Progress 10/01/09 to 12/31/12
Outputs
Target Audience: Crop producers in Montana. Changes/Problems: Project is terminated. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?
Nothing Reported
How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? County and regional educational meetings. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Compared ESN and urea for corn production with the result that there were no difference in performance. Conducted pea and lentil variety trials. The results have been reported by C. Chen.
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/11 to 12/31/11
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Field trials were conducted at three locations in Montana: an irrigated site at the Western Agricultural Research Center (WARC) and two dryland sites, one at Northwestern Agricultural Research Center (NWARC) and one at the Western Triangle Agricultural Research Center (WTARC). Plots were arranged in a split-plot design with N source (urea, ESN, and a 50:50 blend of urea and ESN) x N fertilizer rate (0, 50, 100, and 150 lbs N/ac) as the main plot factor and top-dress (0 or 40 lb N/ac) as the subplot factor. At NWARC, hard red spring wheat (cv. Choteau) was planted at a rate of 80 lb/ac on May 2, 2011 into plots measuring 4' x 15'. An error in calculation resulted in double the amount of fertilizer being applied and plots actually received N at a rate of 0, 100, 200 and 300 lb N/ac. At WARC, hard red spring wheat (cv. Choteau) was planted at a rate of 62 lb/ac on April 22, 2011 into plots measuring 4' x 20'. At WTARC, hard red spring wheat (cv. Choteau) was planted at a rate of 80 lb/ac on May 5, 2011, into plots measuring 5' x 25'. There was an error in calculation of the 50:50 ESN: Urea blend at this location, where the blend treatments received 100% of the urea and additional ESN at the 50% rate. For example, if the total rate was 100 lbs N/ac, the blend at WTARC was 100 lbs N as urea plus 50 lb N/ac as ESN. At all locations, each plot was split into two subplots at Feekes 5 growth stage. One subplot received an additional 40 lb N/ac urea as a top-dress, while the other plot received no top-dress. At crop maturity, whole plant samples were collected at WARC and were analyzed for total N content. Following harvest, plot yield and grain protein were determined at all locations. Grain yield and protein data were adjusted for moisture (12%) where possible. Grain yield data from WTARC are unadjusted. Due to significant location x treatment interaction effects, analyses of variance were carried out separately for each location using the MIXED procedure of SAS. PARTICIPANTS: Dr. Olga Walsh, Assistant Professor, Western Triangle Agricultural Research Center; Dr. Heather Mason, Assistant Professor, Northwestern Agricultural Research Center; Dr. Chengci Chen, Associate Professor, Central Agricultural Research Center. TARGET AUDIENCES: The results have been disseminated to end-users through field tours at the research centers, through written reports submitted to the Montana Fertilizer Advisory Committee, at research center Advisory Committee meetings, and through personal contact at the research centers. Target audiences include Montana crop producers who apply the knowledge generated to their farming operations. Results were distributed through popular publications such as Fertilizer Facts for use by agricultural producers. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
At NWARC, grain yield was significantly affected by N source, with higher yields in plots receiving the 50:50 ESN: urea blend (3,600 lb/ac) compared to urea alone. Higher than usual rainfall in early spring, coupled with soil type (Creston sandy loam), may have contributed to the increased effectiveness of the blend at this site; however, protein content was not affected by N source. Grain yield improved by 46% with an N application of 100 lb N/ac, but no further yield gains were observed as N fertilizer concentrations increased. Protein content, however, increased significantly with applications of N up to 300 lb N/ac. Topdressing of 40 lb N/ac at jointing resulted in a yield increase of 275 lb/ac and a 0.8% protein increase; however a significant N rate x top-dress interaction effect was observed. The interaction indicates that the top-dress treatment was most effective at increasing grain yield at lower rates of applied N, and that top-dressing did not have a significant effect on yield when soil N was adequate (200 lb applied N/ac). At WARC, grain yield was significantly affected by N source, but in this case, the highest yields were achieved with urea (2,823 lb/ac), while grain yield in plots fertilized with ESN and the 50:50 ESN: urea blend were similar. Protein content was not affected by N source. Grain yield and protein improved with increasing N fertilizer concentration up to 100 lb N/ac. Topdressing with 40 lb N/ac at the jointing stage increased grain yield by 252 lb/ac and increased protein from 14.4 to 15.3%. At WTARC, grain yield and protein content averaged 2,253 lb/ac and 9.4%, respectively. Grain yield was not affected by N source, where protein content was higher under ESN fertilizer than urea. This suggests that the ESN may have been able to provide N to the crop later into the season than the urea, providing a protein boost to the harvested grain. Grain yield and protein improved with higher N application rates, up to 50 lb N/ac for yield and up to 150 lb N/ac for protein. Topdressing at 40 lb N/ac did not increase yield or protein at this location. From this preliminary data, ESN and ESN: urea fertilizer blends do not result in consistent grain yield gains or increases in wheat protein concentration compared to urea alone. Thus, there appears to be little advantage to using ESN or a ESN: urea blend on spring wheat, especially given its high cost ($100/ton greater than for urea). At all locations, N fertilizer applications of 100 lb N/ac increased grain yield and protein, but little gains in either variable were observed with higher N concentrations. Topdressing at 40 lb N/ac at jointing (Feekes 5) resulted in 8%-10% increases in grain yield and 6%-7% increases in protein concentration at NWARC and WARC, indicating that top-dressing is a viable management practice in spring wheat production. The absence of any top-dressing effect at WTARC could be explained by the unusually wet and cool growing year at that location.
Publications
- Westcott, M., D. Wichman, and R. Hybner. 2011. Evaluation of Nitrate Potential in Hay from Five Cereal Forage Species. Fertilizer Facts #57, Montana State University.
- Chen, C., H. Guoqiang, H. Huaqing, and M. Westcott. 2011. Yield, Protein, and Remobilization of Water Soluble Carbohydrate and Nitrogen of Three Spring Wheat Cultivars as Influenced by Nitrogen Input, Agron. J., vol. 103,3:786-795.
- Chen, C., J. Eckhoff, K. Kephart, P. Lamb, H. Mason, K. McVay, J. Miller, P. Miller, M. Westcott. 2011. Variety adaptability and yield stability analysis for a statewide variety testing study in Montana. Northern American Pulse Improvement Association Biennial Meeting. 3-4 November, 2011. San Juan, Puerto Rico.
- Westcott, M., and K. Kephart. 2011. Response of Corn to Nitrogen Fertilizer Rate and Top-Dressing. Fertilizer Facts #56, Montana State University.
|
Progress 01/01/10 to 12/31/10
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Corn was planted with nitrogen rates of 0, 60, 120, 180, and 240 lb N/ac as treatments applied to double plots in a randomized, complete block design with four replications at two locations, the Western (WARC) and Southern (SARC) Agricultural Research Centers. At the V10 growth stage, SPAD chlorophyll meter readings were taken from the most recently fully expanded leaf of thirty randomly selected plants in each double-plot. These leaves were harvested for foliar N determination. An additional 60 lb N/ac was then applied to half of each double-plot. The plots were harvested for grain yield determination at full maturity at the SARC site, while they were harvested for biomass yield at the WARC site due to a cool growing season. The SARC site was unresponsive to N inputs, with no significant N effects on SPAD, yield or any grain quality parameters, including protein. This was likely due to high levels of N carryover from previous cropping. The WARC site was highly responsive to N inputs, with SPAD readings at V10 ranging from 26 to over 41 as N rates increased. There was a strong whole-plant yield response to both initial N rate as well as top dressed N, with yields at just under 4 T/ac with no applied N, and greater than 7T/ac at the higher N rates. The response to top dressed N averaged just over 1 T/ac across the initial N rates. Quadratic regression of biomass yield against N rate gave response curves of y = 6796 + 55.2 x - 0.11 x2, R2=0.988** where y = biomass yield, lb.ac, and x = initial N fertilization rate, for the plots that were not top dressed, and y = 9252 + 70.0 x - 0.20 x2, R2 = 0.993** where plots received the additional 60 lbs N/ac as topdressing. Across initial N rates, topdressing of 60 lb N/ac at V10 resulted in an average dry matter yield increase of 2295 lb/ac. Assuming a grain component of silage at 50% and 56 lb/bu on a 15% moisture basis, this yield increase is equivalent to 24 bu/ac. With current corn prices at $6.15/bu (Dec. 30, 2010), the 60 lb N/ac topdressing increased crop value by roughly $148/ac. This is a rough estimate, and corn prices are currently high. If we make a low-ball estimate, assuming corn prices at half the current level and corn content of silage at 40%, the increase in yield is valued at $59/ac. Silage is not a widely-traded commodity, but this analysis gives an example of how economic value can be calculated for on-farm use. And it confirms that top dressing N at V10 can be of significant economic benefit. When SPAD values were expressed as a percentage of the maximum level for each site-year over two locations and three years, we did not see confirmation of 93 to 95% as being the critical level of relative SPAD. At SARC in 2009 we did not see meaningful yield responses to topdressing when relative SPAD was greater than 84.2%, and at WARC, we saw meaningful SPAD responses when relative SPAD was 97.3% in 2010, and as high as 98.6% in 2009. This wide variability is not strongly supportive of the use of SPAD readings as a means to predict meaningful corn response to top dressed N. PARTICIPANTS: Collaborators include Dr. Ken Kephart, Professor and Superintendent, Southern Agricultural Research Center; Dr. Heather Mason, Assistant Professor, Northwestern Agricultural Research Center; Dr. Olga Walsh, Assistant Professor, Western Triangle Agricultural Research Center; and Dr. Chengci Chen, Associate Professor, Central Agricultural Research Center. TARGET AUDIENCES: The results have been disseminated to end-users through field tours at the research centers, through written reports submitted to the Montana Fertilizer Advisory Committee, at research center Advisory Committee meetings, and through personal contact at the research centers. Results from the corn study at SARC were widely distributed electronically. Target audience includes Montana crop producers who apply the knowledge generated to their farming operations. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
The results have been disseminated to end-users through field tours at the research centers, through written reports submitted to the Montana Fertilizer Advisory Committee, at research center Advisory Committee meetings, and through personal contact at the research centers. Results from the corn study at SARC were widely distributed electronically. Collaborators include Dr. Ken Kephart, Professor and Superintendent, Southern Agricultural Research Center; Dr. Heather Mason, Assistant Professor, Northwestern Agricultural Research Center; Dr. Olga Walsh, Assistant Professor, Western Triangle Agricultural Research Center; and Dr. Chengci Chen, Associate Professor, Central Agricultural Research Center. Target audience includes Montana crop producers who apply the knowledge generated to their farming operations. The project has been modified through the project review process.
