As fertilizer prices reach near record levels, positioning the correct nutrients for optimum root uptake is more crucial than ever. Knowing the what and where of your fertility requirements will take you to the next level of higher yields!

The first step is to run a complete analysis of your soil. When I say “complete analysis” I mean a test that identifies N, P, K, cation exchange capacity (CEC), percent organic matter (OM), soil pH, base saturation, as well as micronutrients. The all too common soil sample consists of only the basic N, P, K, and maybe soil pH at best. While these measurements still remain key to achieving higher yields, the less familiar macro and micronutrients are equally as important. With a complete soil test you will know exactly how to fix troubled spots. With fertilizer prices at incredibly high levels, you don’t need to waste money on fertilizer you don’t need. Spend your dollars wisely with the guidance of a complete soil test.

Placement of this fertilizer is also ultra-critical. If your fertilizer is where your roots will be, and there when they need it, you will have done your job. Since deep tillage, especially zone tillage, is becoming more popular in the upper Midwest, I’ve gotten many questions about fertility in such a system. Zone tillage has many benefits. One of the main focuses is breaking through compaction layers, promoting deeper root penetration, along with improved water infiltration. As zones are built and deeper roots are achieved, the need for deep fertility becomes more evident. Deeper roots along with marginal to low fertility might lead to limited success, at least in the short-term. However, when your upper soil dries out mid-summer, your deep roots can bring up both water and nutrients that your crop desperately needs. Plus, deep placement of nutrients is essential for maximum water efficiency, since plants will continue to consume moisture until adequate nutrient levels are reached. It is for this reason deep soil sampling becomes a very important step to reaching higher yield levels. An ideal sample of your soil should consist of a 0-6” sample and a 6-24” sample. To go a step further, at least in a few spots in your fields, sample 6-12”, 12-18”, and 18-24”. Deep soil sampling often tells the story of how quickly deep tillage will pay dividends. For a quicker return on investment and maximizing your yield potential, deep fertility is a MUST.

Don’t get down about higher fertilizer prices. By knowing what to use and where to place it, you can get more out of your fertility program at a lower cost.