Life Sciences Commons^™

G82-601 Using Phosphorus Fertilizers Effectively, E.J. Penas, D.H. Sander

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

For most effective use of phosphorus, the fertilizer needs to be placed to ensure quick contact by growing roots and minimal contact with the soil.

Phosphorus (P) fertilizers are second only to nitrogen fertilizers in importance for growing crops in Nebraska. However, the principles affecting efficient phosphorus use are totally different. Nitrogen is a mobile nutrient both inside the plant and in the soil, while phosphorus moves very little in the soil. In addition, total plant phosphorus requirements are much lower than those of nitrogen. Plant leaves commonly contain ten times more nitrogen than phosphorus. However, phosphorus is concentrated in …

G82-596 Use And Management Of Micronutrient Fertilizers In Nebraska, George W. Rehm, E.J. Penas

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

This NebGuide focuses on the use of the micronutrients zinc and iron.

Of the 16 elements known to be essential for plant growth, 7 are used in very small amounts and are classified as micronutrients. These are zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), boron (B), molybdenum (Mo) and chlorine (Cl).

Micronutrients are supplied to plants from two sources: 1) soil minerals and 2) organic matter. They are released as the soil minerals break down over a period of time by weathering. The major portion of the micronutrients made available to plants, however, probably comes from the breakdown (mineralization) …

G82-587 Understanding Potassium For Crop Production In Nebraska, George W. Rehm

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

This NebGuide discusses the availability of and the need for potassium in Nebraska soils

Potassium (K) is an essential nutrient absorbed from soils by crops in relatively large amounts. Therefore, it is classified as a major nutrient. Although large amounts are absorbed, potassium is not necessarily needed in a fertilizer program. Numerous studies conducted with all major crops have definitely shown that adding potassium to a fertilizer program does not lead to yield increases on the large majority of soils in Nebraska.