Blog

Starting Strong with Starter Fertilizer

Posted on April 8, 2024April 8, 2024 by Liqui-Grow

Do you know how the weather will shake out this spring? We don’t either, but numerous research studies have shown average U.S. corn yields increase with the addition of a starter fertilizer. Here in the Midwest we are very used to seeing all four seasons in one week, sometimes in one day– as an insurance policy against all of the elements, starter fertilizer is a great addition to your spring plan. So what does starter fertilizer provide?

In this blog, we’ll learn about the importance of starter fertilizers by understanding starter basics, when to use starter fertilizer, and what to consider while using starters.

Understanding Starter Fertilizers

Starter fertilizer is a combination of nutrients applied to the crop at or around planting. Depending on the placement of the starter fertilizer, the nutrient application consists of phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, nitrogen and zinc. Starter fertilizer can be especially helpful in environments such as:

no-till or reduced-till soil
sandy soil
cool soil
soil with low organic matter
soil with low P, K & other soil minerals

As we continue to plant earlier in April, these soils are oftentimes colder than the crop needs for adequate nutrient uptake. Soil nutrients are slow to mineralize in cold soils, and starter fertilizers offer crops nutrients that may not be readily available in the soil during times of unseasonably cold weather or exceptionally early planting where nutrient movement and absorption is noticeably slower. By using a starter fertilizer early in the growth cycle, you can help ensure proper root development—which is essential for successful yields. Why? Because corn has little, itty-bitty roots that can’t always reach the nutrients present in the soil. By using starter fertilizer and placing it close to those roots, it helps the crop out while it is young. Kind of like a hearty breakfast early on can jumpstart your day, a strong starter fertilizer early on can jumpstart your corn crop! Even for well-producing fields, starter fertilizer can be advantageous for yields and as Dr. Jake states, “a cheap insurance policy” to hear what else Dr. Jake says about starter fertilizer check out this liqui-grow loop: https://youtu.be/yuRvWZ27oi4?si=F9DIc8Fvvgo1sr8r

Why Starter Fertilizers?

Root Development

After germination, corn kernels develop two root systems. The first set of roots developed are seminal roots, followed by nodal roots crucial for nutrient uptake. If nodal roots face stress, it can hinder nutrient absorption and overall plant growth. And when a plant’s health falls behind by two or more growth stages, it becomes very difficult for that plant to catch up, therefore hurting overall yields.

Rented Land Fertility

According to Iowa State University, about 60% of crop ground is rented land. While we know it’s possible to build soil fertility over time, short term leases can pose a risk for renting low-fertility fields, as tenants might not take as good of care of the farm as long term leases. This is another instance where starter fertilizer can bridge that gap, providing necessary nutrients for a relatively low cost with a more immediate return on investment. A great way to be aware of your soil fertility is through soil sampling– check out our last blog to learn more on soil sampling!

Starter Fertilizer Considerations

The goal of any fertilizer is to feed the crop and the yield. That being said, we always want to be conscious of seed injury. When talking about starter fertilizer, we specifically want to be aware of salt injury which means some nutrients have higher salt contents and if they come in contact with your seed corn, they will injure or kill the seed. It’s very important to know what products you are using and what placement you have available on your planter. Never hold this information back when working with an ag retailer, we don’t want to give you the wrong information because we didn’t know all the pieces to the puzzle.

6-24-6-.25 (Zn)

6-24-6-.25 (Zn) is a seed-safe in-furrow starter fertilizer with low salt content. With the recommended three to six gallon per acre application, salt injury is uncommon. As Dr. Jake says, this is the “crown jewel of starters and an extremely successful product of Liqui-Grow.”

4-10-10

For fields with significantly low phosphorus and potassium levels, 4-10-10 is another quality starter fertilizer option. This is an out-of-furrow fertilizer, allowing higher application rates without seed injury in the 10 to 20 gallon per acre range. Choosing a starter fertilizer can have many considerations, including soil health and even efficiency preferences—higher application rates will mean more stops to fill up.

18-3-3-3-.15 (Zn)

Another option to consider, especially for high phosphorus and potassium soils, is our 18-3-3-3-.15(Zn). This is a complete N, P, K, S, and Zn starter. Our 18-3-3-3 is an out-of-furrow fertilizer with application rates in the 15-30 gallon per acre range. This is a great option for continuous corn since it provides a readily available source of nitrogen, when we commonly see N tied up in residue.

