Corn Highlights

Fertilizers

Of the three primary macronutrients, nitrogen (N) was the most widely used on corn. Farmers applied nitrogen to 97 percent of planted acres at an average rate of 140 pounds per acre for the 2010 crop year. Macronutrients phosphate (P) and potash (K) were also applied to the majority of acres, but less extensively used. The secondary
macronutrient, sulfur (S), was applied to 15 percent of acres planted to corn.

Pesticides

Herbicide active ingredients were applied to 98 percent of acres planted to corn, and almost two-thirds of all active ingredients used on corn were herbicides. Glyphosate isopropylamine salt was the most widely used pesticide overall, and the active ingredient used in the greatest total amount. Fungicide and insecticide active ingredients were applied to 8 percent and 12 percent of acres planted to corn, respectively.

Pest Management Practices

Scouting for weeds was the top pest management practice on corn acreage.

Top Pest Management Practices, by Percent of Planted Corn Acres, 2010 Program States

                 Top Practice           %

Fertilizers: Applications to Corn Planted Acres, 2010 Program States

                    Fertilizer




Pesticides: Percent of Corn Planted Acres Treated, 2010 Program States


Top Pesticides Used, by Percent of Corn Planted Acres Treated, 2010 Program States
                       
                  Active Ingredient


Source: USDA