Article by Dale Cowan
Agronomy Strategy Manager and Senior Agronomist
AGRIS Co-operative - CENTRAL OFFICE
The 4R Nutrient Stewardship framework is widely recognized in agriculture, promoting the Right Product, Right Rate, Right Place, and Right Time for nutrient applications. But beyond nutrient management, this approach can also help farmers track performance indicators to optimize efficiency and profitability.
Why Performance Indicators Matter
Performance indicators allow farmers to evaluate key areas of their operation and identify ways to improve efficiency. Some examples include:
- Tracking nutrient use efficiency (NUE) for better fertilizer management.
- Evaluating weed resistance strategies to enhance herbicide programs.
- Testing new tillage practices to improve soil health and structure.
- Measuring carbon intensity scores to align with sustainability goals.
How Much Nitrogen Does High-Yield Corn Really Need?
A common question is whether high-yield corn requires higher nitrogen (N) rates. Research and farm trials show that yield potential does not always correlate with increased N applications. Here’s why:
Industry recommendations suggest various N rates, ranging from 1.5 lbs. per bushel down to 0.9 lbs. per bushel, as per the Ontario Nitrogen Calculator (ONC). However, yield variability makes it difficult to set a precise rate at the start of the season. Adaptive nitrogen strategies can help farmers fine-tune their N applications based on real-time field data.
Tools to Improve Nitrogen Use Efficiency
Farmers have several tools at their disposal to monitor nitrogen availability and optimize usage:
- Adapt-N Model: Tracks plant growth, N uptake, and losses to adjust recommendations throughout the season.
- Pre-Sidedress Nitrate Test (PSNT): Measures soil nitrate levels before sidedress applications to refine N rates.
- Delta Yield N Calculator: Uses low-N check blocks and high-rate strips to determine actual crop response.
Real-World Example: Finding the Optimal N Rate
In a recent farm trial on loam soil with a 3.6% organic matter content, the initial nitrogen plan was set for 220 bushels per acre, applying 200 lbs. of actual N. However, the final yield reached 266 bushels per acre—without increasing N application.
Here’s how different N models compared:
- Adapt-N Recommendation: 205 lbs. of N
- PSNT Recommendation: 188 lbs. of N
- ONC Recommendation: 175 lbs. of N
- Farmer’s Standard Rate: 200 lbs. of N
The Delta Yield trial determined that the optimal N rate would have been 180 lbs. per acre, reinforcing the importance of in-season monitoring rather than applying excess N upfront.
Take Action: Improve Your Crop Performance in 2025
Maximizing nitrogen efficiency is just one piece of the puzzle. A comprehensive crop plan that includes performance indicators, real-time adjustments, and precision agriculture tools will help optimize productivity and profitability.
Want to fine-tune your nitrogen strategy? Work with your AGRIS Crop Sales Specialist to set up on-farm trials and improve your nutrient management plan for 2025.
Your farm’s success starts with the right data and the right strategy—let’s build yours today!