Even though we are currently experiencing the highest fertilizer prices in history now is not the time to cut back on P & K applications. This is Susan Scott with the University of Arkansas, Division of Agriculture.

Phosphorus and potassium are vital nutrients in rice growth and development.

Phosphorus is used by the plant for tillering and plant development. 54 pounds of phosphorus is removed from the soil when you harvest a 180 bu/ac crop. If soil test levels are 26 ppm ore 52 pounds per acre then we recommend 50 units of phosphorus be applied. Phosphorus applications will increase yield when soil test levels are less than 40 pounds per acre.

Potassium is necessary for plant health and disease resistance. Plants growing in low soil K levels often do not exhibit deficiency symptoms and yields may be low, thus the term “hidden hunger”. Expect yield responses from applications of potash when soil test levels are below 260 lbs per acre.

Nitrogen rates for most varieties are 120 to 150 units of nitrogen per acre on silt loam soils. The majority of varieties will receive 90 to 105 units of N preflood. The rest of the nitrogen will be applied at mid-season or at late boot for the hybrids.

Fertility is one of the things we have the most control over during our rice production season and it has the greatest impact on yield. For more information contact the Lonoke County Extension Office.