Using this management technique can decrease production costs. Several satisfactory sources of nitrogen are available for topdressing small grain. These solutions contain from 30 to 32 percent actual nitrogen. Although the solution may cause slight foliar burn, there is no likelihood of reduced yields from this effect. This source may not always be as readily available as solution nitrogen.
Ammonium sulfate is readily available, especially in eastern North Carolina.
This nutrient may be important in fields with rather deep sandy surfaces and to which no other sulfur was applied within the past one or two years. Its popularity stems from its high nitrogen content, its usually competitive price, and its low degree of metal corrosion. Under certain conditions, volatility losses can occur when urea is applied to sandy soil. However, if it is broadcast as early as possible in the spring when the soil surface is moist, wind speed is at a minimum, temperature is relatively low, and humidity is high, no loss should occur. When applied to silty or clayey soil surfaces, volatilization does not seem to be a problem.