Grant ID Number: ONE10-116
Grant Recipient: Christine Hoepting, Cornell University, Albion NY
Muck soils have higher pH than is optimal for onions, affecting yield and the amount of P released into waterways; improved management practices could resolve both issues. The project manager will test if and acid-forming fertilizers such as mono- or di-ammonium phosphate and magnesium sulfate can be applied at planting two to three inches below the seed, reducing pH and improving the availability of P, manganese, zinc, and boron. The focus is to evaluate this practice and understand the relationship between pH, nutrient availability, and yield under variable field conditions, and to offer fine-tuned recommendations to farmers. Outreach will be through twilight meetings, conferences, and extension, and the web.
