Phosphorus (P) fertilizer is often added to cropping systems to increase yield, but growers should not overlook the importance of micronutrients like Zinc (Zn). Understanding some of the nutrient interactions that affect nutrient availability can help with management decisions like fertilizer source.
Magnesium (Mg) is one of three secondary macronutrients, along with calcium and sulfur, required for balanced crop nutrition. Often overlooked, Mg deficiencies can lead to reduced crop growth and yield.
In the mid-1970s, Dr. Robert Westerman banded 18-46-0 with wheat at planting in a low-pH soil near Haskell, Oklahoma. The impact was immediately evident. Soon after, Oklahoma State University published an extension brochure titled “Banding Phosphate in Wheat: A Temporary Alternative to Liming” (Figure 1). This method was a temporary solution for the significant amount of Oklahoma winter wheat that was either too far from a reliable lime source or under a short-term-lease contract.
It’s important that producers not overreact to lower crop prices for wheat by cutting back this fall on phosphate fertilizer if it is needed. Wheat is a highly responsive crop to phosphate fertilizers. At low soil test levels, good profits can be made by using the right rate of phosphorus applied at the right time and in the right manner.
Whether you are growing wheat, canola or corn, you can set the stage for a healthy growing season and maximum yield with early-season treatments and starter fertilizer.
Record yields equal record removal of nutrients and should indicate a need for record soil nutrient replenishment.
Researchers strive to refine double-crop systems for top-profit production. Year- round land use allows soil protection during winter months, recapture of some previous crop-use nutrients, improved cash flow, added market opportunities, improved use of labor and equipment, and more.
Managing nitrogen nutrition makes a big contribution to the yield and quality of winter wheat. Choosing the right source, rate, time and place of nitrogen application improves not only your own profit, but also, food and nutrition security for people around the world.
High crop yields often come under scrutiny because of the fertilizer levels needed to produce such yields and because of the perception and reality of the potential environmental impacts of those inputs.
The cornerstone of profitable crop production is a sound soil fertility program. Such programs require forethought and planning. One of the most useful tools farmers can use in soil fertility planning is soil testing. Planning a fertility program without soil test data is largely guesswork. Other factors to consider in planning an efficient fertility program are fertilizer rates of application, placement and timing.
Corn Summaries