Maize at the end of June: fertilise or not?

In many places, maize reaches or approaches flowering in the second half of June. At this point, the main nutrient requirement is already covered – an additional nitrogen application will only have a yield effect in exceptional cases.

When does late fertilisation make sense?

– Only if there is a recognisable deficiency, e.g. light-coloured leaves or underdeveloped plants.

– On light soils, if previous applications have been washed out.

– When rain is expected, as there is no effect without moisture.

What should be observed?

– Nitrogen applications after 30 June only with fertiliser requirement calculation (§ 6 DüV).

– In ‘red areas’ stricter limits apply: max. 170 kg N/ha from organic fertiliser, plus 20 % reduction.

– Sulphur deficiency can still be specifically corrected with sulphate (e.g. ASN).

Recommendation for practice:

Only fertilise specifically if the crop requires it – and only if the effect of water is certain. Blanket top dressing is usually no longer worthwhile and is often not legally permissible.