NDSU recommends applying starter phosphorus (P) fertilizer for corn to promote early season plant growth and increase grain yield potential. Starter fertilizer should be band-applied within two inches of the seed, either in-furrow (IF) or side-band. Generally, the ‘starter’ effect can be achieved with 2.5-3 gpa of 10-34-0.

In CREC corn trials conducted during 2007-10 on soils testing low to medium for P (5-10 ppm Olsen test), yield averaged 124 bu/A with IF 10-34-0 applied at 2-4 gpa compared to the untreated check at 112 bu/A.  When the rate of IF-applied 10-34-0 was raised from an average of 3 gpa to 6 gpa, yield increased 7 bu/A. Approximate cost of 10-34-0 is $3/gal averaged across 7 CREC trials conducted in 2008-10, yield response with 5-6 gpa 10-34-0 applied IF compared to a 2-inch band was similar (both placement methods resulted in 127 bu/A).

2015 corn fertilizer trial treatments planned with 10-34-0 include broadcast, pre-plant incorporated versus a starter band; IF plus 2-inch band versus sole starter application methods; and IF 10-34-0 versus 6-24-6.

Greg Endres
Area Specialist, Cropping Systems