Nutrient Uptake and Partitioning in Current Kansas Wheat Varieties.

A better understanding of nutrient uptake patterns during the growing season for winter wheat (Triticum aestivum) can help to improve nutrient management decisions at the farm level. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of macro and micronutrient fertilization on nutrient uptake and partitioning for modern Kansas wheat varieties. This study was conducted during the 2014-2015 growing season at the Manhattan North Farm research station, Kansas State University. The experimental design was a randomized complete block with two treatmentsu and four replications. Treatments included a control with agronomic recommended N application, and a treatment with N,P,K and micronutrient fertilization. Aboveground wheat biomass was collected every 7-10 days from spring green-up until harvest, with 1-2 samplings in the fall before dormancy. Root samples were also collected one time during the growing season at flowering. Plant samples were separated into the main plant fractions including leaves, stems, spike, grain and roots. Weights of all plant samples were recorded and samples were analyzed for total macro and micronutrient content. Results show a very limited plant biomass and nutrient uptake in the fall, with a very rapid growth and uptake in the spring. These results will help to determine critical fertilization timings to optimize nutrient availability and yields.