Comparison of Ammonium Phosphate Fertilizer on Seed Safety of Common Agronomic Crops.

Successful seed germination followed by adequate available nutrients are critical for crop growth and productivity. This study recorded the effects of seven phosphorus (P) fertilizers on germination rates of eight crops. The fertilizers used were: 6-24-6 standard poly (80% polyphosphate 20% orthophosphate, salt index: 12), 6-24-6 medium poly (50% polyphosphate 50% orthophosphate, salt index: 12), 6-24-6 high poly (70% polyphosphate 30% orthophosphate, salt index: 12), 11-37-0 high poly (70% polyphosphate 30% orthophosphate, salt index: 20), 4-16-16 (100% orthophosphate, salt index: 10), 3-18-18 (100% orthophosphate, salt index: 10), 9-24-3 (blended polyphosphate/orthophosphate, salt index: low). The seeds used were from the following crops: alfalfa (Medicago sativa), barley (Hordeum vulgare), canola (Brassica napus), corn (Zea mays), cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), field beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), soybean (Glycine max), and wheat (Triticum aestivum). To conduct the study, 13 X 33 cm aluminum tins were filled with a Pocatello variant soil. Seeds were planted in 13 cm long rows. Fertilizer was applied directly to the seeds at a rate of 47 L/ha. Plastic covers were placed over the tins to prevent moisture loss. The experiment was conducted over an eight day time frame. Observations were recorded daily with an emphasis on the number of seeds germinated. The germination rates were compared and the effect of direct fertilizer application was analyzed. Prior research has shown that the salt index of fertilizers applied at planting will effect germination. Observation has indicated when P fertilizer is applied with N, a higher rate of N can be applied with a lower risk of reduced germination rates, this experiment expects similar results.