Talk to your Liqui-Grow sales applicators to learn more about which starter fertilizer is right for you.

Prepare for Spring: Sampling, Mapping, Planning and More!

Posted on April 4, 2024April 4, 2024 by Liqui-Grow

Timing Matters

Consistency is key. Depending on your operation, you may sample soil in the fall or the spring. For the most accurate analysis, maintaining that timing is important. If you test in the fall, it is a good idea to continue to test in the fall. However, if there is a need to switch sampling seasons, spring can be advantageous.

Logistically, having the soil information in hand from a spring sampling gives you ample time to prepare for fall fertilizer applications. By using a spring sampling schedule, you are able to better capture the fertility needs as pricing and contracting become available throughout summer and fall months. Particularly if you're considering a variable rate strategy, this will allow you to build those VRT plans based off of soil fertility recommendations. The benefit to spring sampling is being able to plan better and make more informed decisions instead of the often rushed feeling we get when trying to sample in between harvest and fieldwork in the fall- not to mention throwing the possible rain event in there, as well!

It’s also important to know that previous crops, like corn, can also leave residue which will continue to deposit potassium into the soil over the winter. This can change your potassium levels from fall to spring and therefore would change the soil analysis over the winter, as well. This is also a good reminder that once you establish a spring sample cycle, maintain it.

Optimizing Insights

Soil sampling is a fantastic tool to understand your soil health. One specific way to sample soil is with a grid sampling approach. This approach essentially looks at a field and makes a map of that field based on a specific grid. This can be anywhere from 10-acre grid plots down to 1-acre plots, but, most commonly, grid sampling looks at 2.5-acre plots.

For example, a sample is taken from each 2.5-acre grid section of your field, and upon analysis, gives you a map overview of that field. This map shows a prediction of the strong and weak points of your field, allowing you to customize fertilizer application, targeting the areas that need it most. This can be especially beneficial in fields we have seen historic manure applications made. If we rely on 40 acre composite samples, we might hit a “hot spot” that would cause a misrepresentation of that field’s overall actual soil fertility. Ask your Liqui-Grow Sales Applicator for more information on this!

While certain soil health components, like pH, may not change drastically from one grid square to the next, nutrients like phosphorus and potassium can. And unless you grid sample, you won’t know if you need variable rate application.

Think of grid sampling like the saying, “You’re only as strong as your weakest link.” Grid sampling allows you to identify the weakest links.

There are many other ways to “skin this cat”, and if you are interested in soil sampling options, and what will benefit your farming operation the most, please reach out to our Liqui-Gow Sales Applicators.

Cost-Effective and Efficient

The fastest way to improve yields and return on investment from your crop is to know your soils across the farm. Variable Rate Application, or VRT, will essentially allow you to do this. We already know that grid sampling gives you a map that pinpoints areas that may need some added nutrients. Using that data, and a few other layers of information, we can create a variable rate fertilizer strategy to meet those fertility needs and improve the farm profitability.

Most of the time, variable rate can be much more cost-effective because you are applying nutrients where you need them, rather than a blanket application across every acre. You have more specific data to create a better fertilizer plan and you have a more specific application process; you’re not buying based on unknowns.

While this may be a more in-depth process compared to other sampling and application methods, the return on investment with this individualized practice is worth it, in most cases.

Partner with the Experts

Soil sampling, in any form, is a tool designed to help you make the best decisions to improve your yields. In terms of soil sampling, Dr. Jake encourages farmers to ask themselves: “Does this make sense for this field and for my operation?”

Dr. Jake put this video together on soil sampling, if you have more questions, check it out!
Soil Sampling – Grid Samples vs. Composite Samples. Which is Better?

With so many tools available, and so many details concerning individual field needs, the Liqui-Grow team is ready to help you make the best choice for your farm. Contact your local Liqui-Grow Sales Applicator to start the sampling process in your fields!

Unlocking the Power of Zinc

Posted on March 19, 2024 by Liqui-Grow

Zinc Deficiency

Zinc deficiency is a very common problem across the globe in agriculture. It can be caused by low levels of Zn present in the soil profile, an imbalanced fertilizer program, or even other nutrients, such as phosphorus. We know zinc is important, but what happens without it?

