CHALLENGE on Corn
5
Whitewater, WI, USA 2024
5
Key Conclusions
-
The use of CHALLENGE 8-32-5 in-furrow starter fertilizer led to a faster emergence rate compared to the control, though final stand counts at harvest were similar between the two treatments.
-
The application delivered an impressive 11.7 bushel per acre boost in corn yield over the control, showcasing a significant and rewarding yield response.
-
The yield increase translated to a gross return of approximately $52.65 per acre, indicating a profitable impact of using the fertilizer at the evaluated rate.
Objective
To evaluate the response of corn grain yield to Challenge 8-32-5 as an in-furrow starter fertilizer in a location that has consistently responded positively to starter fertilizer applications.
Trial Details
Treatments
An established corn field was used for this randomized complete block design trial, with four replications and a control treatment. The trial site was fertile, with soil temperatures around 53ºF at planting. Emergence began on May 28, 2024.
Timing & Rates
- Challenge 8-32-5 was applied at a rate of 1 gallon per acre, delivered in a total volume of 5 gallons per acre (1 gallon product plus 4 gallons water) to ensure even distribution.
- The control treatment did not receive an in-furrow starter fertilizer application.
Soil Type: Fertile, well-drained soil suitable for corn production.
Treatments
An established corn field was used for this randomized complete block design trial, with four replications and a control treatment. The trial site was fertile, with soil temperatures around 53ºF at planting. Emergence began on May 28, 2024.
Timing & Rates
- Challenge 8-32-5 was applied at a rate of 1 gallon per acre, delivered in a total volume of 5 gallons per acre (1 gallon product plus 4 gallons water) to ensure even distribution.
- The control treatment did not receive an in-furrow starter fertilizer application.
Soil Type: Fertile, well-drained soil suitable for corn production.
Results
- Stand count data (not shown) indicates that CHALLENGE resulted in a more rapid emergence rate, but final stand counts at harvest were relatively similar for both the control and CHALLENGE treatments.
- The addition of CHALLENGE resulted in a 11.7 bushel per acre increase in yield over the control treatment which received no in-furrow starter fertilizer. This equated to a gross return of approximately $52.65 per acre based on $4.50 per bushel corn.