Corn Yield Potential and Optimal Soil Productivity in Irrigated Corn/Soybean Systems

Authors

Achim R. Dobermann, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Timothy J. Arkebauer, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Kenneth G. Cassman, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Rhae A. Drijber, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
J. Lindquist, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
S. Madhaven
John P. Markwell, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Lenis Alton Nelson, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
James E. Specht, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Daniel T. WaltersFollow
Haishun Yang, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Brigid Amos, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Darren L. Binder, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
C. Murphy
Gregory J. Teichmeier, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

2002

Comments

Published in: L.S. Murphy (ed.). 2002. Proceedings of 2002 Fluid Forum, Vol. 19, Fluid Fertilizer Foundation, Manhattan, KS. This project is supported by the Fluid Fertilizer Foundation (FFF), the Foundation for Agronomic Research (Potash & Phosphate Institute and IMC Global, Inc.) and the Nebraska Corn Board. Used by permission.

Abstract

In 1999, an interdisciplinary research team at the University of Nebraska established a field experiment to (1) quantify and understand the yield potential of corn and soybean under irrigated conditions, (2) identify efficient crop management practices to achieve yields that approach potential levels, and (3) determine the energy use efficiency, global warming and soil C-sequestration potential of intensively managed corn systems. The experiment compares systems that represent different levels of management intensity expressed as combinations of crop rotation (continuous corn, corn-soybean), plant density (low, medium, high) and nutrient management (recommended best management vs. intensive management). Detailed measurements include soil nutrient dynamics and C balance, crop growth and development, nutrient uptake and components of yield of corn and soybean, radiation use efficiency, soil surface fluxes of greenhouse gases, root biomass, C inputs through crop residues, translocation of non-structural carbohydrates, and amount, composition and activity of the microbial biomass. Selected results for corn are presented.