Jan 11/08 :: Strategies for re-allocation of fertilizer $$ in 2008

Fertilizer prices have increased dramatically since the fall of 2007. But on a positive note we continue to expect strong crop prices for several years.

Commonly, the initial response to high fertilizer prices is to reduce application rates of nitrogen. In most cases this is a big mistake. Nitrogen is the fuel that powers the yield engine. There are many other things we can do to better allocate nutrient resources so we don’t compromise yield. Nitrogen is a relatively small component of the overall dollars spent on your crop.

Have you ever determined what it costs you to produce each crop unit (unit cost of production)? It is time well spent. If you break down all the cost associated with producing that bushel of grain then you can determine how to maximize your limited crop input dollars.

Some specific strategies for determining where best to put your dollars are:

1. Soil testing and solid agronomic advice. The price of a soil sample is significantly cheaper than putting a few pounds too much nitrogen on per acre.
2. Focus on phosphorus. It is very expensive, and the least efficient macronutrient you apply. Check your sample, some fields may not require much P. Remember placement is very important to increase efficiency.
3. Consider other nitrogen sources, there is more than just 46-0-0 out there.
4. Sample some fields to 24” to determine nutrient movement. Grow high N using crops on your higher N fields.
5. Utilize manure more efficiently. Move it further if needed.

These are just a few thoughts growers can consider when determining how to re-allocate their fertilizer dollars this spring.

Terry Bonertz, Agricoach