Long-term no-till increases soil nitrogen mineralization but does not affect optimal corn nitrogen fertilization practices relative to inversion tillage

No-till management is a proven practice for increasing soil organic matter in many environments. By matter, no-till may increase N mineralization, potentially reducing crop demand fertilizer relative to inversion tillage. In this study, we hypothesized that, tillage (moldboard plowing), long-term would: i) total stocks, ii) mineralized during the growing season, iii) grain yield and uptake, iv) reduce reliance of corn (Zea mays L.) on inputs. We tested these hypotheses long-term, continuous rate study located Lexington, KY. measured mineralizable after 48 years, situ uptake two seasons (2018–2019), five (2015–2019). evaluated effect ways – first was by measuring agronomic optimum systems, second response late fertilization timing systems. found that system had 1000 kg ha−1 greater stocks top 20 cm, 65 more growth, resulted 22−71 780−1800 across rates, respectively, than plowed system. The (AONR) did not differ among treatments, because treatment yielded thus demanded N. Although responded treatment, similar both treatments. conclude increases mineralization tillage, with minimal AONR or optimal application.