Fernandez, E.D. Nafziger, , L.E. Paul
  1. Morrison*, J. Extension Educator, Crop Systems, University of Illinois Extension, Illinois, 61107
  2. Fernandez, F. Extension Specialist, Soil Fertility, University of Illinois Dept. of Crop Sciences, Illinois, 61801
  3. Nafziger, E. Extension Specialist, Crop Production, University of Illinois Dept. of Crop Sciences, Illinois, 61801
  4. , , ,
  5. Paul, L. Agronomist, University of Illinois Dept. of Crop Sciences, Illinois, 60550