Estimation of corn response to water and applied nitrogen¹

Florida Agricultural Experiment Station Journal Series No. R‐03723.

Abstract

The objective of this work was to use the logistic equation to relate grain and total plant yield of corn [Zea mays (L.)] to water and applied N. Data from field Studies in Florida and Georgia were used in the analysis. Nonlinear correlation coefficients R > 0.98 were obtained. Variation among hybrids, between plant components (grain and total plant), and among years (rainfall) was accounted for in the linear model parameter A, with constant exponential parameters b and c. The linear model parameter A exhibited linear dependence on seasonal rainfall for corn in Georgia. Data from a third study in Florida showed linear dependence of A upon seasonal rainfall plus irrigation for total amounts up to 70 cm. This model provides a convenient tool for relating corn yields to applied N and available water, with the response function separating into the product of a term depending upon water and another depending upon applied N. The equation is mathematically well‐behaved and is easy to use on a pocket calculator by managers and engineers.

Notes

Florida Agricultural Experiment Station Journal Series No. R‐03723.