Yara's Crop Nutrition podcast (Yara)

This is the third episode in a series that will help us understand soil analysis and how it can be beneficial as you create a complete nutrition plan. In this episode, we talk about how to select a lab, what types of tests a lab can run, and what you should know about the process that might help with the interpretation. It might be beneficial to listen to the previous episodes:

1. Is There Value in Soil Analysis
2. What You Need To Know When You Are Taking Soil Samples

Check out this 2:00-minute VIDEO that shows what happens when your soil samples arrive at the lab.

Here are a couple of organizations that make sure labs are proficient in their protocols and a list of labs that have been certified:

• NAPT North American Proficiency Testing Program
• ALP Agricultural Laboratory Proficiency Program

If you have any questions or want to learn more, please visit Yara US or Yara Canada

If you have any comments or suggestions, please feel free to leave a comment

Irrigation is crucial in optimizing crop growth, nutrient uptake, soil health, and overall plant health.

Part two of a two-part episode discusses the agronomic benefits of adopting efficient irrigation practices. We are joined by irrigation experts Guillermo Valenzuela, VP of Sales and Marketing at WiseConn, and Craig Hornung, Director of Technical Services at AC-Foods, to discuss the vital role of water management in agriculture.

In the previous episode, we explored the agronomic value of proper irrigation.

Boron (B) is the first micronutrient that we will be discussing over the next weeks.  It is critical to the growth and health of crops.  It can be considered a "sister" nutrient to Ca because it is a component of plant cell walls and membranes.  Dr. Steve explains that recent research has shown that B aids in Ca uptake and visa versa.

If you want to learn more about Boron please visit our web pages:

www.yara.us

www.yaracanada.ca

Fall and Spring Nutrition is critical for plants to prepare for the colder temperatures and the upcoming season. Applying the right form of Nitrogen and Calcium have been proven to help soil quality and overall balanced nutrition:

Advantages of Nitrate-N

• Does not volatilize
• Does not contribute to soil acidity
• Is immediately available to crops
• Promotes balanced nutrition

Advantages of Calcium

• Improves soil quality
• Reduces environmental stresses
• Reduces physiological disorders
• Reduces crop diseases

In our last podcast, we looked back in history with a couple Ag Leaders, Dr. Bill Easterwood and Dr. Steve Petrie. In this episode, we speak with Brian Kenyon, VP of Innovation and Sustainable Solutions. How can we move from short-term to long-term profit through innovation and a circular economy? Brian give us his top innovations that can lead us to a nature possitive food future.

Brian Kenyon retired at the end of 2022 after 14 years with Yara where he has held many roles from product and market development to commercial, to his last role as VP of Innovation and Sustainable Solutions. His perspective and experience give him a wholistic view of agriculture into the future. 

Brian mentioned Paul Pulman’s book Net Positive: How Courageous Companies Thrive by Giving More than They Take. 

Check out this article on Yara's leadership in Green Ammonia.

Peter DeBoer, the Sales Agronomist at Yara International, and recurring guest Steve Petrie sit down with your host Scott Warr to discuss almond tree nutrition. They discuss things a grower in California needs to be aware of, how to ensure your almond trees are receiving the right amount of nutrients, and Yara’s my almonds crop nutrition program.

Key Takeaways:

[1:05] California has roughly 1.3 million acres dedicated to the growth of almonds.

[2:15] How long do almond harvests last for?

[2:55] What do growers need to be aware of when it comes to almond nutrition?

[6:15] Steve explains why it’s so important to strengthen the cells in an almond tree after harvest season.

[7:30] The nutrition the almond tree stores this fall will be used for next spring’s production.

[8:40] What happens if a grower decides to skimp on their nutrition program in the fall?

[9:35] What are the different types of nitrogen you can use and which one is best for this time of year?

[11:30] It’s really important that growers take a multifaceted approach to their post-harvest nutrition.

[14:10] Take both tissue samples and samples from the hulls where the almonds were removed from your trees to get an accurate nutrition analysis.

[15:50] What does Peter look for in a foliar nutrient application?

[16:55] What kind of products does Yara offer to almond growers?

[19:05] How can a grower get access to the my almonds newsletter?

