INCREASE WHEAT YIELDS WITH IN-FURROW PHOSPHORUS
/A strong start is vital for the successful growth of any crop, including winter wheat. While many wheat growers focus on preparing the seedbed and ensuring optimal seed placement, there is one important element that may be overlooked in some winter wheat programs: starter phosphorus. Ontario research has demonstrated that when MAP (monoammonium phosphate @ 100lbs/ac) is placed in-furrow with the wheat seed, it leads to an average yield increase of 7.5 bushels per acre. Considering the cost of MAP compared to liquid sources of phosphorus, adding a granular fertilizer system to a grain drill has the potential to provide significant returns for winter wheat growers.
Enhanced Stand Establishment
One of the main reasons for the improved yields observed in these studies is the establishment of stronger stand establishment. In-furrow phosphorus applications promote stronger early root growth and result in more uniform emergence, even in a variety of soil types. This system has shown particular promise in challenging winter survival conditions. For instance, when comparing side-by-side strips in these studies, those with no fertilizer achieved only 30% winter survival, whereas rows planted adjacent with in-furrow MAP application achieved 85% winter survival. While substantial yield increases were observed across most study sites, soils with low soil test phosphorus levels (13 ppm and below) exhibited the greatest potential for yield improvement. In fact, one site in the study experienced a yield increase of 21 bushels per acre. The results have clearly shown that adding phosphorus at planting produces more bushels at harvest.
Reduced Nutrient Losses
Placing phosphorus in the seed furrow also mitigates the risk of phosphorus loss. Surface-applied MAP is at risk of being lost to runoff which may result in the loss of fertilizer investment and increase the potential for environmental consequences such as algae blooms in waterways. Leaching, another concern, may also lead to nutrient runoff into waterways. By placing phosphorus with the seed, the plant roots have easy access to the applied fertilizer, maximizing uptake and minimizing the risk of phosphorus leaching through the soil profile. The studies conducted on this practice revealed that broadcast applications, despite using higher application rates, did not achieve the same yield increases as in-furrow applications. Therefore, reducing nutrient loss not only benefits the environment but also offers growers the best value for their investment.
Grain Drill Upgrades
For growers interested in adding a granular fertilizer system to their grain drill, the Salford Valmar 56 Series is an ideal solution. The 56 Series can be easily calibrated to accurately apply a wide range of products, including MAP and cover crop seed. The tank can be skid mounted onto the drill, or if space is limited, Salford offers two alternative mounting solutions: a 3-point hitch mount that situates the applicator between the tractor and the implement, or a chariot mount that can be towed behind the implement. The 56 Series is available with either ground-driven or hydraulically driven metering and can be configured for variable rate application if desired.
Traditionally, the process of adding in-furrow phosphorus to winter wheat involved mixing it with the wheat seed. However, with Salford Valmar 56 Series, in-furrow phosphorus application has become more precise and efficient. When tank mixing fertilizer and wheat, it is possible for the mix to settle as the drill goes across the field which may result in an uneven distribution of fertilizer and seed. The 56 Series allows for a perfect blend in the furrow without reducing the capacity of the seed drill. At a rate of 100 pounds per acres of MAP (the most economical rate according to the studies above), the capacity of a Valmar 6056 applicator would pair almost perfectly with a John Deere 1590 or 750 drill seeding wheat.
Additionally, by keeping the fertilizer out of the drill and placing it in the polyurethane tank of the 56 Series, prevents rusting and helps retain a better trade value of the drill over time. The Salford Valmar 56 Series revolutionizes the application of in-furrow phosphorus in winter wheat, offering enhanced accuracy, simplicity, and equipment longevity making it a fit for any grain drill.
SOURCES: Moyer, J. (2013, June 7). Winter wheat needs phosphorus. Top Crop Manager. https://www.topcropmanager.com/winter-wheat-needs-phosphorus-13625/
Johnson, P. (2012, February 2). Starter Phosphorus Increases Winter Wheat Yields. Ontario Soil & Crop. https://www.osciaresearch.org/uploads/source/2011_CAs/v8crpadv_cer2-2011_starter_phosphorus_increases_winter_wheat_yields.pdf
