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IMPROVED fertilizer application technology is needed for subsurface applications in residue-covered conservation-tillage fields. The experimental applicator design proved to be adequate for field or plot scale usage over a range of soil and residue conditions. A smooth rolling coulter with rotary scrapers was used to cut residues and to open a soil slit. Modified backswept applicator knives caused less undesirable soil disturbance than vertical or forward curved knives. Replacement of the knife with a hydraulic nozzle shooting a solid stream of fertilizer solution made the least soil and residue disturbance and could be used in high soil moisture conditions which would prohibit the operation of any type of applicator knife.