Publications
- Westcott, M., K. Kephart. 2010. Nitrogen Fertilization of Corn. Report to the MT Fertilizer Advisory Committee.
- Mason, H., M. Westcott. 2010. Spring barley-winter wheat relay cropping for forage production in western Montana. Report to the MT Fertilizer Advisory Committee.
- Walsh, O. M. Westcott, J. Whitmus, and C. Chen. 2010. Improving Nitrogen Use Efficiency in Winter Wheat Using Sensor-Based Technologies and Split Nitrogen Application. Report to the MT Fertilizer Advisory Committee.
|
Progress 01/01/09 to 12/31/09
Outputs
OUTPUTS: The results have been disseminated to end-users through field tours at the research centers, through written reports submitted to the Montana Fertilizer Advisory Committee, at research center Advisory Committee meeting, and through personal contact at the research centers. Results from the corn study at SARC were distributed electronically widely. PARTICIPANTS: Collaborators include Dr. Ken Kephart, Professor and Superintendent, Southern Agricutlrutral Research Center, and r' Chengci Chen, Associate Professor, CenteralAgricultural Research Center. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audience includes Montana crop producers who apply the knowledge generated to their farming operations. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Project has been modified through the project review process.
Impacts
Corn was planted with nitrogen rates of 0, 60, 120, 180, and 240 lb N/ac as treatments applied to double plots in a randomized, complete block design with four replications at two locations, the Western (WARC) and Southern (SARC) Agricultural Research Cetners. At the V10 growth stage, SPAD chlorophyll meter reading were taken from the most recently fully expanded leaf of thirty randomly selected plants in each double-plot. These leaves were harvested for foliar N determination. An additional 60 lb N/ac was then applied to half of each double-plot. There was a good response to initial N rate found in V10 SPAD levels at both locations. The range was similar at the locations, varying from about 26 at the lowest N fertility up to 37 at SARC and 40 at WARC. These levels are taken to reflect the N status at the time of topdressing application. Yields at both locations were strongly responsive to the initial N application rates. At SARC, the initial N application alone raised yields by roughly 80 bu/acre, from about 95 bu/acre with no added N up to 175 bu/acre with 180 lbs/ac of initial N. A similar response was found at WARC, with initial N applications increasing yields by about 80 bu/acre, though this response was elicited across the entire range of initial N rates. Yields were also responsive to the topdressed N at both locations, with the strongest responses occurring where the initial N rate was low. At WARC (figure3), the topdressing of 60 lb N/ac doubled yield where no initial N was applied, from 55 bu/acre up to 110 bu/acre. At SARC, the response to topdressed N wasn't as profound, but it was significant. At both locations the response to topdressed N declined as initial N rate increased. Assuming a crop value on of $3.30/bu, the increase in crop value due to top dressing was as high as $180/ac at WARC, and even at SARC it was $100/ac or better at the lower rates of initial N. Assuming a cost of application (material + application) of $40/acre for the 60 lb N/acre topdressing, the additional N was profitable where intital N rates were less than optimum for yield. What this shows is how SPAD readings at V!0 could be used to make decisions as to the potential profitability of topdressing additional N at that growth stage. One of the drawbacks to this approach is that the optimum SPAD level at each location differed. At WARC, we found profitable responses to topdressing with SPAD levels as high as 38, but at SARC, topdressing was no longer profitable when SPAD levels reached 33.
Publications
- Stougaard, B., B. Grey, C. Jones, L. Talbert, and M. Westcott. 2009. Foliar Applications of Copper for Protein Management in Spring Wheat. Report to the MT Fertilizer Advisory Committee.
- Westcott, M., K. Kephart. 2009. Nitrogen Fertilization of Corn. Report to the MT Fertilizer Advisory Committee.
- Jackson, G. G. Carlson, M. Westcott, J. Whitmus. 2009 Improving Nitrogen Use Efficiency in Spring Wheat Using Sensing Technology and Split Applications of Nitrogen. Report to the MT Fertilizer Advisory Committee
|
Progress 01/01/08 to 12/31/08
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Research objectives and findings were related to agricultural producers and representatives from industry and agencies throught field demonstration tours and presentations at producer meetings. PARTICIPANTS: Dr. Ken Kephart is a collaborator on this project. He is Superintendent of the Southern Agricultural Research Center and Associate Professor of Agronomy. The Montana Fertilizer Advisory Committee reviewed the project proposal and preliminary results and is providing funding in support of this project. TARGET AUDIENCES: Corn producers in Montana. Fertilizer dealers in corn-groweing areas of th estate. County extension agents in corn-producing areas of the state. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.
Impacts
The objectives were to determine the nitrogen rate effects on corn grain yields at the Southern and Western Agricultural Research Centers, located in the Yellowstone and Bitterroot Valleys, where klittle work on corn N fertility has been performed in the past. And additional objective was to determine the utility of chlorophyll meter readings on corn leaves at the V10 growth stage in predicting the need for additional fertilizer N. Variable rates of N fertilizer were applied to plots of corn in replicated trials. At the V10 growth stage, SPAD chlorophyll meter readings were taken from the most recently fully expanded leaf on plants in each plot. These leaves were harvested for foliar N determination (total N). After the readings were taken, an additional 60 lb N/ac was applied to half of each plot. Leaf SPAD readings at V10 were regressed against foliar N levels sampled at the same growth stage. There was a good relationship between SPAD chlorophyll readings and total leaf N at the V10 stage at both locations. The R-square value was higher at the WARC location, but the regression equations were similar enough that we combined them into a single regression. The resultant R-square value is 0.58, indicating that SPAD readings correlate well with leaf N status at time of sampling. THese preliminary results indicate the utility of SPAD chlorophyll readings in managing mid-season N applications in the primary corn-growing areas of Montana.
Publications
- Chen, C., Karnes Neill, Dave Wichman, and Malvern Westcott. 2008. Hard Red Spring Wheat Response to Row Spacing, Seeding Rate, and Nitrogen. Agron. J. 2008 1296-1302.
|
Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Preliminary results from the studies reported here have been presented at Field Days and producer meetings in western and southcentral Montana. THe combined audience is in the hundreds (>400).
PARTICIPANTS: Dr. Ken Kephart is Superintendent of the Southern Ag Research Center in Huntley MT, and Associate Prodessor of Agronomy.
TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audience includes agricutlural producers in western and shouthcentral MT who are considering introduction of soybean into their cropping systems.
Impacts
A two-year trial was initiated at two locations in Montana: the Southern (SARC) and Western (WARC) Agricultural Research Centers. In 2005, 80' x 15' blocks of hard red spring wheat and soybeans were grown under irrigation in a randomized complete block design with four replications. These were managed with normal practices. In 2006, these blocks were planted to one hard red spring wheat variety and one malt-barley variety as sub-plots. Within these subplots, sub-subplots of N fertilizer rates (0, 40, 80, or 120 lbs N/ac) were applied to plots 10' x 15'. At WARC, these plots were further divided so that one-half of each will receive an additional 20 lbs N/ac at anthesis and the other half had no further amendment. Plots were assessed for N uptake, yield, and grain protein. Nitrogen benefits of soybeans were determined from comparison of N response functions to those found in the small grain-small grain rotation. The rotational sequence was repeated in 2006 - 2007 at
SARC. In 2006, soybean rotational benefits to small grains was evident at both locations. At WARC, this was evidenced in wheat protein responses equivalent to fertilizer inputs of about 40 lb N/ac. At SARC, this was strongly evidenced in yield responses of both wheat and barley equivalent to a fertilizer input of 80 lb N/ac. An added benefit at SARC was that yield levels reached peak values following soybean that were 16 bu/ac greater that the highest levels attainable following wheat. At SARC in 2007, excessive rainfall following irrigation likely resulted in leaching and/or run off of the applied nitrogen, denitrification of nitrate in the soil profile and hypoxia (oxygen deficiency to root and crown tissue) damage to the wheat and barley which limited the ability of these crops to respond to either rotation management or the application of supplemental nitrogen. Crop management, particularly management decisions subsequently influenced by environmental factors that limit crop
growth potential apparently can minimize these benefits to the rotation on a short term basis. In addition to being an alternative crop with potential for significant contributions of protein for livestock feeds, soybean offer significant rotational benefits to following small grain crops measurable in terms of N fertilizer inputs. With rising fertilizer costs, soybean production offers an opportunity for cost savings in irrigated areas of the where the crop is adapted.
