Four years of data from Memphis-based Agricenter International shows significant row-crop yield increases are possible with sub-inch-precision surface placement of liquid nitrogen (N) protected by a layer of soil.

While the N sealing concept is nothing new, the tests proved patented design changes to the popular Nitrogen Sealing Systems N-Place applicator were good for a conservative 80-pound-per-acre cotton yield increase.

John Miller, owner of Nitrogen Sealing Systems in Caitlin, Ill., says the 4-year dryland trial compared the new NSS precision unit against a knife application of N between the rows or an application of broadcast dry urea. Each treatment received 60 pounds of N.

“The original N-Place operated between rows, servicing both row sides applying N and covering it, but we had to move soil too far,” Miller explains. “The unit tested at Memphis allowed us to move soil only a few inches to complete the covering process. The design also enables growers to use liquid or dry fertilizer for secondary crop feeding.”

Get in the Zone

In 2023 Miller told No-Till Farmer his inspiration for the new design came from studying a photo on the cover of a cotton magazine showing a farmer’s home-built fertilizer applicator designed to place liquid nutrients in the valleys next to raised beds.

“I continually try to convince growers it’s better to fertilize in zones rather than fertilize…