The American site “Successful Farmer” presents a series of recommendations for producers to save on the use of fertilizers, so that they are less impacted by the increases that have been presented this year.
1. Test your terrain
Taking soil samples to find out how much fertility is left in the soil is more important than ever, says Oscar Ruiz, an agronomist at Waypoint Analytical Services.
2. Handle soil samples correctly
While it’s important to take accurate soil samples, it’s also important to handle the samples after they’ve been taken. Ideally, send soil samples to a lab the same day they are collected, says Ruiz Díaz. Otherwise, air dry them or refrigerate them at 40°F or lower, he advises.
3. Know what the soil lab tells you
It is necessary to be familiar with the interpretation of the results and to have the advice of a professional to follow the recommendations of the studies, in order to then make the appropriate decisions for the culture.
4. Keep in mind that soil phosphorus and potassium numbers are not perfect
A common misconception is that soil test results are 100% accurate. That’s not always the case, says Slaton.
“Soil’s P and K numbers are simply an indication of availability, and not the absolute truth,” he says. “They are an indicator of availability at the sampled depth, but there are nutrients available below that depth. I think, in many cases, we underestimate the amount of nutrients a soil can provide to the crop.”
5. Invest in starter fertilizer
If you’re not in the habit of applying starter fertilizer when you plant corn, 2023 could be the year you pay off big. Dan Quinn, an agronomist at Purdue University Extension, cites research showing corn yields increased an average of 5.2 percent when starting fertilizer mixes including N, P, and K were used.
6. Consider applying 2x2x2 fertilizer
The practice called 2×2×2 is gaining ground. Farmers who outfit planters accordingly add two bands of fertilizer to their crop of corn at planting time, each band 2 inches deep and 2 inches on each side of the row.
Source: https://www.agriculture.com/crops/fertilizers/strengthening-your-weed-control-can-help-save-your-fertilizer-investment
