Key Points
- AmaizeN is a nitrogen forecaster for maize silage and grain crops that utilises crop and soil models.
- AmaizeN predicts N requirements from factors including hybrid, sowing time, location soil type, pre-plant soil mineral content (0-120cm) and expected weather.
- AmaizeN was tested on four North Island crops in 2005-06. Four N rates were applied to each crop and AmaizeN predicted yields were compared to actual measured yields.
- AmaizeN slightly overestimated silage yield. The forecaster predicts total above ground biomass, while maize silage is normally cut above ground level leading to discrepencies. AmaizeN was very accurate at predicting grain yield.
- In just one season, AmaizeN has shown its potential as a nitrogen management tool for maize production. Future development will test AmaizeN in other environments and refine the user interface.