Key points
- The rate of fertiliser that gives maximum profitability is usually much lower than the rate that gives maximum yield.
- The level of soil nutrients can have a significant impact on the response of yield to fertiliser.
- Without an accurate yield prediction, it is not possible to estimate the costs and benefits of a given management decision, such as fertiliser application.
- Improved returns on N fertiliser ($) are possible if N fertiliser inputs are matched to maximise economic returns and not maize yield.