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PodcastArkansas Row CropsJun 23, 2020

Why Timing Matters for Mid-Season Nitrogen in Rice

Mid-season nitrogen application timing is crucial for rice yields.

AI-generated source brief by USFarms.ag, based on Arkansas Row Crops. How our briefs are made

Source published Jun 23, 2020. Check the source date before applying seasonal guidance. Brief published .

fertilizationnitrogen managementcrop yieldrice production

Source summary

What this podcast covered

Importance of Timing

The timing of nitrogen applications is crucial for maximizing rice yields. Applying nitrogen too early can lead to poor uptake and inconsistent results, while waiting until the appropriate growth stage can enhance crop performance.

Mid-Season vs. Late Boot

For non-hybrid rice varieties, mid-season nitrogen applications are recommended after the green ring stage. In contrast, hybrid rice should only receive nitrogen during the late boot stage to avoid excessive growth and ensure better yield outcomes.

Economic Considerations

Proper nitrogen management not only improves crop yield but also enhances economic returns. Farmers can expect a positive net return from timely nitrogen applications, making it a worthwhile investment in their rice production strategy.

Key takeaways

5 things worth knowing

  1. 01

    Mid-season nitrogen application should occur after the green ring stage.

  2. 02

    Wait at least four weeks post-flood for optimal nitrogen uptake.

  3. 03

    Hybrid rice should only receive nitrogen at the late boot stage.

  4. 04

    Splitting mid-season nitrogen applications may not be beneficial unless the first is too early.

  5. 05

    Proper timing can significantly improve yield and economic returns.

Source figures at a glance

At a glance

What the podcast covered, in 4 signals

Fertilization

Critical Timing

Mid-season nitrogen

Timing affects rice yield significantly.

Growth Stages

Key Milestones

Green ring

Wait for this stage before applying nitrogen.

Hybrids

Late Boot Application

Hybrid rice

Nitrogen should be applied at late boot stage.

Economic Returns

Positive Impact

Nitrogen applications

Proper timing leads to better profitability.

Questions & answers

Quick answers

What is the best timing for mid-season nitrogen application in rice?

The best timing is after the green ring stage and at least four weeks post-flood.

Why should hybrid rice not receive mid-season nitrogen?

Applying nitrogen during mid-season can lead to excessive height and rank growth, which is not beneficial.

How much nitrogen should be applied at the late boot stage for hybrids?

A late boot application should consist of 65 pounds of urea, equating to 30 pounds of nitrogen per acre.

Can splitting nitrogen applications improve yield?

Splitting applications may not yield additional benefits unless the first application is made too early.

What are the economic benefits of proper nitrogen timing?

Proper timing can lead to a positive net return, meaning farmers will earn more from their crops than the cost of the nitrogen applied.

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