Michigan State University Extension
Soils & Soil Management - Fertilizer - 06029714
07/10/97
Fertilizer Recommendations for Field Crops in Michigan Extension Bulletin E-550A, March 1992
D. R. Christenson, D. D. Warncke, M. L. Vitosh, L. W. Jacobs and J. G. Dahl, Department of Crop and Soil Sciences
Follow recommendations based on a soil test. Then apply up to 60 pounds of nitrogen, all of the phosphate and 100 pounds of potash per acre in bands 2 inches to the side and level with or slightly below the seed pieces. Additional potash (and phosphate if needed) can be broadcast and incorporated before planting. Supplemental nitrogen can be sidedressed, applied in the irrigation water or in the spray program. Applying nitrogen after plant emergence is generally more efficient than nitrogen applied preplant. After harvest, establish cover crops to take up any residual nitrogen and to protect the soil against wind erosion.
Manganese may be needed when mineral soils test above pH 6.5 and above pH 5.8 on organic soils. Use a soil test to determine the need for manganese. See (Vis. 3), (Vis. 4) for manganese recommendations based on soil test.
Fall applications of potash are not recommended on loamy sand, sand and organic soils because of potential loss by leaching. Spring plow-down applications are suggested when high rates of potassium are required.
Nitrogen fertilizer recommendations are based on expected yield goal and are then adjusted for varietal differences and nitrogen fixed by previous legume crop. Russet Burbank is the only variety where the nitrogen rate should be adjusted. Increase the recommendation by 40 pounds per acre for this variety.
Mineral Soils-Refer to (Vis. 13) for nitrogen, phosphate and potash recommendations for potatoes grown on mineral soils.
Organic Soils-See (Vis. 16), (Vis. 17), (Vis. 18). Nitrogen recommendations for field crops grown on organic soils.
