Combining slow release and conventional nitrogen fertilizer to reduce leaching and stabilize annual potato yields

Description

Meeting nitrogen requirements mainly through the use of a highly stable form of fertilizer can minimize nitrogen losses, provide nitrogen amounts closer to the plant’s actual needs, and stabilize or increase potato yields. Using a conventional starter fertilizer makes up for the delay in nitrogen release from the slow release fertilizer in the spring.

Objective(s)

• Minimize nitrate (NO3) leaching and stabilize yields based on crop nitrogen requirements
• Determine:
  • What fraction of the plant’s nitrogen requirements should be met by a conventional starter fertilizer
  • Whether overall nitrogen inputs can be reduced
  • Whether all the fertilizer can be applied at planting
• Determine the effect of the various scenarios on yield, nitrogen uptake, and residual nitrate
• Compare revenues and costs in the different treatments