Publications
- Westcott, M. P., D. Cash, J. Jacobsen, G. Carlson, L. Welty. 2007. Sap Analysis for Diagnosis of Nitrate Accumulation in Cereal Forages. Montana State University Ext. Service. Fertilizer. Facts no. 46.
|
Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06
Outputs
A two-year trial was initiated at two locations in Montana: the Southern (SARC) and Western (WARC) Agricultural Research Centers. In 2005, 80' x 15' blocks of hard red spring wheat and soybeans were grown under irrigation in a randomized complete block design with four replications. These were managed with normal practices. In 2006, these blocks were planted to one hard red spring wheat variety and one malt-barley variety as sub-plots. Within these subplots, sub-subplots of N fertilizer rates (0, 40, 80, or 120 lbs N/ac) were applied to plots 10' x 15'. At WARC, these plots were further divided so that one-half of each will receive an additional 20 lbs N/ac at anthesis and the other half had no further amendment. Plots were assessed for N uptake, yield, and grain protein. Nitrogen benefits of soybeans were determined from comparison of N response functions to those found in the small grain-small grain rotation. Protein levels in both grain crops responded well to
initial N rate and the topdressed N at WARC, and were significantly higher following soybean as compared to wheat. It required forty pounds more of nitrogen fertilization to reach a similar grain protein level in either small grain crop following wheat as compared to soybean. Grain protein at SARwas higher in wheat as compared to barley and responded positively to increasing N fertilizer inputs, but grain protein levels for either small grain species did not respond to previous crop. This is in contrast to the WARC site where grain protein responded quite well to the previous soybean crop. The explanation for this is that the effect of soybean as a previous crop was expressed in very strong yield response. Soybean as a previous crop resulted in 22 bu/ac greater grain yield for both crops as compared to wheat as a previous crop. The site exhibited a strong yield response to N fertilizer inputs, but there was a marked difference in that response depending on previous crop. Following
soybean, yields peaked at a level of just over 100 bu/ac with a fertilizer input of 80 lb N/ac. Following wheat, it required 120 lbs N/ac to reach peak yields of 87 bu/ac. This yield level following wheat was achieved with an input of only 40 lb N/ac following soybean. So there are two key points here: 1) achieving an 86 bu/ac yield level required 80 lb N/ac less following soybean as compared to wheat, and 2) grain yield levels following soybean reached a peak yield level at least 16 bu/ac greater than the highest yield level following wheat and with less fertilizer input. Soybeans offer significant rotational benefits to small grains in Montana. At WARC, this was evidenced in wheat protein responses equivalent to fertilizer inputs of about 40 lb N/ac. At SARC, this was strongly evidenced in yield responses of both wheat and barley equivalent to a fertilizer input of 80 lb N/ac. An added benefit at SARC was that yield levels reached peak values following soybean that were 16 bu/ac
greater that the highest levels attainable following wheat.
Impacts
In addition to being an alternative crop with potential for significant contributions of protein for livestock feeds, soybeans offer significant rotational benefits to succeeding small grain crops measurable in terms of N fertilizer inputs. With rising fertilizer costs, soybeans offer an opportunity for cost savings in irrigated areas of Montana the where the crop is adapted.
Publications
- Callan, N. W., Johnson, D. L., Westcott, M. P., and Welty, L. E. 2007. Herb and oil composition of dill (Anethum graveolens L.): effects of crop maturity and plant density. Industrial Crops and Products (in press).
- Westcott, M.P., K.D. Kephart. 2006. Nitrogen Benefits In Soybean-Small Grains Rotations. Report to the Fertilizer Advisory Committee. Montana Agricultural Experiment Station, Montana State University.
|
Progress 01/01/05 to 12/31/05
Outputs
In replicated field trials, hard red spring wheat was grown at variable rates of preplant nitrogen fertilization. At heading, nitrogen was topdressed at rates of 0, 20 or 40 lb N/acre to track its uptake by the crop and assess its effect on grain yield and protein levels. Plant N uptake was measured weekly for the eight week period of grain fill from heading to crop maturity. We found that the topdressed N increased crop N uptake proportionately to application rates for a three week period following application. Where initial fertilization rates were moderate, apparent N use efficiency approached 100% for the topdressed N. The topdressed N was effective in delaying the decline in flag leaf N levels which occurred very soon after heading in the treatments receiving no topdressed N. Topdressed N did not significantly affect grain yields but increased grain protein levels from 13.8% to 15.3% as a mean across all initial N rates. Results graphically demonstrate how N
topdressed at heading is more efficient than preplant N in increasing crop N status during the period of grain fill. In another study, we sought to develop a nitrate stability index for assessing the potential for different cereal species and varieties to accumulate nitrate when grown for forage. This information will help producers avoid species or varieties that have a propensity for toxic nitrate accumulation under high-nitrate environments and in making nitrogen fertilization decisions. Two varieites each of barley (Hordeum vulgare), oats (Avena sativa), spring wheat (Triticum aestivum), tricicale (Xtriticosecale Wittmack) and spelt (Triticum spelta) were included in this trial. They were fertilized with 0, 60, or 120 lb N/ac in a randomized, complete block design with N rates as main plots and species/variety selections as subplots. They were sampled at heading, anthesis, and soft dough, assayed for yield and analyzed for nitrate levels in whole plant tissue. Forage nitrate
levels were increased by applied N rate in all ten cereal forage selections . The two oat varieties were especially responsive, with nitrate levels well over 10,000 ppm (1.0 %) with the highest level of N application. Crop growth stage also significantly affected forage nitrate level, with levels dropping as the crop matured past heading. Even just delaying harvest from heading to anthesis had a significant effect where nitrate levels were quite high. Nitrate levels in most of the selections declined to safe feeding levels by soft dough. The notable exceptions were the two oat selections, where nitrate levels were still too high to feed without mixing even at this late date. These findings are consistent with the previous work completed on this study. Oat varieties are consistently higher than other species, particularly where conditions are conducive to the accumulation of high nitrate levels. Haybet barley does not accumulate as much nitrate as Westford barley under high-nitrate
conditions.
Impacts
Enhancing grain protein in hard red spring wheat with N topdressed at heading is more efficient in terms of fertilizer N use than acheiving similar results with preplant N applications that are in excess of what is needed for optimum yield. This results in greater profitability for small grain producers due to more efficient utilization of fertilizer inputs and increased prices received for higher protein levels harvested grain. It also benefits the environment through greater crop use efficiency of N fertilizer inputs. Crop selection for producers of cereal crops grown for forage is important in avoiding hays that accumulate levels of nitrate that are potentially toxic to livestock. Livestock producers can lessen the chances for nitrate poisoning by growing species other than oats for cereal hay production.
Publications
- Brown, Brad, Mal Westcott, Neil Christensen, and Jeff Stark. 2005. Nitrogen management for hard wheat proteinenhancement. Pacific Northwest Extension Publication PNW578. Univ. Idaho, Oregon St. Univ. and Washington St. Univ.
|
Progress 01/01/04 to 12/31/04
Outputs
Field trials were conducted to investigate the interaction between nitrogen and sulfur fertilization in production of barley as a forage crop and the incidence of forage nitrate accumulation at two sites in western Montana. Work was done at the WARC and NWARC research centers where responses to S have been observed previously. Three rates of N (0, 60, or 120 lbs N/ac as ammonium nitrate) and two of S (0 or 20 lbs S/ac as gypsum) were combined into 6 factorial treatments and applied to Haybet barley in a randomized complete block design at the Western (WARC) and Northwestern (NWARC) Agricultural Research Centers. Plots were harvested for biomass at anthesis and assayed for dry matter production and nitrate, protein and total S concentrations. No responses were detected to either N or S additions at NWARC. Yields were uniformly high, averaging 3.5 T/ac, as were nitrate levels at about 0.6% nitrate in the harvested hay samples (unsafe for feeding). Forage total N and
total S levels were also uniformly high and unaffected by fertilizer applications. The site obviously had a high level of native fertility, and the N:S ratio of 11 in harvested hay indicates that S was adequate. At WARC, forage yields responded well to additions of N, increasing from 1.5 T/ac to over 2.5 with incremental additions. Sulfur additions had no effect on yield. Both N and S additions significantly affected nitrate levels in barley forage at WARC. Increasing nitrogen rates incrementally increased forage nitrate levels, reaching over 8000 ppm (0.8%) with the highest rate of N application. This level is considered high risk for feeding to livestock. Sulfur applications were very effective in minimizing the effect of N rate on nitrate accumulation in forage. Averaged across N treatments, the addition of 20 lbs S/ac effectively resulted in nitrate levels that were half the levels found without application of S. At the highest rate of N application, the affect was statistically
significant, reducing nitrate levels to 0.3%. The difference between this value and that found at the highest N rate without S application (0.8%) is enough to significantly affect the safety for feeding the forage to livestock and the degree to which it is recommended it be mixed with other low-nitrate feeds. At WARC, N:S ratios were as high as 18.5 at the highest N application rate with no addition of S, while S applications were effective in reducing the N:S ratios to 12 or below in all cases. It is postulated that one mechanism for nitrate accumulation in forages is a deficiency of S in relation to the N supply in the plant (N:S ratios of 14 or higher), leading to feedback inhibition of nitrate reduction These findings are consistent with what we found the first year of this study. High application rates of N fertilizer to barley grown for forage can raise nitrate levels in the harvested hay to levels unsafe for feeding to livestock. Where N:S ratios in the forage exceed about
14:1, this effect can be lessened with S fertilization, which can reduce the level of nitrate accumulation in forage fertilized with N.
Impacts
Improved fertility management will allow cereal forage producers to produce hay crops with lower potential for accumulation of toxic level of nitrate. This will lower risls for losses of livestock or the necessitiy of mixing hays with other feeds with lower nitrate, both outcomes which reduce profits.
Publications
- Chengci, C., M. Westcott, K. Neill, D. Wichman, and M. Knox. 2004. Row Configuration and Nitrogen Application for Barley-Pea Intercropping in Montana. Agron. J. 96:1730-1738.
|
Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03
Outputs
Intercropping barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) with Austrian winter pea (Pisum sativum ssp. arvense L. Poir) may increase the use efficiencies of growth resources and reduce fertilizer nitrogen (N) requirements. The objective of this study was to investigate 1) row configuration and 2) fertilizer N effects on yield, protein content, and the land equivalent ratio (LER) of barley-pea intercropping systems. Two three-year barley-pea intercropping studies were conducted at the Central and Western Agricultural Research Centers (CARC and WARC) of Montana State University from 2000 to 2002 with three row configurations (4x4, 2x2, and mixed) and three N application treatments (0, 67, and 134 kgN ha-1). Barley biomass production increased 26 to 45%, while pea biomass production decreased 34 to 46% with the row configuration changing from 4x4 to mixed (increased interspecies mixture). The LER was greater than 1.0 (ranging from 1.03 to 1.22) for all the barley-pea intercropping row
configurations in this study indicating a production advantage of intercropping. Barley was found to be a more competitive component compared with pea (Lb = 0.76 to 0.82, Lp = 0.29 to 0.42). Separated row arrangements are advantageous where the desired outcome is a greater pea component in the harvested forage, but the mixed arrangement tended to have a greater total biomass yield and LER. Fertilizer N increased total biomass yield and protein level in barley-pea intercrops, but high N rates could result in potentially toxic levels of nitrate in the forage.
