Nitrogen fertilizer influence on aflatoxin contamination of corn in Louisiana

Studies were conducted in 1997 and 1998 on a Gigger silt loam at the Macon Ridge Research Station at Winnsboro, LA, to determine the influence of nitrogen (N) rate, timing, and starter nitrogen fertilizer on aflatoxin contamination in corn. Fertilizer N (0, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 lb of N/acre), two timings (at planting and six-leaf stage), and starter N fertilizer (a control and 10 lb of N/acre applied in furrow) were evaluated. Application of starter, N rates, and the interaction of starter with N timing and N rates significantly affected aflatoxin levels. Rates of 50-250 lb of N/acre were 34-43% lower in aflatoxin contamination than plots receiving no N. The application of 10 lb of N/acre starter reduced the aflatoxin levels by 20% compared to the no-starter control.