The Effect of Split Nitrogen Application Rate on Three Varieties of Industrial Hemp in Manitoba
Hemp Genetics, Parkland Industrial Hemp Growers, Manitoba Harvest
To understand the effect of split verses banding nitrogen fertilizer to optimize industrial hemp grain yields.
- Despite the split nitrogen application averaging 13% greater grain yield, overall there was no statistically significant difference in grain yield when applying nitrogen in one application at seeding verses 70% at seeding and 30% at stem elongation.
- There was no significant difference in height between a split application or single application of nitrogen.
- Applying nitrogen in a split format did not affect grain yield in industrial hemp.
- Further study is required to understand the potential benefit of split nitrogen application in industrial hemp.
Current nitrogen recommendations for nitrogen are 80-120 lb/ac, with some suggesting higher rates, depending on variety and growing conditions. However, the economic risk of applying all nitrogen at planting can be high, especially if prolonged stress restricts the plants’ utilization of the added nutrients. Additionally, in many cases it is not logistically possible to apply all the nutrient requirements at seeding. Split nitrogen applications have the potential to increase seeding efficiencies and allow growers to adjust rates of application according to growing conditions.