Nitrogen Application Timing Effects on Downy Brome (Bromus tectorum) and Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum) Growth and Yield

Abstract

Field studies were conducted for two years at two locations near Pendleton and Moro, OR to evaluate the influence of single sub-surface nitrogen (N) fertilizer application timings and multiple N applications on downy brome and winter wheat growth and yield. N applications in fallow, at planting, during the crop season, and several split N application timings were compared to evaluate downy brome interference in winter wheat. N application rates varied between locations as a function of average annual precipitation and accepted agricultural practice. Pendleton and Moro were considered high and low precipitation sites, respectively. At Pendleton in a year of above average precipitation, N applied at planting, in-crop, or split applications of N with part of N applied at planting and part in-crop, increased downy brome dry matter production compared to N applied in fallow. Downy brome infestation eliminated otherwise positive wheat yield benefits of split N application compared to the conventional commercial practice of N application in fallow. In a year of moderate precipitation, N applications at planting, in-crop, or split N applications did not benefit wheat yield compared to N application in fallow, but downy brome dry matter was increased. In a dry season, N rates and timings did not increase downy brome dry weight or wheat grain yield. In the absence of downy brome, alternative N application techniques increased wheat yield only under high growing season precipitation.