Agriculture Officials Remind Farmers that Winter Nutrient Applications are Restricted

ANNAPOLIS, MD (Feb. 15, 2011) – Agriculture Secretary Buddy Hance reminds farmers that winter application of nutrients is restricted according to the State’s nutrient management regulations (COMAR 15.20.08.05).  He noted that “winter application of all nutrient sources is prohibited on frozen or snow covered ground.”

The nutrient management regulations prohibit spreading of manure from November 16-February 28, prohibit winter application of stackable manure, and outline specific situations in which non-stackable manure may be applied in the winter months. An individual’s nutrient management plan would reflect these conditions and a farmer must follow the plan, regardless of participation in any cost-share program. Any farmer at risk of exceeding manure storage capacity must contact the Maryland Department of Agriculture before applying the nutrient.

“Maryland farmers are committed to protecting natural resources,” said Secretary Hance.  “The nutrient management plan is both an important crop management and environmental protection tool that farmers must follow. According to the regulations, no stackable manure or poultry litter may be applied to soil until March 1.”

Additionally, nutrient management regulations restrict nutrient application to times closest to plant uptake. This means that late winter fertilizer application on small grains should not occur before crop green up. The date this occurs varies by region and according to weather conditions. In general, when late winter weather conditions initiate crop growth, fertilizer may be applied. Plant green up occurs once winter dormancy has been broken and plant tillering begins. Growers should utilize growth stage as an indicator for late winter application. Applications should be made before wheat reaches the growth stage where the first node appears above the soil line.

Any farmer or nutrient applicator with questions about winter application of fertilizers should call their local extension agent or an MDA nutrient management specialist. The MDA headquarters phone number is 410-841-5959 or click here for a full listing. Nutrient Management Manual and Nutrient Application Guidelines (timing) are available here.