Updated corn nitrogen rates: Regional differences, profit vs yield, water quality & more

This month on the Nutrient Management Podcast, we talk about a recent increase in N rate recommendations for corn. Why have these suggested nitrogen rates for corn increased over time? How are regional differences across Minnesota factored into this increase? Why does the Maximum Return to Nitrogen (MRTN) method of N rate calculation bring economics into the mix? Why should growers focus on profit instead of yield? Won't a higher nitrogen rate make our SE Minnesota water issues worse? Our panelists answer these important questions - and many more - on today's show.

Read the full transcript

Guests:

• Jeff Vetsch, U of M researcher (Waseca)
• Daniel Kaiser, Extension nutrient management specialist (St. Paul)
• Brad Carlson, Extension educator (Mankato)

Additional Resources:

• www.cornnratecalc.org (N Rate Calculator)
• Updated corn nitrogen rates: What are we currently seeing for N fertilizer requirements in Minnesota?
• An introduction to MRTN: Efficiencies & economics in mind
• 2025 fall fertilizer outlook: Management tips during economic uncertainty
• With high nitrogen fertilizer prices and low corn prices, can you decrease your nitrogen rate for 2026?

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Support for the Nutrient Management Podcast is provided by Minnesota's fertilizer tonnage fee through the Agricultural Fertilizer Research & Education Council (AFREC). Learn more at MNsoilfertility.com.