Maximize Manure Value with Instinct Nitrogen Stabilizer
One of the most common questions we get asked near application season is ‘how do I maximize my manure’s value?’ Since stabilizing nitrogen is the biggest industry challenge, regardless of fertilizer type, our go-to recommendation is Corteva’s Instinct Nitrogen Stabilizer.
Why You Should Use a Nitrogen Stabilizer
As Instinct’s tagline indicates, it’s not just about stabilizing nitrogen but also maximizing its agronomic value for crops. A quick refresher: corn uses nitrogen in the ammonium and nitrate forms, however, ammonium is much more efficient for crop use while being less susceptible to leaching and denitrification. Instinct helps keep nitrogen in the ammonium form longer, ensuring it’s in the root zone when the corn needs it the most. On top of the environmental benefits of keeping nitrogen where it needs to be, research has shown yield bumps of 10-12 bushels per acre, and a 1.3% reduction in harvest moisture.
How To Introduce a Nitrogen Stabilizer
Before introducing Instinct Nitrogen Stabilizer, it’s best to have a strong manure management plan in place; particularly soil testing and knowing your manure’s nutrient values. This will help identify your nitrogen holding capacity and target application rates (typically 10x your Cation Exchange Capacity) while ensuring you aren’t over or underapplying nutrients.
Blending Best Practices
When you are ready to apply, rates are calculated off the number of acres potentially treated, soil temperatures, and your application window.
Instinct Nitrogen Stabilizer is only applied into pump-outs around buildings (not through slats) or into lagoons during agitation for complete product distribution. It is recommended to begin application as soon as the product is agitated in. If the treated manure happens to sit for more than seven days, the pit/lagoon should be reagitated for uniform product distribution.
If you want to take the agronomic value of your manure to the next level, consider incorporating Instinct Nitrogen Stabilizer into your fall manure plans. Contact the manure management team at Stutsman for more information.