Iron deficiency in soya beans as well as the soil itself , soil pH , soil moisture , structure , compaction , the hybrid and timing ," says Vyn . He emphasizes the need for more research to better understand these factors , in particular timing and placement of application on fields where micronutrient deficiencies have been observed .
" We are trying to drive home how much micronutrient uptake takes place during grain fill ," says Vyn . " We found that 50 % of iron and 30 % of manganese enters the plant after flowering . Up to 55 % of zinc found in the maize plant at maturity enters the plant after silking . However , optimum timing of micronutrient uptake , in terms of high-yield component formation , was not tested in that study of different hybrids , N rates and plant populations ."
Foliar micronutrients
For Charles Schulze , who farms near Waynesfield , Ohio , timing is key . For the past 15 years , he has relied on in-furrow liquid starter to ensure micronutrient availability to boost the plant and root system . About 10 years ago , he added a foliar micronutrient application in late June to maize and soya beans and a late-July application to soybeans . Combined with a basic fertility program and side dressing nitrogen , he claims a 390-470 kg / Ha increased yield in maize and a 250-370Kg / Ha yield increase in soya beans from the comprehensive program .
" I believe spoon-feeding my crops has to be better than all at once ," says Schulze . " Once I saw the plant health and yield benefits from the starter and then the foliar , I ramped up the program accordingly ."
Schulze broadcasts phosphorus and potassium in front of the maize planter , lays down a 06- 24-06 liquid starter with manganese , boron and zinc and other additives in-furrow along with about 20 % of his nitrogen as 10-34-0 dry in a 2 ” x2 ” alongside the row . That is followed by anhydrous ammonia sidedressed for the bulk of his N and the foliar applications .
FARMERS GAZETTE November 2015 35