Impacts
Intercropping barley and pea increased land equivalent ratio. LER exceeded 1.0 in this study indicates advantageous of intercropping for forage production. Barley is a more competitive component than pea in barley-pea intercropping systems. Separated row arrangements are advantageous where the desired outcome is a greater pea component in the harvested forage, but the mixed arrangement had a tendency to produce greater total biomass yield and have a higher LER. Fertilizer nitrogen is effective in increasing total biomass yields and protein levels in barley-pea intercrops, but high N rates may result in potentially toxic levels of nitrate in the forage. It is expected that this information will enable forage producers to more efficiently manage annual forages for desired outcomes of yield and quality through manipulation of intercropping patterns and fertilization.
Publications
- Westcott, M., C. Chen, and D. Johnson. 2003. Progress report to the Fertilizer Advisory Committee, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT.
- Westcott, M.P. and N.W. Callan. 2003. Peppermint nutrient deficiency symptoms. Proc. Western Nutrient Management Conference, 5:61-62. Salt Lake City, March 6-7.
- B. Brown, J.M. Hart, M.P. Westcott, N.W. Christensen. The critical role of nutrient manageemnt in mint production. 2003. Better Crops. 37(1):9-11.
|
Progress 10/01/97 to 09/30/02
Outputs
This project has accomplished the following since 1997: Developed a sap nitrate analysis for determining nitrate levels in cereal hay; established correlation of various plant reflectance indices with crop N status; determined benefits of late-season N fertilization on grain protein in hard red spring wheat; developed in-season diagnostic criteria for crop N status in HRS wheat; established a set of visual nutrient deficiency symptoms in peppermint; determined the correlation of SPAD meter readings with stem nitrate levels in peppermint; determined the relationship between leaf SPAD readings and flag leaf N level in HRS; and determined N and S fertilization effects on yield, protein, and nitrate levels in cereal foragesd
Impacts
The project is contributing to Montana agriculture by addressing practical concerns of production agriculture. The focus is on late-season N for protein enhancement in hard red spring wheat and fertility management for cereal forages.
Publications
- Westcott, M., J. Eckhoff, R. Engel, J. Jacobsen, G. Jackson, and B. Stougaard. 1997. Residual soil nitrate responses to early and late-season nitrogen applications in irrigated spring wheat. Fertilizer Facts No. 13. Agric. Exp. Station/Ext. Serv., Montana State University Westcott, M., J. Eckhoff, R. Engel, J. Jacobsen, G. Jackson, and B. Stougaard. 1998. Economic value of late-season nitrogen application to irrigated spring wheat. Fertilizer Facts No. 20. Agric. Exp. Station/Ext. Serv., Montana State University
- Westcott, M. 1998. How to Get Higher Spring Wheat Protein More Efficiently. MontGuide - MT9806 (AG).
- Westcott, M., J. Eckhoff, R. Engel, J. Jacobsen, G. Jackson, and B. Stougaard. 1997. Grain yield and protein responses to late-season nitrogen in irrigated spring wheat. Fertilizer Facts No. 11. Agric. Exp. Station/Ext. Serv., Montana State University
- Westcott, M., J. Eckhoff, R. Engel, J. Jacobsen, G. Jackson, and B. Stougaard. 1997. Flag leaf diagnosis of grain protein response to late-season N application in irrigated spring wheat. Fertilizer Facts No. 12. Agric. Exp. Station/Ext. Serv., Montana State University
- Westcott, M., J. Eckhoff, R. Engel, J. Jacobsen, G. Jackson, and B. Stougaard. 1997. Residual soil nitrate responses to early and late-season nitrogen applications in irrigated spring wheat. Fertilizer Facts No. 13. Agric. Exp. Station/Ext. Serv., Montana State University
- Westcott, M., D. Johnson. 2002. Progress report to the Fertilizer Advisory Committee, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT.
- Welty, L.E., L.S. Prestbye, M.P. Westcott, M.L. Knox. 1999. Double cutting mersitem Black Mitcham peppermint. J. Essential Oil Res. 11:89-96.
- Westcott, M.P. 2000. Opportunities for soil nutrient cycling in Montana cropping systems In Farming and Ranching for Profit, Stewardship, and Community; SARE 2000 Conference Proceedings. (http://wsare.usu.edu/sare2000/061.htm)
- Westcott, M.P., S.D. Cash, J.S. Jacobsen, G.R. Carlson, and L.E. Welty. 1998. Sap diagnosis of nitrate accumulation in cereal forages. Commun. Soil Sci. Plant Anal. 29 (9&10): 1355-1363. M.P. Westcott, S.D. Cash, J.S. Jacobsen, G.R. Carlson, and L.E. Welty.1998. Sap analysis for sensing nitrate-N accumulation in cereal forages. Proceedings of the Great Plains Soil Fertility Conference (A.J. Schlegel ed.) 7:128-133. Denver, CO March 2-4, 1998.
- Westcott, M., J. Eckhoff. R. Engel, J. Jacobsen, G. Jackson, and B. Stougaard. 1997. Rapid diagnosis of grain protein response to late-season nitrogen in irrigated spring wheat. p. 77-81 In T.A. Tindall and D. Westermann (ed.) Proc. West. Nutr. Manage. Conf. vol 2, Salt Lake City, UT. 6 - 7 Mar. 1997. Univ. Idaho, Moscow, ID.
- Westcott, M., J. Eckhoff, R. Engel, J. Jacobsen, G. Jackson, and B. Stougaard. 1997. Flag leaf diagnosis of grain protein response to late-season N application in irrigated spring wheat. Fertilizer Facts No. 12. Agric. Exp. Station/Ext. Serv., Montana State University
- Westcott, M., J. Eckhoff, R. Engel, J. Jacobsen, G. Jackson, and B. Stougaard. 1998. Economic value of late-season nitrogen application to irrigated spring wheat. Fertilizer Facts No. 20. Agric. Exp. Station/Ext. Serv., Montana State University
- Westcott, M. 1998. How to Get Higher Spring Wheat Protein More Efficiently. MontGuide - MT9806 (AG).
- Westcott, M., J. Eckhoff, R. Engel, J. Jacobsen, G. Jackson, and B. Stougaard. 1997. Grain yield and protein responses to late-season nitrogen in irrigated spring wheat. Fertilizer Facts No. 11. Agric. Exp. Station/Ext. Serv., Montana State University
|
Progress 01/01/01 to 12/31/01
Outputs
Remote sensing may be more practical than ground sampling approaches such as flag leaf N (FLN) analysis for identifying fields or areas in fields where a wheat crop will be responsive to late-season N application for grain protein enhancement. Our objective was to determine the relationship between crop spectral reflectance derived from digital color infrared (CIR) aerial imagery and FLN in irrigated wheat, with application to late season N management. Initial work in replicated field trials on irrigated hard red spring wheat showed good correlation between grain protein response to late-season N and FLN levels at heading (R2= 0.73**) as well as between FLN and the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI, determined as NIR+red/NIR-red) derived from the aerial photography (r2 = 0.74**). Further work was conducted on a 25 ha wheat field under center-pivot irrigation where considerable in-field variation in canopy color was observed. The field was delineated into 23
separate sampling areas based on ranges of reflectance values. Grain protein varied from 12.2% to 15.5%. In areas that were adequately or over-irrigated, there was a positive relationship between grain protein and vegetative index (R2 = 0.62**), while the relationship was negative (R2=0.89**) in droughty areas. Spectral analysis of aerial photographs shows promise for determining crop N status in wheat.
Impacts
The price that growers receive for harvested hard red spring wheat is highly influenced by the grain protein level. Development of remote sensing of crop N status in hard red spring wheat will provide an inexpensive means for gathering information useful in decisions for midseason corrections in N fertility to improve final grain protein.
Publications
- Westcott, M., Long, D., Jacobsen, J. and Nielsen, G.. 2001. Midseason determination of crop N status in wheat using digital aerial photography. In Agronomy Abstracts. ASA, Madison, WI.
- Westcott, M.P and D.M. Wichman. 2001. Nitrogen and sulfur effects on yield and quality of cereal forages. Western Nutrient Management Conference. March 2001.
- Wichman, D.M., S.D. Cash, K.D. Kephart, M.L. Westcott, and R.M. Hybner. 2001 Winter Cereal Forages in the Northern Plains. Abstracts. West Soc. Crop Sci. Tucson AZ. June 11-12.
- Wichman, D.. 2001. Safflower and Canola. Chapters in Montana-Utah-Wyoming Weed Mngmnt Hndbk. S.A.Dewey, T.D. Whitson, A.J. Bussan and R. Sheley Editors.