Because of its role in plant growth, signs of zinc deficiency include minimal new leaf growth, small leaf growth, curled or cupped leaves, discoloration of leaves, stunted stalk growth and overall lower yield and quality.
Without zinc, crops are also more susceptible to damage from temperature changes, including cold and drought conditions. Particularly in cold temperatures where mineralization within the soil slows down, crops can take up less zinc from the ground. This is especially important to consider in terms of shallow, sandy soil composition where soil cools dramatically quicker than denser soil. So as we continue to push the limits and plant earlier in the springtime, zinc deficiencies are showing up more frequently in field conditions.

The Impact of Phosphorus on Zinc

Another important factor concerning zinc is its relationship with other nutrients. Phosphorus, another vital crop nutrient, can actually tie up zinc, if not properly balanced. This imbalance can cause harm to the plant and lower yields. Phosphorus isn’t bad, we just need to make sure we use the right ratios when using it in starters to maximize the yield benefits of starter fertilizers.

In the chart below, Dr. Jake shares how several studies have indicated that applying phosphorus starter fertilizer without zinc can actually lower crop yields.

In fact, Dr. Jake saw yields increase by five to seven bushels per acre when zinc is applied. Traditional phosphorus fertilizer can actually prevent zinc uptake, therefore doing more harm than good for the plant. This is why adding zinc is crucial to starter fertilizer application.

A well-formulated fertilizer will include zinc at a concentration level that can mitigate phosphorus interaction and produce strong, healthy crops. To learn more, or check and see if your starter fertilizer program is balanced, reach out to a Liqui-Grow Sales Applicator! We are here to help!

Maintaining Zinc

Now that we’ve established zinc’s importance in crop development and yield optimization, let’s talk about how to maintain zinc levels.

Your soil composition greatly impacts your need for zinc and affects your application strategy. As mentioned before, soil density and composition can impact zinc requirements. While temperature plays a role, conditions such as rocky or sandy soil are additional determining factors. Zinc occurs naturally in rocks, so even small rocks within the soil can be a source of zinc for crops (so don’t get too carried away when picking rocks in the field!). Being aware of soil health also means knowing when certain resources or nutrients have been depleted and will need to be replenished to maintain plant health.

All crops require zinc, but the amount differs based on the crop, where it is growing and the balanced fertilizer applied to it. Dr. Jake has pinpointed where corn responsiveness would be maximized in terms of zinc application, but other crop varieties will differ.

Be aware of the signs of deficiency and, in rare cases, toxicity. The ability to identify problems early on means you can properly address the issue and continue growing a strong, healthy and high-yielding crop. Zinc is especially vital during the early stages of plant growth, so be proactive and scout early to set your fields up for success.

Unlock the Next Level of Your Production

Posted on January 26, 2024January 26, 2024 by Liqui-Grow

Looking for something to help make winter go by a little faster? How about taking a few hours to absorb the experience, knowledge and intellect of experts in the field - to get the most into and out of your fields.

Join the Liqui-Grow team of experts and some of our highly regarded colleagues in the industry on Tuesday, February 20, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (with lunch to follow) at the Quad Cities Waterfront Convention Center. We’ll have a morning of learning and networking at the L.E.A.D. Academy Winter Series. This in-person event will showcase industry experts to cover the latest in agronomy, crop and nutrient management and production strategies.

The Information You Will Gain

Seed Varieties to Achieve Top Yields

What does it take to get that box of seed to your farm? How do we get those lines ready for your planting? Our seed and innovation departments will share upcoming 2024 information with our customer base.

Profitable Grain Marketing Trends You Can’t Ignore!

Store and ignore or market and sell? Grain marketing decisions are a constant challenge for farmers. That's why we're bringing in Curt Strubhar, commercial merchandising consultant and chairman of Advance Trading, Inc., to share insights from his decades of experience in risk management to help you make profitable decisions this season.

How Ethanol is Paving the Future for Profitable Corn Production

Join our Ethanol Tax Incentive breakout to hear experts Dr. Bert Bock and Dave Miller talk about SAF incentives and policy coming down the pipeline. Hear how your farming operation can benefit from SAF and ask the panel questions during an exclusive Q & A.

