SITUATION

FACTORS TO CONSIDER

• Soil temperature
• Moisture levels
• Residue
• Soil type
• Organic matter
• Soil testing

ACTION PLAN

1. Understand the importance of a starter fertilizer application. Starter fertilizer is a concentration of fertilizer placed near the corn root zone at planting to help plants get off to a healthy start. The primary purpose for using a starter fertilizer is to increase the nutrient source for the newly formed root system and help with any adverse conditions that may arise soon after planting. Increasing uniform plant development allows all plants a chance to reach their full yield potential.
2. Determine the best application type for the situation. Before applying starter fertilizer, it’s important to determine which application method is best for the situation and ensure the proper equipment is available. Common ways to apply a starter fertilizer effectively are two-by-two, surface dribble and in the furrow (“pop-up”).
   
   Two-by-two placement is the most common, consisting of applying starter fertilizer 2 inches to the side and 2 inches below the seed depth. This requires precision placement and specialized equipment. Placing fertilizer below ground reduces the likelihood of runoff compared with surface-applied fertilizers. Two-by-two placement is an excellent choice for applying a portion of your crop nutrient needs next to the seed for the greatest response.
   
   Surface dribble delivers a stream of fertilizer on top of the surface 2 inches to one side of the corn row. This method requires less equipment expense.
   
   In-furrow “pop-up” placement requires basic equipment to apply starter fertilizer in the seed furrow. This method is best used in areas with high nutrient levels where lower fertility rates are needed and prevents seedling injury. When placing fertilizer in the seed furrow, take caution as applying too much can damage the seed.
   
   Depending on the soil type and amount of fertilizer applied, all of these fertilizer placement methods have benefits. Consult your fertilizer supplier on the type of fertilizer being used and the amount safe for in-furrow application.
3. Be aware of timing, soil temperature and type. It’s advantageous to apply a starter fertilizer in early spring, when the soil temperature is not warm enough to mineralize the organic matter for critical nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus in conventional and/or no-till situations. Starter fertilizer application on cool, wet soils will supply nitrogen and phosphorus to the plants, producing healthier plants, vigorous root systems, faster growth, quicker canopy closure and higher yields. Using a good starter fertilizer program also can be beneficial on soils with a pH below 6 where the aluminum and iron are tying up phosphorus.

SUMMARY