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Advantages to split-applying nitrogen

An agronomist recommends split-applying nitrogen to maximize fertilizer efficiency.

Andrew Penney with DEKALB Asgrow says the concept is proving effective.

“Depending on when you do it and what you use as far as anhydrous versus 32 percent versus urea, we’ve seen yield responses with split applications. But now we’re factoring the price.”

He tells Brownfield split applications can not only generate better returns, it can also mitigate risk.

“When you put all of that nitrogen on upfront, you’re kind of left at the will of Mother Nature. If she gives you a wet spring, you have the potential for loss, whether it’s denitrification or leaching.”

Penney, who covers southwest Iowa, says split-applying nitrogen can increase yield and prevent nutrient loss.