Replicated manure vs. commercial fertilizer plot on corn (Year 2)

Blair Hoseth

The purpose is to compare yields on corn and soybeans in a replicated plot between using commercial fertilizer vs beef manure . Also how the organic matter, micro and macro nutrients will be affected comparing the 2 fertilization methods in the soil. Will compare the net profit per acre. This project will be a 25-acre corn plot with 4 replications using beef manure vs commercial fertilizer. The preplant commercial fertilizer will be Urea, P, K, and sulfur. 10-34-0 will be applied at planting time at 3 gallons/acre. Liquid manure slurry is applied in the fall. The manure and fertilizer will be incorporated with a vertical tillage tool or field cultivator depending on the amount of residue. It will be broadcast sprayed using a post-application of herbicide. Harvested with a 12-row corn head using 2020 yield monitor giving us accurate yield comparisons. We will do soil and manure tests. We will be continuing to put cover crop on all our acres including this plot.