THERE ARE OPPORTUNITIES for fine-tuning nutrient management practices and capitalizing on fertilization practices during the fall months. The Potash & Phosphate Institute (PPI) offers a series of seven new, seasonal articles that can help in decision-making. Prepared by PPI Regional Directors in North America, these topics are offered as PDF files which can be printed or adapted for further use. Here’s a summary of what’s available.

Crops

Fall and Spring Fertilizer Options for Corn
Dr. Tom Bruulsema, Dr. Bill Deen, and Mr. Greg Stewart
Fall zone tillage is one way to overcome some of the problems of no-till. It also opens up new fertilizer placement options. Getting some of the phosphorus and potassium application done in the fall helps streamline spring field operations.

Target Phosphorus this Fall
Dr. Scott Murrell
By targeting appropriate soil test phosphorus (P) levels and keeping a watchful eye on P budgets and soil test changes, farmers and their advisers can make the adjustments they need to come ever closer to optimizing their P inputs to meet management objectives.

Site-Specific Nutrient Interactions Provide New Opportunities
Dr. Harold F. Reetz, Jr.
Crop yield is the ultimate integrator of various factors involved in production. It is important to consider the interactions and influences various factors may have on others. When it comes to more intensive production, site-specific management is the best approach.

Nitrogen Price and Other Fertilization Considerations for the Fall
Dr. Mike Stewart
For fall-planting of winter wheat, nitrogen (N) is an important input. Studies show that neither the cost of N nor the price of wheat have a big impact on optimum fertilization rate. This article also lists some guidelines for considering when aglime application and fall fertilization are appropriate.

Forages

Forage Harvest as Hay and Silage Results in Huge Nutrient Removal
Dr. Cliff Snyder
The impact of hay and silage harvest on soil fertility resources is usually not fully appreciated. When the crop is harvested and removed from the field, it takes significant amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other nutrients with it. Continued harvest without replacement “mines” the soil of nutrients.

Fall Fertilization with Phosphorus and Potassium…Boost Forage Yield and Improve Stands
Dr. Rob Mikkelsen
Several benefits are possible with fall application of phosphorus and potassium for forages. Root vigor is boosted, cool season forages enter their prime production, and there is little need for concern with leaching, except on the sandiest soils.

Maintaining Northern Forage Productivity with Fertilization
Dr. Adrian Johnston
Successful management of perennial forages for hay and pasture requires attention to nutrient supply and stand composition. Fall is an ideal time to apply needed phosphorus and potassium for
forages.








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