News

Proper use of nitrogen additives

Dave Franzen

An extension soil science specialist at North Dakota State University wants farmers to gain a better understanding of how to use nitrogen additives.

Speaking at Tuesday’s Nutrient Management Conference near Morton in southwest Minnesota, David Franzen says these additives can be very helpful if used correctly.

“To prevent or slow the ammonia loss, use urease inhibitors.  And to slow the transformation of ammonia to nitrate, use nitrification inhibitors.”

He tells Brownfield the most confusing thing for farmers seems to be figuring out which additive to use.

“I talk to a lot of farmers that are using urease inhibitor in something they’re incorporating deep, thinking that will slow the transformation of ammonia to nitrate.  That’s not going to work.”

Franzen says he wants all producers to know that urease inhibitors are for surface applications and nitrification inhibitors are for soils prone to leaching or de-nitrification losses.

 

 

 

 

  • Are you telling me that farmers are putting chemicals onto the land in order to lower the nitrate levels…..so…..this would allow them to apply more manure on this plot. Wouldn’t this really be bad for the water systems….more is not less….? Does this mean when I take my soil sample from the top 6 inches or so….my reading is not accurate….? Why would any steward of the land want a false reading…..? Help me understand this.

Add Comment

Your email address will not be published.


 

Stay Up to Date

Subscribe for our newsletter today and receive relevant news straight to your inbox!