2024 Crop Input Highlights

Dr. Jake Vossenkemper will be revisiting his 2023 research and sharing what products he saw consistent increased yields and plant health. These are products available to you as farmers to use in the 2024 season! Plus, hear what’s on his radar for the near future and products you could be using and trying on your farms.

The Micronutrients You Didn’t Know Your Crops Needed

We hear about nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium all the time, but what about the other nutrients needed to grow a healthy crop? Dr. Jake will share why we need more nutrients these days, and why our crops are benefiting from the additional fertilizers.

Besides gaining a breadth of knowledge from our industry experts, and being able to chat it up with them and other growers, we have some great giveaways—including a shop fridge. So call a buddy and register today for this FREE event! Seating is limited, so don’t wait, and we’ll see you there!

Click here to Register

The Story Behind Sulfur: Why nutrient deficiencies are becoming more common

Posted on January 25, 2024January 25, 2024 by Liqui-Grow

You hear about N, P and K often, but those aren’t the only essential nutrients you need to grow a healthy crop. Sulfur is the nutrient behind most service calls Dr. Jake receives each year.

First, it’s important to understand sulfur’s function in the plant. Here are the highlights:

Sulfur plays an important role in protein synthesis, which is at the root of nearly all plant development, no pun intended.
Sulfur is heavily involved in chlorophyll production, which is key for photosynthesis. Remember photosynthesis is the process of converting sunlight into energy the plant can use.
Because of its enzyme formation abilities, sulfur works in harmony with other biochemical reactions in the plant, such as nitrogen metabolism. What we’re saying is there is a synergistic relationship between nitrogen and sulfur.
As with most nutrients, sulfur improves nutrient uptake, plant structure, disease resistance and crop yield and quality, basically the plant needs it to function.

But if sulfur is so important, why are there such frequent deficiencies? Dr. Jake believes there are a couple reasons.

First, corn yields have increased dramatically since the 1950s—and with increased yields comes an increased nutrient requirement, depleting fields of their sulfur. Think of your high school kids and how much they eat because they are growing. We need to feed these plants what they really require.

Second, the 1970s Clean Air Act mandated reduced sulfur dioxide in the atmosphere, the primary source of sulfur for crops. For comparison, in 1986, an average of 15 pounds per acre of atmospheric sulfate deposition was common. In 2021, that level dropped to just three pounds per acre, leaving a significant gap in nutrition. These two primary factors have instigated in many the search for a new sulfur source with a large quantity to support plant growth.

Diagnosing Deficiency

A sulfur deficiency is not as easy to detect as one might expect. In corn and depending on what growth stage the crop is, it can imitate nitrogen or even manganese or magnesium deficiencies.

The primary sign to keep an eye out for is lighter green or yellowing tops of plants. Nitrogen deficiency causes plants to yellow from the base of the crop upward, whereas signs of sulfur deficiency start in the areas of new growth and move down.

But the real question is, “Can sulfur deficiency be corrected?”

Managing Sulfur Levels

In short, yes. Naturally, your first instinct when noticing a lack of sulfur may be to simply add more sulfur through a fertilizer application. While yes, this certainly helps, it may not be needed right away. Typically, soil mineralizes more sulfur as it warms, and with warmer soils to mineralize nutrients, the deficiency can resolve itself.

However, sulfur applications can have positive yield impacts, whether in the fall or spring. See Dr. Jake’s research findings below:

If you are considering a supplemental sulfur application, make sure you’re selecting the right source for your fields. Check out this Liqui-Grow Loop video or contact your Liqui-Grow Sales rep to understand the different types of sulfur and which perform best based on our research.

If the deficiency is resolved early enough, the crop may fully recover and see no yield loss. When deficiency reaches the V7-V8 stages, however, expect to see an impact during harvest. There is no 100% guarantee you will or will not see yield losses from sulfur deficiency, but these crop stage guidelines serve as a good rule of thumb.

Whether you're familiar with sulfur deficiencies or just curious about boosting your crops with this nutrient, there's a whole lot more to explore.

Watch our full breakdown from our 2023 L.E.A.D. Academy to find out more about sulfur, including how to monitor and manage this nutrient in soybeans, the yield changes Dr. Jake has observed from sulfur application and more.

Plus, register for our 2024 L.E.A.D. Academy Winter Series for an exclusive session on The Micronutrients You Didn’t Know Your Crop Needed.

