In-furrow starter fertilization enhances growth and maturity in early sweet corn

Field studies were conducted in 1994 and 1995 to evaluate the effects of in-furrow-placed (i.e., applied directly in the seed channel) starter fertilizer on the emergence, maturity, and yield response of early sweet corn. In both years, three starter fertilizer treatments were applied: A.P., with N and P at 13 and 19 kg(.)ha-1, respectively (13N-19P kg(.)ha-1), either banded (5 cm below and 5 cm to the side of the seed) or placed in-furrow, and a control (no starter fertilizer). Additionally, in 1995, the rate of A.P. was increased to supply 26N-38P kg(.)ha-1 in combination with either hand (5 x 5 cm) or in-furrow placement. Seedling emergence was delayed whenever starter fertilizer was applied with the seed; however, significant reductions (approximately 21%) in plant stand occurred only at the high rate of in-furrow placement. In both years, all starter treatments had a positive effect on seedling dry-matter production, and hastened sicking. In-furrow application of 13N-19P kg(.)ha-1 increased marketable ear yields 34% in 1995, but had no affect in 1994. Lack of yield response to the high rate of in-furrow fertilizer in 1995 was primarily a function of reduced stand, as ear number and ear mass per plant, and average ear size were similar to those in the other starter treatments. Based on these results, in-furrow A.P. at 13N-19P kg(.)ha-1 appears to be an effective starter fertilization regime for early sweet corn, comparable in effect to banded 26N-38P kg(.)ha-1. However, high rates of in-furrow A.P. may reduce stands. Although significant yield response to in-furrow starter fertilizer may not always be realized, the increased early seedling growth may itself be a benefit, since fast-growing seedlings are more likely to be tolerant of adverse environmental conditions than are less vigorous plants.