What fertilizer is used for corn topdressing

Corn topdressing can use fertilizers such as urea, diammonium phosphate, potassium sulfate, organic fertilizers, and compound fertilizers. Topdressing should be selected reasonably based on the growth stage, soil conditions, and nutritional requirements of corn to promote robust plant growth and yield improvement.

1. Urea

Urea has a high nitrogen content and is suitable for use during the corn jointing stage to the large horn stage, which can promote stem and leaf growth. Deep soil cover or combined irrigation should be applied during application to avoid nitrogen volatilization loss. Be careful to avoid excessive use that may cause excessive growth or lodging of plants.

2. Diammonium phosphate

Diammonium phosphate is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus elements, suitable for topdressing from seedling stage to before tasseling, and can promote root development and spike differentiation. The effect is significant in phosphorus deficient soil, but it is necessary to avoid mixing with alkaline fertilizers to prevent the failure of phosphorus fixation.

3. Potassium sulfate

Potassium sulfate is suitable for use from the booting stage to the filling stage of corn. supplementing potassium can enhance lodging resistance and improve grain plumpness. Potassium chloride should be avoided for chlorine sensitive varieties, and potassium sulfate is a safer choice.

4. Organic fertilizer

Fermented farm manure or commercial organic fertilizer can improve soil structure and slowly release nutrients. Suitable as a base fertilizer supplement or in combination with chemical fertilizers during the mid growth stage, but it is necessary to ensure sufficient maturation to avoid burning seedlings and the spread of pests and diseases.

5. Compound fertilizer

A compound fertilizer with balanced nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can meet the needs of corn throughout its growth period and is suitable for simplifying fertilization management. When choosing high nitrogen or high potassium compound fertilizers, it is necessary to match the growth stage and pay attention to controlling the dosage to avoid salt damage.

The formula for corn topdressing should be adjusted based on soil testing results. For sandy soil, a small amount should be applied multiple times, and for clay, the single application amount can be appropriately increased. Timely irrigation after fertilization can improve fertilizer efficiency and avoid surface application during dry seasons. Pay attention to observing the growth of plants and changes in leaf color. When symptoms of nutrient deficiency occur, corresponding micro fertilizers can be sprayed on the leaves. Stop fertilizing 20 days before harvest to ensure grain quality. Reasonable crop rotation and straw returning can reduce fertilizer dependence and maintain the sustainability of soil fertility.