Influence the Outcome of Your Crops
Posted on September 11, 2017
As fall approaches and harvest comes and goes, discussions will turn to the upcoming planting season. In our conversations with our dealers, they state growers are more engaged than ever in wanting to increase their profit potential, mitigate their risk, and protect their investment.
How can I Achieve these Goals and Influence My Crops?
We suggest starting with a balanced fertility program. By providing the right nutrients at the right time, you will help to ensure your crops have the nutrients needed to get off to a great start and maximize the genetic potential of your seeds.
How do I Craft a Balanced Fertility Program?
The first place to begin is with soil testing. Stay on a schedule that checks every field at least once every three years. Sample more often if nutrients are at or below critical levels. Soil samples can be pulled as soon as the combine leaves the field. Phosphorus, potassium and zinc should be monitored closely for corn and silage production. Add in manganese tests for soybeans.
Think About Typical Planting and Growing Conditions
If there is a chance you will plant into cool, wet soils then using a liquid starter fertilizer at planting may prove beneficial. Using a PureGrade® low-salt starter like Season Pass® with AVAIL® or GoldStart® provides an immediate supply of nutrients to overcome slow growth and stunting caused by cold soils, harsh weather, and poor soil conditions. PureGrade fertilizers also have lower viscosities than conventional fertilizers like 10-34-0. This means they flow and pump more easily than other liquid fertilizers, especially in cooler temperatures. Additionally, PureGrade liquid fertilizers overwinter well and have a longer shelf life compared to conventional fertilizers.
Don’t Overlook the Power of MicroSolutions® Micronutrients
PureGrade products like Season Pass with AVAIL, Season Pass Plus with AVAIL, and First Pass® already include micronutrients in the formulations. However, if you choose to start with a product like Diamond 9-18-9, GoldStart 6-24-6, or Premium 7-24-3, consider adding a micronutrient mix like Corn Mix, Soybean Mix, or Wheat Mix. If you need a more custom mix, MicroSolutions offers a variety of zinc, copper, iron, and other micronutrients that are compatible with different types of fertilizers and are easy to handle.
If your planting conditions are usually fair, you should still consider using a low-salt starter with micronutrients at planting to reduce fertilizer tie-up, increase nutrient availability, and produce drier grain at harvest.
Finally, discuss your yield goals with your local dealer of The Andersons Plant Nutrient products. Your dealer will take your soil tests, typical planting conditions, and yield goals to help you formulate a fertility program that will allow for you to positively influence the outcome of your crop.
Visit Us at an Upcoming Tradeshow
Wichita Farm & Ranch
Park City, KS
November 7-9, 2017
Michigan's Upper Peninsula Vegetable and Potato Show
Escanaba, MI
November 8, 2017
Gateway Farm Expo
Kearney, NE
November 15-16, 2017
McCook Farm & Ranch Show
McCook, NE, Red Willow Cty Fairgrounds
November 15-16, 2017
So Illinois Fertilizer & Pesticide Conference
Mt Vernon, IL
November 22, 2017
The Northern Ag Expo
Fargo, ND
November 28-29, 2017
Amarillo Farm Show
Amarillo, TX, Civic Center
November 28-30, 2017
ARA Conference
Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix
November 28-30, 2017
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Please complete the form, and we’ll get you in touch with your Territory Manager from The Andersons.
