Assessing and Improving nitrogen Management in Wheat
Agronomy & Pest Management
Aaron Esser
Extension Agronomist
Washington State University
RITZVILLE
Abstract
Nitrogen fertilizer is one of the single largest expenses for wheat (Triticum aestivum L) production each year and has the greatest influence on yield on a yearly basis, excluding mother nature. Today nitrogen fertilizer prices are at or near record highs, and wheat commodity prices are also approaching record high prices. This scenario is unprecedented and creates a lot of risks and the potential for rewards for farmers and heightens the need to properly manage nitrogen fertilizer. The Post Harvest Nitrogen Efficiency Calculator (wsu.edu) and the Nitrogen Fertilizer Recommendation Calculator (wsu.edu) are two tools designed to help farmers across the country assess and improve nitrogen management in their wheat production systems. This presentation will focus on how to utilize these calculators and provide demonstrations with specific examples. Nitrogen uptake efficiency, nutrient uptake and removal, and pounds of nitrogen per bushel of wheat production will be a major focus. Of course, good nitrogen management starts with proper soil sampling, and this will also be integrated into the presentation.
Authors: Aaron Esser
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Aaron Esser Extension Agronomist, Professor, Washington, 99169-1894