- Wichman, D.M., L.E. Welty, L.M. Strang, J.W. Bergman, M.P. Westcott, G.F. Stallknecht, N.R. Riveland and R.L. Ditterline. 2001. Assessing the forage production potential of safflower in the northern Great Plains and Inter-Mountain regions. In, Proceedings, 5th International Safflower Conference. Williston, ND and Sidney, MT, USA. July 23-27, 2001. p. 269-273.
|
Progress 01/01/00 to 12/31/00
Outputs
Cereal forages are particularly prone to the accumulation of nitrate to toxic levels. Management techniques such as restricting N fertilization or harvesting at advanced maturity will compromise crop yield and/or quality. Fertility factors other than N and species selection may provide other management strategies for reducing the risk of high nitrate accumulation. Our objective was to investigate the interaction between N and S fertilization and species selection on cereal forage yield, protein, and nitrate levels. Three N rates (0, 60, or 120 lbs N/a), two S rates (0 or 20 lb S/ac), and five cereal species (barley, oats, spelt, triticale, and spring wheat) were established as treatments in factorial combination in a randomized, complete block design at two locations in Montana: The Western (WARC, irrigated) and Central (CARC, dryland) Agricultural Research Centers. Plots were assayed for whole plant yield, protein, and nitrate levels at anthesis at WARC, and for
nitrate at CARC. Nitrogen fertilization stimulated yield, protein, and nitrate accumulation across the range of application at WARC. For all species, the nitrate levels at the highest rate of N addition at this site were high enough to restrict feeding to no more than half the ration in order to avoid toxicity problems. Nitrate responses to N were similar at CARC. Analyzed across locations, species, and N rates, the addition of S significantly reduced nitrate levels by 25% in harvested forage. This may have been due to alleviating a feedback inhibition where S was limiting protein synthesis, although S did not affect protein levels. Species differed markedly in terms of nitrate accumulation, particularly at the WARC irrigated site where oats consistently accumulated more than twice the level of nitrate compared to barley. Sulfur fertilization and species selection are two management techniques for reducing the risk of nitrate accumulation in cereal forages.
Impacts
In the early 1980's, hay barley was planted to less than 13,000 acres in Montana. In 1999, Haybet barley alone was planted to over 80,000 acres. This underscores the increasing popularity of cereal forages in Montana production systems. The on-going studies to evaluate barley, oats, spelt and triticale for relative forage yield, quality, and nitrate management increases the knowledge available on cereal forages.
Publications
- Westcott, M.P. 2000. Opportunities for soil nutrient cycling in Montana cropping systems In Farming and Ranching for Profit, Stewardship, and Community; SARE 2000 Conference Proceedings. (http://wsare.usu.edu/sare2000/061.htm)
|
Progress 01/01/99 to 12/31/99
Outputs
Development of a quantitative, preharvest quicktest for NO3 levels in cereal forages would improve crop management options to avoid NO3 toxicity in livestock. Our objective was to determine if concentrations of NO3 in sap expressed from oat (Avena sativa) and barley (Hordeum vulgare) are correlated with those in dry tissue of simultaneously harvested hay, and to test the reliability of the Cardy portable NO3 meter for sap analysis in these species. Whole plant samples were gathered at heading and soft dough stages from plots of 'Otana' oats and 'Haybet barley fertilized with variable N rates at two environments in Montana in 1994 and 1995. Sap expressed from the lower internodes was analyzed for NO3 concentration with the Accumet ISE or Cardy portable nitrate meter. The remainder of each plot was harvested for hay, and further subsampled for dry matter NO3 analysis after drying. Each species fit a separate linear correlation of hay nitrate against sap nitrate across
site-years, with r values of 0.89 (oat) and 0.87 (barley). We propose a quantitative quicktest for NO3 levels in cereal forages using conditional predictions of dry matter NO3 based on observed values of sap NO3. Since sap NO3 readings with the Cardy portable nitrate meter were well correlated (r = 0.93) with Accumet ISE readings across critical ranges, quicktest procedures are practical.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- No publications reported this period
|
Progress 01/01/98 to 12/31/98
Outputs
Our objectives were to evaluate early-season N fertilization programs for peppermint in northwest Montana. Eleven N fertilization treatments including various combinations of early-season (April) application and simulated fertigation during the growing season were applied to peppermint in a replicated field experiment. This was the third year of a three-year study. Early-season N sources were anhydrous ammonia, urea, and ammonium nitrate. Total N rate in all treatments was 264 kg N/ha. Urea-ammonium nitrate (UAN) was the in-season source. Measurements included crop N status during the growing season, soil solution nitrate concentration at 1.2 m, and crop N uptake and oil yield response. The N applied in April, regardless of source, was poorly utilized by the crop in terms of uptake and oil yield response. This was likeoly due to leaching during unusually rainy periods in May and June, confirmed by soil solution nitrate concentrations at depth. Two previous year's work
showed that any of the sources of N tested can be effectively applied to peppermint prior to the onset of rapid crop growth. This early N can be just as effective as multiple applications made during the growing season. However, there is a potential for leaching with heavy rates of early season N. This is manifest as poor crop response to N fertilization and the potential for environmental damage with nitrate leaching. Since these risks occur as a result of conditions beyond grower control, it is best advised to avoid heavy applications of N early when they will be susceptible to losses.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Westcott, M.P., S.D. Cash, J.S. Jacobsen, G.R. Carlson, and L.E. Welty. 1998. Sap diagnosis of nitrate accumulation in cereal forages. Commun. Soil Sci. Plant Anal. 29(9&10), 1355-1363.
- Westcott, M.P., S.D. Cash, J.S. Jacobsen, G.R. Carlson, and L.E. Welty. 1998. Sap analysis for sensing nitrate-N accumulation in cereal forages. Proceedings of the Great Plains Soil Fertility Conference (A.J. Schlegel ed.) 7:128-133. Denver, CO March 2-4, 1998.
|
Progress 01/01/97 to 12/31/97
Outputs
Development of a quantitative, perharvest quicktest for NO3 levels in cereal forages would improve crop management options to avoid NO3 toxicity in livestock. Our objective was to determine if concentrations of NO3 in sap expressed from oat (Avena sativa) and barley (Hordeum valgare) are correlated with those in dry tissue of simultaneously harvested hay, and to test the reliability of the Cardy portable NO3 meter for sap analysis in these species. Whole plant samples were gathered at heading and soft dough stages from plots of 'Otana' oats and 'Haybet' barley fertilized with variable N rates at four environments in Montana. Sap expressed from the lower internodes was analyzed for NO3 concentration with the Accumet ISE or Cardy portable nitrate meter. The remainder of each plot was harvested for hay, and further subsampling for dry matter NO3 analysis after drying. Each species fit a separate linear correlation of hay nitrate against sap nitrate across site-years,
with r values of 0.89 (oat) and 0.87 (barley). We propose a quantitative quicktest for NO3 levels in cereal forages using conditional predictions of dry matter NO3 based on observed values of sap NO3. Since sap NO3 readings with the Cardy portable nitrate meter were well correlated (r = 0.93) with Accumet ISE readings across critical ranges, quicktest procedures are practical.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- WESTCOTT,M.P., CASH,S.D., JACOBSEN,J.S., CARLSON,G.R., and WELTY,L.E. Sap diagnosis of nitrate accumulation in cereal forages. Commun. Soil Sci. Plant Anal. 29(7&8): in press.
- WELTY,L.E., PRESTBYE,L.S. WESTCOTT,M.P., and KNOX,M.L. 1998. Double cutting mersitem Black Mitcham peppermint. J. Essential Oil Res. In
- WESTCOTT,J.P., ECKHOFF,J., ENGEL,R., JACOBSEN,J., JACKSON,G., and STOUGAARD,R. 1997. Rapid diagnosis of grain protein response to late-season nitrogen in irrigated spring wheat. p. 77-81. In T.A. Tindall and D. Westermann (ed.) Proc. West. Nutr. Manage. Conf. vol 2, Salt Lake City, UT. 6-7 Mar. 1997. Univ. Idaho, Moscow, ID.
- WESTCOTT,M.P., ECKHOFF,J., ENGEL,R., JACOBSEN,J., JACKSON,G., and STOUGAARD,R. 1997. Grain yield and protein responses to late-season nitrogen in irrigated spring wheat. Fertilizer Facts No. 11. Agric. Exp. Station/Ext. Serv., Montana State University.
- WESTCOTT,M.P., ECKHOFF,J., ENGEL,R., JACOBSEN,J., JACKSON,G., and STOUGAARD,R. 1997. Flag leaf diagnosis of grain protein response to late-season N application in irrigated spring wheat. Fertilizer Facts No. 12. Agric. Exp. Station/Ext. Serv., Montana State University.
- WESTCOTT,M.P., ECKHOFF,J., ENGEL,R., JACOBSEN,J., JACKSON,G., and STOUGAARD,R. 1997. Residual soil nitrate responses to early and late-season nitrogen applications in irrigated spring wheat. Fertilizer Facts No. 13. Agric. Exp. Station/Ext. Serv., Montana
|
Progress 01/01/96 to 12/30/96
Outputs
Peppermint oil producers in Montana rely on frequent applications of liquid N fertilizer solutions through sprinkler irrigation systems (fertigation) during the growing season to meet the N needs of the crop. There is a desire to develop N management systems that utilize less costly forms ofN fertilizer and that require less management input. We sought to determine the effectiveness of early-season applications of urea (dry formulation) or anhydrous ammonia in comparison to fertigated urea-ammonium nitrate(UAN) for peppermint oil production. A total rate of 270 kg N/ha was applied as 1) fertigated UAN in three applications of 90 kg N/ha beginning in late June, or as 2) 90, 180, or 270 kg N/ha as urea or anhydrous ammonia applied in April with the remainder of the 270 kg N/ha rate applied as fertigated UAN. These treatments were applied in a replicated field trial on an established stand of peppermint, a perennial crop. The application of anhydrous ammonia caused
mechanical damage to the crop in the row of the shank. Chemical damage was also apparent in proportion to the rate of anhydrous ammonia application. Urea caused plant dieback at rates of application in excess of 90 kg N/ha. The crop was observed to have recovered from anhydrous ammonia damage by July, but not from urea damage. All of the anhydrous ammonia treatments were at least as effective as the treatment where all N was fertigated in terms of soil and plant stem nitrate levels during the growing season and final crop oil yields. Ur.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Westcott, M.P., Welty, L.E., Knox, M.L. and Prestbye, L.S. 1995. Managing alfalfa and berseem clover for forage and plowdown nitrogen in barley rotations.Agron. J.87:1176-1181.
