Project Abstract

Yield trends continue to improve with the adoption of better genetics and agronomic practices, leaving soils deficient of nutrients in critical periods. Relatively immobile nutrients may be accumulating near the soil surface (referred to as nutrient stratification) due to the adoption of zero tillage and shallow banding.

This study determines if the periodic (once every three-years) deep banded application of immobile nutrients (P, K & Cu) can reduce nutrient stratification while improving nutrient uptake and crop production on land previously under direct seeding for >10 years.

Methods

Small plot replicated (treatments arranged in RCBD with 4 replications) trials were conducted on the farmland previously under direct seeding for >10 years. The three study sites (Falher, Vegreville & Lethbridge) covered different soils (brown, black, and grey) and growing season conditions (long, medium, and short) to represent diverse soil types and growing conditions of Alberta. Effects of one-time deep banding (3 x recommended rate at start of three-year study in 2018) versus annual shallow banding (current practice; recommended rates applied each year for 3 years) of immobile nutrients (P, K, and Cu) were compared for 3 years. The study was conducted for canola, wheat, and pea crops.