The pre-sidedress nitrate test (PSNT): Sampling, standards & values to know

Brad and Jeff continue their discussion about variable rate nitrogen technology by zeroing in on the pre-sidedress nitrate test (PSNT). What are key differences between the PSNT and the pre-plant nitrate test (PPNT)? What growth stage should the crop reach before taking a PSNT? How have sampling and storage procedures evolved from past years? How variable can samples actually be within the same zone and between zones? What should farmers watch out for when interpreting test results? Do different methods of N application produce different PSNT results? How about timing? Manure? What's N's 'critical value' in Minnesota? All these answers and more in-depth discussion on today's episode of the Advancing Nitrogen Smart Podcast.Guests:Brad Carlson, Extension educator (Mankato)Jeff Vetsch, Lead researcher, Southern Research and Outreach Center (Waseca)Additional resources:What’s the right PSNT number? New research refines the critical threshold for corn nitrogen decisions in MinnesotaVideo: 6 takeaways on the pre-sidedress nitrate testTips for Accurate Pre-Sidedress Nitrate TestsSplit-applying nitrogen for corn: Three keys for successful sidedress applicationsUnderstanding nitrogen in soils---For the latest nutrient management information, subscribe to the Nutrient Management Podcast. And don't forget to subscribe to the Minnesota Crop News daily or weekly email newsletter, subscribe to our YouTube channel, like UMN Extension Nutrient Management on Facebook, follow us on X (formerly twitter), and visit our website.If you have questions or comments, please email us at nutmgmt@umn.edu.Advancing Nitrogen Smart is proud to be supported by the farm families of Minnesota and their corn check-off investment through Minnesota Corn.