Corn in Mississippi
Is starter fertilizer advantageous for corn?
Starter fertilizer application normally prevents temporary corn phosphorus deficiency during the early spring. Since phosphorus is relatively immobile in the soil solution, close root proximity to fertilizer is important. Corn often responds to starter fertilizer because applying a concentrated zone close to the roots maximizes phosphorus availability when root proliferation is sparse.
Starter fertilizer normally improves corn vegetative growth, promotes early maturity and results in lower grain moisture at harvest. Corn grain yield responses typically vary from no response up to 15% higher yields. Article The magnitude of corn grain yield response to starter fertilizer depends upon many factors, including seasonal environmental conditions, tillage system, application method, and even particular hybrids. Three Publications
Southern producers often apply starter fertilizer (10-34-0 or 11-37-0) with equipment used to apply cotton fungicides in-furrow with favorable results. Apply a maximum of 4 gallons per acre in 38 - 40" width rows or 5 gallons per acre in 30" width rows, or salting injury may occur to seedlings.
Cornbelt growers commonly use coulter rigs that band starter fertilizer to the side and below the seed. These systems maximize placement efficiency and improve seedling safety (salting injury), permitting higher fertilizer rates.
