Tillage and Fertilization of Corn Grown on Lespedeza Sod¹

Abstract

Abstract Little research information is available on optimum soil management for row crops grown in the southeastern U.S. on land planted for many years to soil‐conserving legumes. A 5‐year field investigation was conducted to determine the effect of tillage and fertility on the yield of corn ( Zea mays L.) grown on Cecil soil previously planted to sericea lespedega ( Lespedeza cuneata cum de cours. G. Don) for 10 years. Without fertilization, conventional planting produced an average of 608 kg/ha more corn than lister planting without soil preparation. At a high level of fertilization (134‐58‐112 kg/ha of N‐P‐K), tillage did not affect yields. Lister‐planted corn exhibited a stunted and chlorotic condition until 40‐ to 50‐days‐old. Neither lime nor micronutrients alleviated the problem of affected yield. Conventionally planted corn was not chlorotic or stunted. Sericea lespedeza residue was readily mineralized during a 203‐day incubation period in the laboratory. Mineralization of N was highest in soil mixed with leaves and lowest in soil mixed with stem residues. Corn yields were increased as much as 1,719, 947, and 734 kg/ha by N., P, and K, respectively, the first year following sod. A similar response was obtained for N for the average 5‐year yield, but no significant increase was obtained from P or K. The results indicate that optimum fertilization of corn grown following sericea does not differ significantly from that for continuous corn.