Split Nitrogen Applications for Biggest Benefit

May 28, 2025


young corn plants
Side dressing nitrogen (N) in a split application (with the first application at planting) can improve yields and keep the N available longer.
 
“You are protecting your investment,” said Ryan Peterson, Federated’s custom application manager, especially on lighter/sandy soils.
 
Splitting the N applications 50-50 over the two passes is common, but one-third at planting and then two-thirds at side dress is also effective. Sometimes it’s all about the weather forecast at planting, Peterson noted.
 
For growers calling on Federated for custom fertilizer applications, remember “we can’t do [all the spreading] in the two days before [predicted] rainfall,” said Peterson.
 
“Have your plan of action in place … and give us a heads up for scheduling,” he added.
 
Meet your crop’s nitrogen needs with the best fertilizer application options. Talk to your Federated Agronomist.
 

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