As the UK grapples with prolonged wet weather affecting crop health, the spotlight is on hybrid barley cultivation and the strategic application of nitrogen fertilizers. Early nitrogen applications are proving to be a crucial factor in supporting the vigorous spring growth of hybrid barley crops, particularly in waterlogged conditions. In this article, we explore the significance of timely nitrogen applications, the mechanics behind it, and the potential benefits for crop performance.
The Importance of Early Nitrogen Applications:
Ben Urquhart, a hybrid barley technical expert, emphasizes the significance of early nitrogen applications for hybrid barley crops facing challenging weather conditions. The extensive rainfall during the winter has impacted autumn cropping, making it vital to support crops with their first dose of nitrogen in the spring. Studies by Syngenta reveal that this early application plays a pivotal role in enhancing root density, tillering capacity, and overall crop resilience.
Mechanism and Best Practices:
Drip irrigation, also known as trickle or micro-irrigation, revolutionizes traditional watering methods by delivering water directly to the base of plants in a slow and precise manner. Unlike flood or sprinkler systems, which may lead to water wastage through evaporation or runoff, drip systems target water exactly where it’s needed, promoting water conservation and minimizing risks associated with weed growth and diseases.
Best Practices for Nitrogen Application:
- Timely Application:
Aim to apply the first split of nitrogen in the spring at around mid-tillering (GS25) when crops are ready to take up the nutrients. Root zone temperatures reaching 4.5-5oC indicate optimal conditions for nitrogen uptake. - Ground Conditions:
Ensure suitable ground conditions for application. Avoid applying fertilizers on wet fields or before forecasted rain to prevent nitrogen from ending up elsewhere. - Split Dose Strategy:
Syngenta trials recommend a three-split program, with 30% at GS25, 50% at or just before GS31, and the remaining 20% two to three weeks after the second application for optimum performance. - Adaptation to Crop Growth:
If conditions delay the first application beyond GS25, consider a two-split program of 50% followed by 50% 3-4 weeks later, especially for thin or waterlogged crops. - Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE):
Syngenta trials suggest that hybrid barley may exhibit better NUE compared to conventional barley, providing confidence for growers considering modest reductions in nitrogen rates.
In Shorts:
In the face of unpredictable weather patterns and waterlogged fields, the strategic application of nitrogen emerges as a lifeline for hybrid barley crops. Timely and well-calibrated nitrogen applications not only support crop growth but also contribute to water conservation efforts. As agriculture navigates the challenges of sustainability, hybrid barley cultivation with optimized nitrogen management stands as a beacon of resilience and productivity.
