Key Points
- On five irrigated trials over three seasons, delaying applied N until GS32 (mid-October) has produced less dense crops with increased yields.
- Delayed application of ‘yield N’ has increased proteins by 1.0-1.5%.
- 2/3 of N at GS32, and 1/3 of total N at GS39 has given slightly more yield overall.
- 1/3 of N at GS32, and 2/3 of total N at GS39 provides the best compromise between yield & protein. Add 40kg N/ha at GS59 for a further 0.5% protein lift for bread wheats.
- Less dense crop canopies are likely to have less disease, be less likely to lodge, use less soil moisture early season, and have less in-crop competition for soil moisture and nutrients.