Would you recommend starter fertilizer for corn?
Jan 08, 2012
Question: Would you recommend starter fertilizer in corn?
Answer: Starter fertilizer can definitely help you gain more bushels in the field, but the response can and does vary year-to-year. In our test plots, on average, we’re seeing a 7 bu. to 10 bu. per acre response when we use starter. Bear in mind that success with starter fertilizer is very dependent on optimum timing and good placement. In addition, you may want to consider incorporating some zinc into your starter as zinc can help improve consistency of response. If you add zinc, make sure you buy a good quality zinc and mix according to the label. We’re seeing about a 7 bu. average response to adding 9% EDTA chelated zinc at the rate of 1 qt. per 20 lb. of phosphorus.
Want to bump those yields this year, then look into the opportunities available with starter fertilizer.
