Fields & Inputs
Efficiency Over Excess
Managing Fertilizer & Fuel Costs as Uncertainty Grows
By Steve Sniff
Farmers have always had a love / hate relationship with the weather and the cost of doing business. That volatile relationship has been exacerbated in recent years by unpredictable weather, bordering on the bizarre, as well as tariffs and other costs that are just as unstable. Using time and money wisely is more crucial than ever. In this article, we will offer some practical steps to stretch already tight input budgets as well as tips on how to use the latest in precision tools and to use them more effectively. Let’ s start with fertilizer.
Maximum Yield to Maximum Efficiency
The last few years have required a mind shift. Whereas“ maximum yield” had been the prime target for managing fertilizer for generations, the catchphrase now is“ maximum efficiency” because there is little or no wiggle room any longer. In order to accomplish maximum efficiency and boost return on investment( ROI), the following strategies have proved quite beneficial.
Conduct regular soil testing: Reduce unnecessary applications by conducting regular soil sampling to determine actual needs.
Try split applications: Rather than applying fertilizers all at once at the beginning of the growing season, split the applications up into smaller, targeted doses throughout the season, thereby reducing nitrogen loss through leaching and volatilization.
Use VRA technologies: Instead of applying fertilizer at a standard rate, use the variable rate application( VRA) method according to soil variability.
Employ nutrient management: Increase nutrient efficiency of crops by employing stabilizers, inhibitors and slow-release fertilizers.
Improve nutrient retention: Use of cover crops and no-till practices will boost organic matter and lead to overall soil health improvement.
Managing Fertilizer Costs
There is little room for making anything but wise decisions
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