Fertilizer Rate and Placement Alters Triticale Forage Yield and Quality

Abstract

On a soil low in available phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N), 14 combinations of N and P fertilizer rates and placement were compared for ‘Presto’ winter triticale (× Triticosecale rimpaui Wittm.) forage production and forage quality. Increasing broadcast N rates increased forage yield and crude protein percentage while lowering forage fiber components. Additional P fertilizer banded with the seed increased forage yield, but crude protein percentage declined and fiber concentrations increased with the additional P. The most efficient use of the fertilizer resource was experienced with small incremental levels of N or P both banded with seed. Seed-banded N at 20 lb/acre produced as much quality forage as when 80 lb of N per acre was broadcast and incorporated. Fertilizing with P at 10 lb/acre banded with the seed produced as much or greater forage as N at 120 lb/acre broadcast and incorporated. Both N and P fertilizer, alone or in combination, can efficiently improve forage yield and quality of ‘Presto’ winter triticale, especially when banded with the seed.