Spring 2008

Higher fertilizer prices and short supplies have many farmers and advisers concerned about getting enough fertilizer and being able to afford what is available. There are no silver bullets to solve this problem. A sound strategy is to remember the basics of fertilization: soil test, concern yourself with macronutrients and soil pH first, then micronutrients, and band nutrients to maximize effectiveness if they are applied at lower rates. Don't forget that there are many under-utilized tools out there: the PSNT test, the soil nitrate test, the stalk nitrate test, and the chlorophyll meter. Familiarize yourself with these tools and give them a try if you have never used them. Who knows? They may be a fit for your situation.