Document Type
Thesis - University Access Only
Award Date
2009
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department / School
Plant Science
Abstract
Obtaining optimum protein content and yield in spring wheat (Triticum aestivum) can be problematic without proper nitrogen (N) fertilizer management. Sensor based technologies have been used for an accurate and precise application of fertilizers. This technology has also been used to predict yield in wheat although little has been done in the prediction of grain protein. Field studies were conducted in South Dakota in 2006 and 2007. There were five N treatments (0, 56, 112, 168, and 224 kg N ha-1) applied pre-plant with a second N treatment being applied foliar at anthesis to one half of the plot. In 2006, the variety 'Briggs' was tested at Gettysburg, Bath and Cresbard, South Dakota. In 2007, the variety 'Traverse' was tested at Gettysburg, Aurora, Leola and Artas, South Dakota. Sensor readings were taken at growth stages Feekes 6 and Feekes 1 O using the GreenSeeker Hand Held optical sensor. The sensor measures reflectance in the red and near infrared (NIR) region of the electromagnetic spectrum. Grain samples were taken at maturity. Samples were analyzed to determine the protein content. Using similar information collected in 2003 and 2005 at the Feekes 10 growth stage, a critical normalized difference vegetation index (NOVI) value was determined using the Cate-Nelson procedure. The critical NDVI value needed to ensure optimum protein was 0.7. In 2006 and 2007, the plots that received an application of N at anthesis had higher protein contents than the plots not receiving N. There was also a significant response between applied N and grain yield. The results show that with further studies, the Greenseeker could be used to apply N to maximize yield and grain protein in a precise and accurate manner.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Nitrogen fertilizers
Crops and nitrogen
Wheat -- Yields Wheat -- Fertilizers
Plant proteins
Precision farming
Format
application/pdf
Number of Pages
71
Publisher
South Dakota State University
Recommended Citation
Weinkauf, Ann M., "Improving Wheat Yield and Grain Nitrogen Concentration Through Efficient Use of Nitrogen Fertilizer" (2009). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 1489.
https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/etd2/1489
