An Integrated Plant Nutrition System (IPNS) for Corn-Soybean Rotations in the Mid-Atlantic USA.

Sustainable agriculture production depends on the development and use of methods that optimize nutrient cycling, minimize the use of external inputs, and maximize input use efficiency according to the conditions of each region. The principle of an integrated plant nutrition system (IPNS) is the balanced supply of appropriate nutrients to ensure that all the essential nutrients are available to match the nutrient availability to crop demand at any growth stage and to maintain the ability to supply those nutrients over the long-term. This project investigates the integrated use of inorganic, organic and biological fertilizer resources in row crops rotations in the Mid-Atlantic USA. We evaluated the effects of commercial nitrogen (N) fertilizers, humic acid compounds, compost/manure teas as inorganic, organic and biological resources, respectively and their synergy on corn (Zea mays L.) growth and soil properties. Greenhouse studies permitted the assessment of: a) early season plant height and biomass; b) spectral reflectance [NDVI]; c) plant hormone levels and d) plant nutrient status. During the field trials, humic acids and compost/manure teas were tested along different rates of N fertilizers and we will evaluate: plant height, plant greenness, plant vigor and Greenseeker^® readings, ear leaf N concentration, grain yield and grain nutrient concentration. In addition, the economic viability of this integrated practice will be calculated.