Evaluation of Sensor-Based Nitrogen Rates and Sources in Wheat

Abstract

Nitrogen (N) is one of the most essential nutrients needed to reach maximum grain yield in all environments. Nitrogen fertilizers represent an important production cost, in both monetary and environmental terms. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of preplant nitrogen (N) rate and topdress N source on spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grain yield and quality. Study was conducted in North-Central and Western Montana from 2011 to 2013 (total of 6 site-years). Six different preplant nitrogen (N) rates (0, 220, 22, 44, 67, and 90 N rate, kg ha−1) followed by two topdress N sources (urea, 46-0-0, and urea ammonium nitrate (UAN), 32-0-0) were applied to spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The results showed that there were no significant differences in grain yield, protein content, or protein yield, associated with topdress N source.