Or check out these resources for more information:

2023: Year In Review

Posted on December 29, 2023December 22, 2023 by Liqui-Grow

Major Achievement: Launching ExactStrip

A major highlight of 2023 was doubling the number of acres we applied using ExactStrip, which was first offered in 2022. On top of that, Dr. Jake has completed his research of this technology and we’re satisfied with the results! We’ve heard positive feedback for this innovative solution ever since the initial launch and are looking forward to 2024.

“I was sort of a guinea pig for ExactStrip, and I’m glad I was! There was a phenomenal visual difference the entire season season and when it got to harvest there was considerably more yield with the ExactStrip application”

Internship Program Flourishes

Our commitment to nurturing talent continued through our internship program, which welcomed seven interns in 2023! These young minds brought fresh perspectives and helped drive our research and sales efforts, fostering a culture of innovation within Liqui-Grow. We’re proud to support the growth of young individuals interested in agriculture. In 2024 we’re making improvements to enhance the learning experience. Contact our Davenport office for information about a future internship.

Empowering Communities

Beyond the fields, Liqui-Grow continued its tradition of giving back to the communities we serve. Through sponsorships and donations, we empowered local initiatives and organizations, emphasizing our role not just as an agricultural company, but as a community-focused organization dedicated to the well-being of our small towns. Please contact the Davenport office for donation/sponsorship inquiries.

As we look back on 2023, Liqui-Grow takes pride in the strides made, the challenges overcome and the positive impact created. The year reaffirmed our commitment to excellence, innovation and community empowerment, setting the stage for even greater achievements in the years to come.

To learn more about Liqui-Grow our goals for 2024, text us at 564-220-2508 or email questions@liqui-grow.com.

How to Get the Best Pricing for 2024 Crop Inputs

Posted on December 26, 2023December 22, 2023 by Liqui-Grow

What’s new?

The supply chain for crop protection products took a major hit following the pandemic in 2020. Those issues lingered into 2021 and 2022, tightening available inventory and creating challenges for delivering secured product. Thankfully, 2023 held a better outcome and 2024 looks to continue on the upward trajectory for more products.

Let’s look at the forecast for product inventory:

- Glyphosate products like RoundUp are in great supply. This product has rebounded since 2020 and is even experiencing up to a 40% price reduction on certain products. Contact your Liqui-Grow sales representative to learn which products have the best prices.
- Post-emergence grass killers for corn and soybeans have a good supply and have seen a price reduction. These will be a great addition for growers trying to control volunteer corn in soybean fields. .
- For the first time since 2020, fungicides will be in good supply from Liqui-Grow. However, most of the inventory will be booked by February 15th as growers see the value in these products for overall plant health. We will be offering a significant discount during pre-pay season and encourage growers to place their order early to guarantee product availability.

Pre-emergence products for soybeans will have some product changes and we encourage you to ask your local Liqui-Grow sales representative what new products are best for your operation.

Pricing will likely still play a role in product selection this year, but the trends are looking favorable for growers, if you make your purchases during the pre-pay window.

Planning Ahead Pays

Each year, we encourage growers to consider new ways to increase yield and reduce input cost. The best way to accomplish that is by taking advantage of the best pricing window of the year.

At Liqui-Grow, we devote time to researching and securing the best products on the market to give our customers ample choices for their operation. In fact, that makes us different from most ag retailers. We don’t come to your farm with a preferred list of products - we provide the products that you ask for to meet your goals.

This personalized mindset is also the driving force behind our service lineup. Whether you want herbicides and fungicides custom applied on your operation or just need the products packaged and ready for pickup, we can support your crop protection needs.

We also offer “hot loads” for growers who use their own application equipment but need chemicals mixed at a moment’s notice. When you’re ready to load, give us a call and the mixture will be ready when you arrive!

But the bottom line when it comes to having a successful customer experience at Liqui-Grow is to take advantage of this pre-pay season to book the best products at the best price.

Buying now is truly the only guaranteed way to secure your product for next year. Plus, if the weather changes and you have to adjust your plan midway through the season, we’ll work with you to ensure you have the product you need for your crop.

Growers concerned about cashflow can also utilize Liqui-Grow financing options as long as you lock in your pricing by January 10th. Terms with all financing options have changed for the 2024 season, so consult your Liqui-Grow sales representative for the current rates and payment options.