- Callan, N.W. and Westcott, M.P. 1996. Drip irrigation for application of potassium to tart cherry. J. Plant Nutrition 19:163-172.
|
Progress 01/01/95 to 12/30/95
Outputs
Research was conducted to develop N fertilizer management strategies for enhancing grain protein levels in irrigated hard red spring wheat. The objective was to develop plant diagnostic criteria for detecting the likelihood of increasing grain protein levels with N topdressing at heading. Diagnostic methods included flag leaf N analysis (laboratory) and in-field testing of flag leaf 'greenness' with the SPAD chlorophyll meter, an indirect measure of N status. Three varieties of hard red spring wheat were grown at six locations across the state of Montana with variable rates of initial N in replicated trals. At heading, plots were assayed for flag leaf N and flag leaf SPAD level, then split so that half of each plot received a topdressing of 45 kg N/ha. At harvest, plots were assayed for grain yield, protein level, crop N uptake, and residual soil nitrate levels. It was found that flag leaf N and SPAD levels were well correlated (r = 0.85**) and both were good
predictors of grain protein response to N topdressing, though the SPAD readings needed to be normalized against the highest level at each location. A strategy of moderate initial N fertilization followed with N topdressing at heading based on plant diagnosis was more effective and more efficient in attaining optimum yileds and high protein (14%) than one of high initial N fertilization. Topdressing did not result in elevated residual soil nitrate.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/94 to 12/30/94
Outputs
Plant diagnostic methods are being developed for application to precise nitrogenmanagement in high input crops in response to concerns over nitrate leaching from these systems. Application of the SPAD chlorophyll meter to N management in peppermint (Piper mentha) was investigated by comparing SPAD meter readings to stem nitrate levels in this high N-input crop over the course of two growing seasons. It was found that SPAD levels elicit a linear-plateau response with respect to stem nitrate levels, indicating that SPAD levels do not respond to luxury levels of plant N. This concept was applied to a system of plant response N fertilization (PRF) in peppermint. Treatments managed by PRF were fertilized with a moderate rate of N at the beginning of the growing season and monitored by leaf SPAD analysis periodically in comparison to reference plots receiving high rates of fertili- zation. Additional N was applied to PRF plots in response to comparative deficits. The PRF
oil yields were as high as any of the treatments receiving a prescribed rate of N, but with less total N applied.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/93 to 12/30/93
Outputs
Plant diagnostic methods are being developed for application to precise nitrogenmanagement in high input crops in response to concerns over nitrate leaching from these systems. In a kinetic study of soil-plant nitrate relations in potato (Solanum tuberosum) and peppermint (Piper mentha), it was found that plant dry matter or sap nitrate concentration, measured in petioles or stems, adhered to a Michaelis-Menten model of saturation kinetics with respect to concurrent soil nitrate concentrations. Kinetic parameters were similar between species if sap nitrate concentration was assumed to be a measure of rate of N uptake. From this kinetic model was developed the concept of derivative plant diagnosis, a measure of the instantaneous rate of behavior. This was applied to a system of plant response N fertilization (PRF) in peppermint. Treatments managed by PRF were fertilized with a moderate rate of N at the beginning of the growing season and monitored by sap nitrate or
leaf chlorophyll analysis periodically in comparison to reference plots receiving high rates of fertilization. Additional N was applied to PRF plots in response to comparative deficits. The PRF oil yields were as high as any of the treatments receiving a prescribed rate of N, but with less total N applied.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/92 to 12/30/92
Outputs
Irrigation and nitrogen management for newly planted peppermint (Mentha piperita) were studied on a Pachic Haploxeroll in western Montana. Rates up to 336 kg N/ha (season total) were applied as a urea solution spray under a line-source sprinkler system in weekly increments. Foliage and oil yields optimized with 270 kg N/ha and a weekly input of 2.4 cm of water. Irrigation scheduling (once vs. twice/week) did not affect foliage or oil yields. In general, optimum yields depended on maintenance of stem dry matter nitrate-nitrogen at or above 1.0% and stem sap nitrate at or above 6,000 ppm through the growing season. In a study of nutrient cycling in sustainable vs. conventional cropping systems, rotational effects of legumes compared to continuous barley were evidenced in grain biomass and nutrient yields and in the amounts of biomass and nutrients recycled through crop residues. These latter amounts were considerable for N and K, in some instances greater than amounts
added as fertilizer in conventional systems, but were not correlated with the amounts of these nutrients incorporated in the first phase. Forage Brassicas were spring seeded and harvested at intervals of 4, 6, or 8 weeks. 'Global' and 'Westar' (spring types) produced over 12 Mg/ha across all harvest treatments. 'Emerald'(winter type) produced 14 Mg/ha with the 8-week interval and 10 Mg/ha in the other harvest treatments.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/90 to 12/30/90
Outputs
Field studies on the management of small-seeded legumes for hay and green manureestablished that 'Bigbee' berseem clover (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) and 'Nitro' alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) could be cut twice for hay to produce 2.5 to 3.0 Mg/ha dry matter and regrowth would provide up to 75 kg N/ha for green manuring, sufficient to meet the nitrogen needs of a subsequent barley (Hordeum valgare L.) crop. Spring soil nitrate levels were higher following fall incorporation of the alfalfa cultivar than the berseem clover. Second year benefits of the green manure treatments to barley were greatly diminished, but continued effects were noted at the site with lowest native fertility. Critical petiole nitrate levels for potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) were determined to be 25 g NO3-N/kg at time of tuber initiation and declined to 13 g/kg during the period of tuber growth. Responses to midseason N application occurred when petiole nitrate levels fell below 11 g/kg. Further work
on nitrogen timing indicated that critical levels based on predominately early applications of N may be artifactually high. Yields were optimized by N fertility schemes which maintained petiole nitrate levels above 13 g/kg throughout the season. Petiole sap nitrate levels as determined with a portable nitrate-specific electrode device correlated well (R2=0.82) with laboratory analysis of nitrate on a dry weight basis. A study was initiated on the interaction of N timing with irrigation amounts.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/89 to 12/30/89
Outputs
Two small-seeded annual legumes, 'Bigbee' berseem clover (Trifolium alexandrinumL.) and 'Nitro' alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), were subjected to various cutting schedules at two irrigated locations with the objective of producing hay and green manure in a single growing season. Two cuttings for hay produced 2.5 to 3.0 Mg/ha dry matter and regrowth provided 75 kg N/ha for green manuring. The following cropping season, barley yield response to this level of green manuring was equivalent to the optimum rate of fertilizer nitrogen. Earliness and yield of broccoli (Brassica oleracea L.) were stimulated by row cover materials (i.e. spunbonded polyester) when used at an early planting date. With normal planting date, earliness was promoted but yields were not affected. In a three year study of nitrogen fertilization of seed potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.), yields maximized with application rates of 200 to 300 kg N/ha. Tuber quality was reduced by higher rates of application.
Critical levels of petiole nitrate-N were established as 2.4, 1.4, and 0.9% at the tuber initiation, beginning of tuber fill, and mid tuber fill growth stages, respectively. Soil nitrate levels to 120 cm showed evidence of nitrate movement below the crop rotting zone. This effect was pronounced at rates of fertilization above optimum. Petiole nitrate testing is a method to control nitrogen fertilization during the growing season and to avoid quality and N loss problems associated with excessive fertilization.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/88 to 12/30/88
Outputs
A system for the production of both hay and green manure from small-seeded, annual legumes during a single growing season was tested by subjecting 'Bigbee' berseem clover and 'Nitro' alfalfa to 0, 1, 2, or 3 cuttings, with all regrowth following the final cut in each treatment incorporated as green manure. Green manure production ranged from 600 to 900 kg/ha (d.m.) for the clover and alfalfa respectively when cut 3 times to as high as 10,500 kg/ha for the clover with no cuts (all green manure). The optimum cutting schedule for both species was to cut in early July and late August with regrowth for green manure. This yielded 5500 and 3500 kg/ha as green manure for either species. Nitrogen relations of potatoes were studied in field experiments with N rates of 0 to 336 kg N/ha as treatments. Parameters measured included yield and quality of tubers and petiole nitrate-N at three growth stages. Yield response to N rate varied with location due to variations in initial
soil-N status but consistency was found in regressing relative yield (% of maximum yield at each site) against petiole nitrate levels at each growth stage. The strongest relationship was found at the beginning of tuber fill indicating a critical petiole nitrate-N level of 1.8% at this growth stage. This is consistent with the previous results. Considerations of quality showed that optimum marketable yields occur at lower levels of added N than do total yields.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/87 to 12/30/87
Outputs
Research on nitrogen relations of potatoes (Solanum tuberosum) was conducted at three field sites. Rates of 0-336 kg N/ha as NH4NO3 were applied postemergence; an additional 67 kg N/ha was top-dressed to subplots at beginning of tuber fill. Objectives were to describe yield response to N and to identify petiole nitrate sufficiency levels as a function of growth stage. Petiole nitrate levels ranged from 65 to 130 mg/g (dry-tissue basis) at tuber initiation and were relatively unresponsive to applied N at this early date. Levels declined to as low as 5 mg NO3/g tissue and became increasingly dependent on applied N as the season progressed. Tuber yields ranged from 36.5 to 58.2 mg/ha; response to N ranged from no response to linear to quadratic at the three sites. Regression of yield versus petiole nitrate showed good predictive value if growth stages are considered separately. Yield responses to top-dressed N were verified for treatments with low (<80 mg/g) midseason
petiole nitrate levels. In a water management study for wild rice (Zizania sp.), leaf Mn and Fe concentrations were 476 and 173 ug/g, respectively, under permanently flooded conditions and were significantly reduced to 47 and 82 ug/g, respectively, under nonflooded irrigation. Plant P levels were unaffected by irrigation regime but N levels were significantly higher under nonflooded conditions. Nonflooded grain yields were half of what were found with permanent flooding.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 10/01/85 to 12/30/86
Outputs