[20:05] Peter shares his role at Yara and how you can get in touch with him.

[21:10] Steve shares some final thoughts on things you need to be aware for almonds this time of year.

[23:00] Right now, does it look like it’s going to be a big year for almonds?

Mentioned in This Episode:

Yara.com

Yara.us/crop-nutrition/almond/myalmonds/

Steve on LinkedIn

Peter on LinkedIn

We’re back with a deeper dive in turf nutrition! Neil Mayberry is the Crop Manager for Turf and Ornamental and Brian Grill and Cole McNally are both the Sales Agronomists for Turf and Ornamental at YARA. We also have special guest Dr. Bryan Unruh, Professor of Environmental Horticulture and Associate Center Director at the University of Florida. Today’s show does a deep dive into turf nutrition, what it takes to keep it healthy during the winter months, the biggest mistakes turf managers make with their turf, and so much more!

Key Takeaways:

[1:15] Neil is with Dr. Bryan Unruh today and explains a little bit about Dr. Unruh’s background.

[1:50] What does Neil mean by ‘good roots’?

[2:20] How does someone grow healthy roots?

[4:00] How can a sports turf manager identify whether the roots are growing well?

[5:55] Brian was a golf superintendent and explains what he was looking for in cup samples.

[7:15] What does Dr. Unruh look for in his turf samples?

[9:30] What are some of the biggest mistakes a superintendent or sports turf manager might make?

[15:55] What do sports managers need to know about their turf going into the winter months?

[17:55] What do turf growers need to take into consideration when growing turf?

[21:00] How does Cole manage the turf grasses in Florida?

[22:45] What kind of research is Dr. Unruh focused on right now?

[26:10] Neil shares some final thoughts on turf grass nutrition.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Yara.com

Yara.us/crop-nutrition/turf/

Neil on LinkedIn

Brian on Twitter

Cole on Twitter

Dr. Unruh on UFL

Here is a statement that I read on the internet recently, "...while fertilizers make crops grow better and faster, half of the fixed nitrogen we add is lost.  Imagine that--we lose the equivalent of 12 million nitrogen elephants (~165 billion pounds) every year"

Dr. Rob Mikkelsen, Yara's Director of Agronomic Services, helps us understand this statement and bust this myth.

Submit a comment, question or suggestion by visiting our podcast webpage

Dr. Steve Petrie discusses why we should add plant analysis to our tools for plant growth and financial optimization.  Soil testing is a predictive tool, while tissue analysis is a monitoring tool that helps us understand what the plant is actually using throughout the season. Using each can help us understand the biology of the plant and should not be used exclusive of each other.  In this first of two episodes on tissue analysis, we talk about the optimum timing and frequency of tissue analysis.

In part two of this Yara Crop Nutrition Podcast series, Dr. Rob Mikkelsen continues the exploration of root health, focusing on the role of key nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and micronutrients in supporting robust root systems.

He discusses how these nutrients enhance root architecture, density, and function, emphasizing the critical connection between healthy roots and improved plant productivity. Building on part one’s foundation of soil health and nutrient management, this episode highlights the interconnectedness of roots and shoots, stressing that neglecting root care can lead to diminished crop yields. Together, the episodes provide a guide for farmers and agronomists, combining soil science and agronomy to optimize crop nutrition, fertilizer efficiency, and sustainable farming practices. By addressing both the physical and nutritional needs of roots, the series underscores the importance of a balanced approach to maximize agricultural productivity and plant performance.

Should we be afraid of sythetic fertiilzers?  Are synthetic fertilizers bad for us?

Dr. Rob Mikkelsen, Yara's Director of Agronomic Services, helps us bust some myths about fertilizers and agronomy.  In this episode, Rob takes on the statement that mineral fertilizers are not natural.  There are many different categories/definitions of fertilizers: organic, natural, mineral, sythetic.  Rob helps us define and understand these terms and understand IF there is a danger with mineral fertilizers.

