Agriculture, how to fertilize corn for high production and quality
It is an advance on cultivation that weighs on the final economic account of corn, but much of the productive success of corn cultivation (weather permitting) depends, in addition to water, on the correct fertilization plan.
In this regard, it should be remembered first of all (and unfortunately some forget to do so) how much nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium is required by corn that yields 130 quintals of dry grain. The data on average is as follows:
- Nitrogen: 290 units
- Phosphorus: 130 units
- Potassium: 280 units
From this premise it is clear that corn “must be fed”, otherwise the crop does not yield as it could. So what is a correct fertilization plan? Although it would be good to have a soil analysis (to be repeated at least every five years) to establish with utmost precision how to operate, here are some general indications.
Pre-seeding phase
At least 30% of the total nitrogen together with 80 units/ha of phosphorus and all the potassium should be given in the pre-seeding phase. As regards this nutrient, it should be borne in mind that when crop residues are left on the ground, four fifths of the potassium removed is returned to the field, therefore the new dose to be distributed is minimal, as long as the soil does not show obvious deficiencies of this element.
Seeding
Fundamental at seeding time is the addition of localized phosphorus, which has an indispensable starter effect on the good spurt of the radicle. If the micro-granulator location channel is used, the phosphate fertilizer dose is approximately 30-40 kg/ha.
Two nitrogen interventions on the surface
The 190 nitrogen units per hectare that remain to be distributed on the surface should be divided in two different times to avoid dispersions and above all to gradually accompany the growth of the crop. The first distribution must be made by the shooting, i.e. when the plants are at three leaves, and the second after 30 to 35 days.
If controlled release nitrogen forms are used in the pre-seeding phase, some units can be withheld in the surface fertilizations.