For more questions around product options, availability or pricing, text us at 564-220-2508 or email questions@liqui-grow.com.

What 2024 Tax Changes Could Mean for Your Operation

Posted on December 22, 2023 by Liqui-Grow

Running a profitable farming venture requires more than reducing input costs and increasing yields. In today’s economy, you also have to manage taxes, payroll and countless other financial variables that dictate your bottom line.

With December 31st knocking on our door, we want to provide our customers with some key insights regarding upcoming tax changes and how they could impact your operation. We met with Dustin Kimball, CPA, to discuss the most pressing issues around tax laws and financial planning for your operation.

A Researcher’s Reward: 2023 Research Plot Results

Posted on December 21, 2023December 21, 2023 by Liqui-Grow

Fertilizer Distance Study

We launched our multi-location fertilizer distance study three years ago in preparation for the launch of ExactStrip application. Now, after testing more than 800 plots at 10 locations across three seasons, Dr. Jake is excited to share his findings.

ExactStrip shares RTK guidance lines from the floater to the farmer’s planter, tractor or strip till machine in order to plant as close as possible to the fertilizer bands. Much like a teenager being close to a refrigerator, the closer the plant’s roots are to the fertilizer, the more nutrients the plant will consume.

Dr. Jake tested ExactStrip fertilizer application against broadcast application and a check plot with no fertilizer applied. Each ExactStrip application included a 30” band of full-rate fertilizer, and distances tested ranged from 0” to 15”.

Traditional liquid fertilizer applications tend to occur between 6” and 9” of the planted row—a range that yielded a 2 to 3 bushels per acre increase over broadcast application and 12 to 14 bushels per acre more than the untreated plot in our study.

With ExactStrip, we are able to place fertilizer within 3” of the row—providing a 5 to 8 bushels per acre yield advantage over broadcast application and 16 to 18 bushels per acre over untreated.

This yield increase proves the value of precision application for maximum crop performance. We are excited for Liqui-Grow customers to continue seeing these results on your own farms.

If your farm equipment is up to date with RTK capabilities, reach out to your local Liqui-Grow sales representative and ask them about our distance study and ExactStrip technology.

In-Furrow Additives on Corn

Dr. Jake has been studying biological and non-traditional products for corn for the past six years. Through this extensive research, two products stand out.

Micro-AZ and AvailT5 show consistent yield improvements of more than 4 bushels per acre across the 20+ plots tested. Dr. Jake strongly recommends these products for an affordable and reliable yield boost in corn.

Micro-AZ In-Furrow Starter

Micro-AZ caught Dr. Jake’s attention because the formulation centered around azospirillum brasilense—a well-researched bacteria that causes significant increases in corn root hairs, which improves nutrient uptake and leads to consistent yield increases.

AvailT5 Additive

AvailT5 is a phosphorus enhancement product that is a valuable additive for any field, particularly ones with pH above 7 or below 5.5 and/or low phosphorus levels.

Dr. Jake compiled 140 side by side comparisons across 8 sites, and the results show that AvailT5 is effective whether applied in–furrow or with fall suspension fertilizer. According to his research, AvailT5 yields an average return on investment of $13 per acre.

Next, Dr. Jake wanted to compare the impact of AvailT5 on various soil types. When you look at the locations with the ideal conditions for AvailT5 to make the biggest impact, you can see the average yield increase from 4 to 9 bushels per acre, bringing in a $38 per acre return on investment.

Using this knowledge, we’ve come up with an innovative solution to maximize the impact of your investment. By using grid samples to identify areas of the field with high/low pH and low phosphorus levels, we’re able to inject AvailT5 exactly where your fields need it, and skip the areas that don’t.

This is an application method that can benefit any farmer. Talk to your local Liqui-Grow sales representative to take advantage of AvailT5.

New In-Furrow Additives

While we recognize and appreciate the reliability and consistency of Micro-AZ and AvailT5, we also embrace cutting-edge technology and new products on the market.

This year, Dr. Jake conducted studies involving Maneuver, Utrisha P and Fosters + Pmax. The initial results all show strong performance, but we have smaller amounts of data on these products. Dr. Jake is eager to continue studying their impact on crop yields and gathering more data to help farmers make informed decisions.

