Inconsistent winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grain yield responses multiple-input management has generated grower interest in focusing input applications within decreased seeding rates. Field trials were initiated in Richville and Lansing, MI to evaluate the effects of seeding rate, fungicide, plant growth regulator, autumn starter fertilizer, weekly nitrogen (N) applications, and high N management on winter wheat plant growth, grain yield, and expected net return within enhanced (i.e. all inputs) and traditional management (i.e. individual input). Enhanced management increased grain yield 1.2-2.3 Mg ha-1 compared to traditional management in three of four site-years. Despite grain yield increases, expected net return was maximized when utilizing traditional management with only a recommended rate of N.Management practices, such as plant population, N rate, row spacing, and subsurface banded N, have changed as sugarbeet (Beta vulgaris L.) tonnage has increased over the past 10 years, however climatic variability continues to influence sugar production. Two separate field studies were initiated to 1) evaluate plant population, N rate, and subsurface banded N and 2) determine whether row spacing affects the need for subsurface banded N. Across tested N rates, 179 kg N ha-1 produced optimal root yield, quality, and expected net return. Benefits from subsurface banded N existed under dry May-June conditions. Row spacing of 56 cm increased root yield compared to 76 cm rows. Sugarbeet response to management practices may be influenced heavily by environmental conditions and environmental trends should be considered when deliberating management strategies.
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