At the University of Delaware, Jarrod Miller and Amy Shober are working to increase Sulfur (S) and Boron (B) fertilizer rates as a starter and side-dress to measure its effects of S, B, and Nitrogen (N) tissue concentrations and overall corn yield.
Sulfur and Nitrogen typically increase in the corn plant together, but a negative relationship has been observed with Boron. Results observed through a three-year study will address the RFP in updating Nutrient Management Recommendations.
Ear leaf tissue samples across the Mid-Atlantic variety trails have observed positive effects on yield with tissue N and S concentrations, but the reverse relationship with B (often below the threshold of 10 ppm). If the addition of B is made to overcome this critical threshold, management must be determined to prevent the reduction of N and S uptake into the plant.
The 2022 project aims to raise S tissue content above 0.2% to improve yield and raise B content without sacrificing uptake of N or S.
The Maryland Grain Producers are excited to see the results of this research. This is the second year that the Maryland Grain Producers have funded this project, this years amount totaling $7,206.