Starter Fertilizer with Zinc

For his last research update, Dr. Jake shared insights from a study focused on the presence of zinc in starter fertilizers. This research revealed the shocking conclusion that applying starter fertilizer without zinc actually lowers crop yields.

This is because traditional phosphorus fertilizer ties up zinc in the soil, ultimately doing more harm than good for the plant. For a starter fertilizer to truly benefit your crop, it needs to be a well-balanced formulation.

From concluding long-term studies to just beginning new ones, this fall’s L.E.A.D. Academy webinar set the stage for another productive year of unveiling new agronomic insights in 2024.

Want to learn more about Dr. Jake’s research? Text us at 564-220-2508 or email questions@liqui-grow.com.

The Truth About Phosphorus for Crop Nutrition & Soil Health

Posted on December 4, 2023December 4, 2023 by Liqui-Grow

The Importance of Phosphorus

Ever wonder why some fields are impacted by drought more than others? It could be the result of low phosphorus levels in the soil.

Phosphorus is a key contributor to plant and root development, along with nutrient uptake. From a technical standpoint, phosphorus is a fundamental element of a plant’s DNA and RNA structure, and a key component of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is the primary energy currency for a plant. This means phosphorus is responsible for helping a plant grow, develop and maintain energy throughout its life cycle.

As far as the drought conditions are concerned, when plants are already stressed and struggling to retain nutrients, it’s pretty obvious that low phosphorus levels in a field will have a negative impact on plant performance.

Signs of Phosphorus Deficiencies

Phosphorus deficiencies can be harder to identify than other nutrients, mainly because they can often look the same as harsh environmental conditions. But don’t worry, if you think you’re seeing something, call your Local Liqui-Grow Sales Applicator to get expert guidance in identifying those deficiencies.

The main symptoms of phosphorus deficiencies are stunted plants or purplish leaves. It’s important to know what hybrids you have in your field, as some plants have natural characteristics that may resemble a phosphorus deficiency.

Once plants have a bold blue or purple hue to them, though, recovery can be difficult. Thus, we recommend growers take a proactive approach to nutrient management to avoid potential issues.

Learn more about phosphorus management in this video to determine if your field has sufficient resources available or needs intensive application.

Maintaining Phosphorus Levels

Overall, the basics of phosphorus management haven’t changed. Soil naturally has very small amounts of phosphorus in a plant-available form. But phosphorus is usually in mineral and organic forms that must go through a long process of weathering and microbial degradation before they become plant-available. Thus, phosphorus applications are often necessary to maintain adequate phosphorus levels.

Speaking of adequate levels, as new technologies emerge and advanced hybrids are developed, new phosphorus recommendations are coming into play. In 2023, Iowa State University updated their nutrient recommendations to meet the demands of production. See how your soil compares to these new standards here.

Once phosphorus is applied, the soil does a great job of retaining it. When growers apply phosphorus in a liquid form, it is more readily available to the plant and isn’t bound up by other nutrients, like calcium, iron and aluminum. Liqui-Grow’s extensive testing and research has shown that using a balanced fertilizer approach and applying phosphorus at the same time as potassium and other micronutrients provides the best results for your crop’s performance. Using a phosphorus stabilizing product like Avail T5 further protects your nutrients and helps your fertilizer investment pay off even faster.

To learn more about the technology available for phosphorus applications, watch this Liqui Grow Loop video and contact your local Liqui-Grow sales rep to create a customized nutrient management plan for your operation. Text us at 564-220-2508 or email questions@liqui-grow.com today.

Blog

Understanding Starter Fertilizers

Why Starter Fertilizers?

Root Development

Rented Land Fertility

Starter Fertilizer Considerations

6-24-6-.25 (Zn)

4-10-10

18-3-3-3-.15 (Zn)

To Conclude

Questions? Give us a shout!

Timing Matters

Optimizing Insights

Cost-Effective and Efficient

Partner with the Experts

Questions? Give us a shout!

The Importance of Zinc

Zinc Deficiency

The Impact of Phosphorus on Zinc

Maintaining Zinc

What to Expect

The Information You Will Gain

Seed Varieties to Achieve Top Yields

Profitable Grain Marketing Trends You Can’t Ignore!

How Ethanol is Paving the Future for Profitable Corn Production

2024 Crop Input Highlights

The Micronutrients You Didn’t Know Your Crops Needed