Best Management Practices for Nitrogen on Coarse Textured Soils

Nitrogen (N) is absorbed in large amounts by Minnesota crops. It is the major nutrient supplied in a fertilizer program. In addition, large quantities of nitrogen are part of the crop production ecosystem, including soil organic matter. Biological processes that convert nitrogen to its usable and mobile form (NO3-N) occur continuously in the soil system. For details, see "Understanding Nitrogen in Soils", (FO-3770, Minnesota Extension Service). Nitrogen exists in several forms and conversion from one form to another can be complex. Loss of nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N) from the soil system is a major environmental concern. This is especially true for irrigated sandy soils. Potential for leaching losses of NO3-N, however, can be minimized if Best Management Practices are used. This publication describes those practices that are appropriate for corn and edible beans grown on sandy soils (see map). In Minnesota, sandy soils dominate the landscape in the central and eastcentral regions of the state. These coarse textured soils are also scattered throughout the remainder of the state. This publication also describes suggested Best Management Practices for corn and edible beans grown on coarse textured soils that are not irrigated. The research-based Best Management Practices (BMP's) described in this publication are economically and environmentally sound. It is strongly suggested that they be used voluntarily.