Years of UF Research Yields Science-Backed Fertilization Rates

In 2022, state funding made it possible for the UF/IFAS Nutrient Management Program (NMP) to begin scrutinizing long-established fertilization rates for 14 crops to determine whether updates are needed. The goal was to pinpoint the appropriate amount of fertilizer to achieve optimum yield for each crop without posing harm to the environment. To that end, more than 60 scientists commenced 19 research projects across the state.

But it takes years of crop growth trials with calibrated adjustments for different variables to validate results and identify appropriate nutrient rates, said Michael Dukes, interim director of the program.

“We’ve been consumed with ramping things up, establishing relationships with growers, buying equipment, and conducting the research,” Dukes said. “Now, we’re at a point where we’re seeing results.”

NMP scientists are honing application rates for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Past recommendations for those key macronutrients needed updating to represent current production systems as well as to account for Florida’s varied environmental conditions, including diverse soil types ranging from sand to muck, or its hardiness zones, which range from 8b to 11b.

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