The risks associated with reduced yield as a consequence of insufficient N is an economic reality for corn producers, while excess N applications and the associated environmental risks may be a vaguely perceived issue unrelated to individual practices. Our objective was to illustrate the utility of precision agriculture technologies for improving N recommendations for individual fields and localized areas within a field. Grain yield was also smaller at these sites, although N rates to achieve maximum yield were similar among sites. Using precision agriculture technologies producers should be able to reduce N rates, yet be reassured that sufficient N is applied to produce maximum yields.
Problematic areas are spatially variable but temporally stable.
Our objective was to determine the correct application rate of FeSO4 monohydrate to improve yield for corn in problematic areas, and to evaluate the potential for targeted application using precision farming technologies. Five irrigated cornfields in SW Kansas were identified for Fe deficiency symptoms. The FeSO4 monohydrate was applied through insecticide boxes on the planter and placed in the seed slot with the seed. The foliar Fe application was applied at about the V4 growth stage. Forty feet in each plot was hand harvested to determine yield.