126-7 Managing Phosphorus for Grain Sorghum Production.



Monday, October 17, 2011
Henry Gonzalez Convention Center, Hall C, Street Level

Dennis Coker, Mark McFarland, Tony Provin, Juerg Blumenthal and Dennis Pietsch, Soil and Crop Sciences, Texas Agrilife Extension Service, College Station, TX

Yield response of grain sorghum to phosphorus (P) application depends on a number of factors including residual soil P level, availability of soil moisture, soil chemical and physical properties, and variety planted.  These factors also influence the accuracy of P recommendations for grain sorghum production based on soil test results.  Commonly used as a rotational crop with cotton, growers need relevant, timely information on grain sorghum response to P recommendations across multiple growing environments and seasons.  Studies spanning four seasons were initiated in the Blacklands and Coastal Bend regions of Texas to evaluate the response of grain sorghum to P fertility management.  Supplemental P was applied where suggested to achieve soil test recommendations based on residual soil P to a 15-cm depth.  Yields at most locations were limited by a relatively dry mid season in year one and two.  Management of P applications for production of grain sorghum based on current soil test recommendations appears to be optimal across seasons and locations.

See more from this Division: S04 Soil Fertility & Plant Nutrition
See more from this Session: Phosphorus and Potassium Management: II