A field trial was conducted on a loam soil to study the response of three broccoli (Brassica oleracea) cultivars, differing in potential head size, to plant spacings of 15, 30, 46, and 60 cm within 102 cm rows and N rates of 84, 168, 252, and 336 kg N/ha as NH4NO3. The three cultivars Duke, Valiant, and Defender had average yields of 4430, 6157, and 9624 kg/ha fresh wt, respectively. Maximum yields (7048, 10730, and 13942 kg/ha, respectively) were obtained with the closest plant spacing and highest N rates for all cultivars. Head size across cultivars showed a positive, linear relationship to plant spacing (X = 6.43 S + 77.3; r2 = .27**; where X = head size, g; and S = plant spacing, cm); acceptable sizes were not obtained at the highest yield levels. The relationship between head size, plant spacing, and N level for all cultivars (X = 48.1 + 0.14N + 2.53 S; r2 = .29**, N = applied N kg/ha) and similarly for yield (y = 9,422 + 5.5N - 100.8 S; r2 = .31**; y = yield,
kg/ha) can be derived for individual cultivars to define optimum plant spacings and N rates for grower-specified head sizes. A similar trial with sweet corn (Zea mays) indicated a within-row (102 cm) spacing of 20 cm and an applied N rate of 150 kg N/ha as NH4NO3 to give optimum yields of 12,070 and 15,950 kg/ha of unhusked ears for the cultivars Earlivee and Spartan, respectively. A preliminary study of wild rice (Zizanae sp.) production in western Montana demonstrated yield levels of roughly 1,100 kg/ha dry wt of unmilled grain.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 10/01/84 to 09/30/85
Outputs
A pilot program integrating field soil moisture, plant water use, and farmer education was developed in cooperation with BPA and USBR. Soil moisture, rainfall and irrigation, and plant development of 4 crops were monitored twice weekly in the 1984 and 1985 growing seasons at 12 sites. Plant water use was determined for each site and used with prediction equations to make irrigation recommendations for cooperating farmers. Water use values were released to the agricultural public with specific suggestions for irrigation scheduling. Alfalfa coefficients of Penman evapotranspiration closely correlated with actual water use. Calculated values appeared lower than actual barley water use until the joint stage but thereafter remained close. Calculated values of total potato water requirements over the season were similar to actual use, but short-term comparisons were not consistent. Drip-irrigated raspberry water use was not closely related to calculated values. In
1984, actual water application was often more than twice that necessary to replenish soil moisture. In areas where salt levels and leaching requirements are low, water rates and related pumping power requirements could be significantly reduced.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/84 to 09/30/84
Outputs
Soil moisture levels, rainfall and irrigation rates, and plant development stages were monitored twice weekly thoughout the 1984 growing season at twelve field sites representing four closely correlated with actual water use except for one period in early June and during harvest and irrigation events. Calculated values appeared lower than actual barley water use until the joint stage, but thereafter remained close through maturity. Total season water use of potatoes appeared close to calculated values. Short-term comparisons, however were not consistant. Drip-irrigated raspberry plant water use was not closely related to calculated values especially during short-term periods. This was at least partially caused by the inability to accurately differentiate between lateral and downward water movement from the spot-source irrigation system. At a number of field sites farmer-applied irrigation rates were more than twice those necessary to replenish the soil moisture
profile. In areas such as Western Montana where salt levels and leaching requirements are very low, water rates could be significantly reduced.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/83 to 12/30/83
Outputs
Rate studies over a three year period were conducted on two historically sulfur-deficient soils. Flathead fine sandy loam and Kalispell fine sandy loam; each resulting in 3-fold alfalfa yield increasesfrom optimum levels of sulfur (S) fertilizer. Yields were maximized by 45 Kg/h S applied annually or the equivalent. Ninety Kg/h of initial S failed to maintain maximum yields the third year. Nearly complete yield recovery was achieved the third year with 45 Kg/h S on previously non-fertilized plots. Sandy loams and loamy sand surface soils in the potato growing areas south of Flathead Lake are declining in pH levels over a 25-year period. Preliminary investigations show that surface pH levels have declined from 6.2 to 5.6. The first significant crop response, on Austrian peas to a lime application, was noted this year. Nutrient-element levels in alfalfa were appraised as a diagnostic tool to identify nutrient abnormalties and refine fertilizer recommendations in
western Montana. Data from 85 field experiments on major soil types of seven western counties over a ten-year period was evaluated. Sulfur fertilizer recommendations based on soil tests were accurate at 65% of the sites. Using the nitrogen-sulfur ratio of alfalfa tissue in addition to the soil test increased precision to 95%. Likewise, phosphorus fertilizer recommendations gained in accuracy from 78 to 89% when plant analyses were included.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/82 to 12/30/82
Outputs
Sulfur deficiencies are of major importance in western Montana forage production and cattle nutrition. In 18 of 42 trials, sulfur significantly increased yields and raised grass protein levels from 9.9 to 10.4% and alfalfa from 15.9 to 17.5%. With legume-grass mixtures, protein was increased by higher proportions of legume as well as elevated plant levels. Soil test sulfur levels were not indicative of response probabilities. When nitrogen-sulfur ratios of alfalfa were greater than twenty, sulfur yield response was highly probable. Critical N:S ratios of grass forage were lower and of less predictive value. The first recorded spring wheat response from sulfur in western Montana was noted in a 1982 trial, with 40 pounds of sulfur giving a maximum increase from 63 to 72 bushels per acre. Unfertilized plant sulfur levels of 0.15 were increased to 0.27 per cent with 40 pounds of sulfur. N:S ratios dropped from 34 to 18.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/81 to 12/30/81
Outputs
Molybdenum levels of human blood and locally produced milk at Missoula, Montana,have previously been reported higher than normal. Systematic plant sampling of suspect soils have delineated areas of high molybdenum-normal copper forages on certain peat soils of the Lower Brunt Fork drainage. Molybdenum-induced copper deficiencies in livestock of the area were corrected with copper supplementation. No molybdenum evaluation has previously been made of forages from well-drained mineral soils of western Montana. Samples of alfalfa and orchard grass from seven previously conducted fertilizer experiments were analyzed for molybdenum. All were for below toxic levels with alfalfa averaging .91 ppm Mo; orchard grass, .59ppm. Fertilizer nitrogen at a rate of 135 kilograms per hectare increased Mo levels of grass from .49 to .69ppm, while alfalfa Mo was not significantly affected by 112 kilograms of phosphorus per hectare. Fertilizer treatments established three years ago
on severely managanese-toxic (up to 1100ppm Mn) magnesium-deficient (.06% Mg) young sour cherry trees continue to normalize leaf levels. Nine kilograms of lime and 1.1 kilograms of epsom salts have reduced Mn levels to a mean of 221 ppm with a range of 87 to 454 ppm. Current magnesium levels range from .31 to .61, averaging .46%. Trees appear vigorous, excepting those with over 400 ppm Mn.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/80 to 12/30/80
Outputs
Trickle irrigation studies on eight-year-old Montmorency sour cherry trees showed no improvement in tree height, girth or trunk diameter by applying 10 gallons of water per day over the five gallon rate. Irrigation was done on alternate days. Three trickle irrigation treatments were developed on a sour cherry planting. Water rates range from 4-10 gallons/tree/day on three frequency schedules; daily, twice-daily, and weekly. There has not been any indication of differential response in the early stage of the experiment. Boron and zinc treatments have resulted in an 80% increase in growth and a more prostrate growth character on "tam" junipers. Split applications of nitrogen applied seven times increased growth 120%. There was no indication of differential winter injury due to fertilizer treatment.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/79 to 12/30/79
Outputs
Trickle irrigation studies on seven-year-old Montmorency sour cherry trees showed no improvement in tree height, girth, or trunk diameter by applying 10 gallons of water per day over the five gallon rate. Irrigation was done on alternate days. Three trickle irrigation treatments were developed on a new sour cherry planting. Water rates vary from 5-10 gallons/tree/day on three frequency schedules; daily, twice-weekly and weekly. There was no indication of differential response during the year of establishment. Foliar applications of zinc and manganese on seedling oats did not increase nutrient levels or yield when harvested at the dough stage at six Western Montana locations. Foliar applications of nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, boron, manganese and copper on potatoes did not increase leaf levels or yield. Lime applications of two tons per acre on a sour cherry orchard increased 0-3" soil pH from 4.3 to 5.6 and reduced leaf manganese levels from
1100 ppm to 400 ppm. Two and one-half pounds of Epsom salt per tree increased magnesium levels from .08 to .30.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/78 to 12/30/78
Outputs
Micronutrient studies on apple and sweet and sour cherry trees in Western Montana have shown acute boron deficiencies. Studies of rates and comparisons of soil vs. foliar spray applications of boron indicate that for acute deficiencies where trees are dying, both a foliar spray and soil-applied boron at a rate of 2 pounds B per acre is desireable. Increasingly, acid soils due to long-term sulfur fertilization, have resulted in acute manganese deficiencies in several orchards. A two ton lime application in established orchards with pH levels of 4.3 increase pH to 5.5 and reduced manganese levels from 750 ppm to 500 ppm the first year. Low magnesium levels were increased with five pounds of epsom salts per acre. A combination of lime and foliar or soil-applied magnesium eliminated deficiency symptoms typlified by yellowing of older leaves, early leaf loss and subsequent death of the trees. Micronutrient foliar or soil applications on hay, potatoes and oats did not
result in any significant yield increases.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/77 to 12/30/77
Outputs
A biweekly news release of plant water use and irrigation scheduling was developed during the growing season of 1977, the driest on record. Pan evaporation, water depletion values from irrigation experiments, and the modified use of published formulas were used to determine daily and weekly water use, and to project the anticipated need. Experiment Station tensiometers were monitored in three counties by agricultural agents and the information was passed onto the agricultural public. Crop yields in the area were above average with only 60% of the normal irrigation water, indicating that normal irrigation rates can be significantly reduced. New areas of boron deficiencies in alfalfa have been discovered in the Lone Pine area. Symptoms include bronzing discoloration of the terminals with stunted growth. Affected areas appear in spotty irregular patterns through the field and are associated with drought. Sour cherry orchards have gradually developed acute
production and tree survival problems. Over 1000 trees have been severely damaged or lost, with 2000 moderately affected. Preliminary studies indicate a manganese toxicity due to acid soils (pH 4.7), very low magnesium, and moderately low boron levels. Further field studies are planned to determine the most efficient sources and rates of lime and fertilizer material.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/76 to 12/30/76
Outputs
Fertilizer studies on western Montana alfalfa-grass hay fields have been continued. Yield responses were generally obtained from nitrogen, phosphorus and sulfur but not potassium, boron, iron, zinc, copper, manganese or molybdenum. Micronutrients were applied both in the dry and foliar-spray forms.Sulfur deficiencies are becoming increasingly common with nearly 80% of the current experiments indicating significant yield responses from the element in the sulfate form. Fall applied sulfer was more effective than spring applied. Optimum yields were generally achieved by a rate of 40 pounds of S per acre. Soil test sulfer has not appeared to give a reliable indication of crop response. Both plant S and the plant N-S ratio were better correlated with yield response than soil test S.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/75 to 12/30/75
Outputs
Significant nitrate leaching losses found in previous studies prompted investigation of irrigation management in western Montana. Tensiometer, Bouyoucos block, and gravimetric moisture determination at five depths were madedaily during the irrigation season on thirteen potato fields representing ten major soil types. Tensiometers at three depths offered the best possibility as a practical method for monitoring soil moisture. Bouyoucos blocks were ineffective on course-textured soils. Potato farmers have generally decreased irrigation rates in the years since nitrate movement studies have began, nitrogen fertilizer rates have been reduced and yields are holding steady or slightly increasing. Nitrate accumulations which were found at depths of from three to five meters four years ago under a number of potato fields appear to remain constant. Fertilizer studies on twelve western Montana hay fields were initiated. Responses were generally obtained from nitrogen,
phosphorus and sulfur but not potassium, boron, iron, zinc, molybdenum or manganese. Foliar applications of P, K, Zn, Fe or Mn did not increase yields on silage corn.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/74 to 12/30/74
Outputs
Investigations of downward nitrate movement in western Montana soils continued. Past studies show the extent of movement to be dependent upon irrigation practices and soil texture. This year attempts were made to monitor soil water and nitrate levels on seven potato farms and provide twice-weekly irrigation recommendations. There appeared to be a significant increase in water use efficiency over previous years on the farms studied. The typical mid-season chlorosis caused by inadequate nitrogen due to leaching loss did not generally occur this year. In turn, potato yields were greater than normal. A sweet cherry leaf analyses study has been completed in the Flathead Lake region showing general deficiencies of nitrogen, phosphorus, boron and zinc; with occasional low levels of potassium, sulfur, iron, manganese and copper. Fertilizer experiments on potatoes showed the following: Urea out-performed ammonium nitrate as a nitrogen source, producing 301 cwts. per acre
compared to 287 cwts. with ammonium nitrate and 177 cwts. with no nitrogen. Humate increased average yields from 254 to 259 cwts. per acre. This difference appears unsignificant. Low rates (330 lbs. per acre) of banded humate increasedyield 8 cwts. per acre over comparable non-humate plots and this difference is significant. Humate with 60 lbs. of N per acre increased yields from 230 to 262cwts. per acre, but far below yields attained by higher nitrogen rates. Humate alone did not induce a yield response.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/73 to 12/30/73
Outputs
Investigations of downward nitrate movement in western Montana soils continued. Past studies show the extent of movement to be dependent upon irrigation practices and soil texture. This year irrigation management was monitored on 10potato fields, including twice weekly measurements of irrigation rates, precipitation, gravometric and bouyoucos soil moisture and soil nitrate. Although 1973 was one of the driest crop years on record in western Montana, with most irrigation waters depleted by August 15, many cooperators made no attempt to increase water use efficiency on sandy soils by reducing excessive water rates. Irrigation practices appear to be so highly influenced by irrigation design, traditional water changing habits, a euphoria of water plenty, and labor problems that changes will come only slowly. Micronutrient plant analysis of western Montana Forage continues to indicate normal cobalt, low selenium, and in some areas, high molybdenum. A sweet cherry leaf
analysis study has been completed in the Flathead Lake region showing general deficiencies of nitrogen, phosphorus, boron, and zinc; with occasional low levels of potassium, sulfur, iron, anganese, and copper.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/72 to 12/30/72
Outputs
The downward movement of nitrates in Western Montana soils has been investigatedon 8 agricultural soil types. The extent of movement was dependent upon irrigation practices and soil texture. Fertilizer studies over three years at twelve locations in the Flathead Valley indicated no response on hay from boron,iron, zinc, or molybdenum. Plant analysis indicated slight uptake of zinc and iron. Six forage species were evaluated for yield and quality when subjected tothree harvest schedules and three fertility levels. Production of total proteinand phosphorus was greatest at the bud stage, while maximim dry matter yield occurred at early bloom stage. Phosphorus fertilizer increased hay phosphorus levels. Nitrogen fertilizer increased grass protein levels. Dry matter yield response from fertilizer varied by species.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/71 to 12/30/71
Outputs
Fertilizer studies over two years at eight locations in the Flathead valley indicated no response on hay from boron, iron, zinc, and molybdenum. Plant analysis indicated slight uptake of zinc and iron. A survey of 90 Lake County hays indicated a normal range of plant iron, copper, and zinc. A three year study of heifer calves internal parasites on 10 ranches indicates a relationshipbetween the degree of round worm infestation, sanitation, and cattle density. Liver flukes were not found in two areas at each end of the valley, but were prevalent elsewhere. Unpredictable outbreaks of coccidia occurred on two ranches, apparently due to stress, but were not evident on several other similarranches. Lung worm reached a mid-summer peak on several ranches. Anthelmintic treatment of the herd with the highest infection reduced egg counts but reinfestation occurred rapidly. No weight gain resulted from the treatment. Cherry leaf samples from 78 orchards over a two year
period indicate significantrelationships between phosphorus, sulfur, and boron leaf levels and past fertilizer practices. Other elements occurring at low levels were nitrogen, calcium, magnesium, and iron. Nitrate movement under sugarbeet fertility trialsindicated the movement of nearly 100 pounds of NO(3)-N to below the root zone bythe first furrow irrigation and complete flushing to an 11 foot water table by the second. The irrigations management was typical of the area where water is abundant, soil is light textured, and irrigation runs are long.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/70 to 12/30/70
Outputs
Lungworm, gastrointestinal nematode, and liver fluke infestation levels have been observed on replacement heifers from 10 Bitterrot Valley ranches for three years. Infestation peaks of gastrointestinal nematodes and lungworms have been relatively consistent between years. Detailed experiments to determine the effectiveness of drugs on areas of high infestation are being initiated. Molybdenum-toxic pastures discovered last year were pinpointed exclusively to peat soils developed in the drainage of the Burnt Forks Creek east of Stevensville, Montana. Greenhouse and field experiments on 13 western Montana soils indicated no significant yield responses to the following micronutrient fertilizers: iron, zinc, manganese and copper. One soil appeared to respond to boron and molydenum in greenhouse studies but has not yet been evaluated in field experiments. A survey of the nutrient status of sweet cherry orchards on Flathead Lake has been completed. The two year study
indicated relatively low levels of nitrogen, calcium, magnesium, iron, copper, zinc, manganese and boron as compared to Washington, Utah, Wisconsin, and Michigan data.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/69 to 12/30/69
Outputs
Since completion of the ranch survey of hay nutritional levels as related to beef cattle health and weight gain, emphasis has been placed on a detailed studyof internal parasites of beef cattle in cooperation with Dr. Worley of the Montana Veterinary Research Laboratory. The peak of gastro-intestinal nematodesobserved in 1968 was further defined. A mid-summer lungworm buildup was more pronounced than last year. Again, considerable variation was evident between ranches. A high-molybdenum pasture (red clover, 49.0 ppm Mo) discovered in cooperation with Dr. Kubota of the Soil, Plant, and Nutrition Laboratory was further studied. Samples of vegetation and soil were collected at ten sites to elucidate the extent of the problem. Nine fertilizer experiments, evaluating relationships between fertilizers and hay nutrient levels, yield, and botanical composition, confirmed previously noted phosphorus and sulfur deficiencies. Greenhouse experiments on four problem soils
infertile to alfalfa indicated potassium and boron responses.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/68 to 12/30/68
Outputs
A study of hay nutritional levels as related to beef cattle health and weight gain on 40 ranches has been completed and will soon be published. Selenium levels of Bitter Root Valley alfalfa appears nearly adequate on intensively phosphate-fertilized soils; hays on all other soils are very low in Selenium. Fifteen fertilizer experiments, evaluating relationships between fertilizer treatments and hay nutrient levels, yield, and botanical composition, showed significant changes in each parameter with various fertilizer treatments. Internal parasites of heifer calves on ten ranches apparently reach a peak within 6 months after weaning and slowly decline thereafter. Considerable variation was evident between ranches. A study of cherry tree leaf analysis, involving 45 orchards, indicated general deficiencies of nitrogen and possible deficiencies of several micronutrients. The effect of fertilizer on yield and quality of sugar beets, winter wheat, and barley were
evaluated in separate experiments. High nitrogen rates increased sugar beet yield but did not affect sugar content. Nitrogen and phosphorus increased small grain yield.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
Progress 01/01/67 to 12/30/67
Outputs
A three-year study of hay nutritional levels as related to beef cattle health and weight gain on 40 ranches is nearing completion. A significant relationshipbetween phosphorus, protein, nutritional levels and livestock productivity appears to exist. Experiments measuring the effect of selenium-tocopherol on weaner calf weight have been completed on 9 ranches involving over 900 animals. There is evidence of significant weight gains due to treatment with significant variation between ranches. Selenium levels have been determined on hays representing 50 ranches. Selenium levels and white muscle disease occurrence appear to be related. Fifteen fertilizer experiments, evaluating relationships between fertilizer treatments and hay chemical levels, yield, and botanical composition, showed significant changes in each parameter with various fertilizer treatments. A survey of internal parasite incidence in heifer calvesrepresenting 10 ranches has been initiated.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
|
|