We're excited to announce the launch of their sixth incubator farm in North America near Livingston County, New York, focused on improving forage quality and environmental sustainability in dairy feed production. The farm is a 150-acre field separated into strips alternating between corn silage and alfalfa. The goal is to study different crop nutrition programs and their impact on forage quality. The farm also aims to explore the relationship between manure nutrients and Yara fertilizers, as well as the use of calcium nitrate on alfalfa. The project is part of Yara's vision of nature-positive dairy production and aligns with the dairy industry's goal of achieving zero emissions by 2050.  Emmaline Long, Agronomy Solutions Manager at Yara, will be leading our efforts at this incubator farm.

Scott Warr invites three expert guests on to today’s show to discuss potato crop nutrition. We have repeat guest Steve Petrie,  Director of Agronomic Services at Yara North America, joining us today, Jimmy Ridgway, Crop Nutrition Solution Brand Manager of TopPotato, and Shawn McIver, Regional Sales Manager for the Atlantic Canada Region. Our guests discuss the summer heat and how it affects potato crop, what growers can do to combat it, and how to ensure your potatoes are healthy and happy throughout the entire growing process.

Key Takeaways:

[2:45] It’s hot right now! How does the heat affect our potatoes?

[4:00] Where in the world do potatoes typically grow?

[4:50] Jimmy and Steve explain why the heat disrupts the growing process of potatoes.

[8:05] Is there a way we can mitigate the heat stress for our potatoes?

[11:50] What did potato growers do in the northeast during the summer heat before Yara’s products came into production?

[13:05] Steve explains the key roles that calcium and potassium play in crop nutrition.

[16:30] How do growers in the north west deal with potato heat stress?

[18:05] Jimmy shares some key takeaways he learned at the Potato Association of America conference he recently attended.

[19:55] Where can growers go to get more information about heat stress on their potatoes?

[20:30] How can your local agronomists help with your crops?

[21:15] What does this year’s harvest season look like? 

Mentioned in This Episode:

Yara.com

yaracanada.ca

Yara.us/crop-nutrition/potato/toppotato

Steve on LinkedIn

Jimmy on LinkedIn

Shawn on LinkedIn

On today’s show, Scott Warr is joined by Trey Cutts, the High Cotton Crop Manager, Christy Hicks, the Sales Agronomist, for YARA, and Garrett Dixon, a young cotton farmer. Cotton farms are an important part of our agriculture and today’s guests provide interesting insight into what it’s like tending to the cotton crop. Find out more about Yara’s High Cotton Solution as well in the links below!  

Key Takeaways:

[1:00] Why does Garrett refer to himself as a ‘young farmer’?

[2:55] Why is cotton an important crop to Yara?

[4:00] How has the cotton crop been doing so far this year?

[5:05] Garrett explains what his family’s farm land looked like before he decided to take it over and become a farmer.

[7:40] How does Yara’s High Cotton Solution help make cotton more profitable for growers?

[8:40] What is Garrett’s biggest lesson so far about farming?

[10:20] Christy shares some of the biggest wins she sees cotton growers having.

[11:05] What is the hardest nutrient to manage?

[12:55] Trey shares insight into what the biggest opportunity steps are for cotton.

[16:10] How did Christy get into this career?

[16:40] How did Garrett get into farming?

Mentioned in This Episode:

Yara.com

Yara.us/crop-nutrition/cotton

Trey on LinkedIn

Soil structure and health is critical growers to improve crop productivity and sustainability.  Dr. Karl Wyant, VP of Ag Science at Heliae Agriculture helps us understand the importance of soil health and quality in a two part series:

• Our first episode from Feb 23, 2021, “Don’t Treat Your Soil Like Dirt” delt with the physical and chemical components of soil
• This episode we talk about biological components

Karl shares five strategies that you may implement to improve your soil health which will lead to sustainable profitability.

We refer to Karl's articles in the Progressive Crop Consultant magazine, 

• Part 1: "Managing Soil and Structure Quality"published in the January/February 2021
• Part 2: “Managing Soil and Structure Quality” published in May 2021

To learn more from Karl, email him at info@heliae.com or visit Phycoterra's web site

Download the FREE Farm Water Advisor to help improve your irrigation efficiency.  Download it here

Soil pH is a fundamental characteristic of soil.  It should be the first factor to be considered when learning about a soil.  In this first of two podcasts on soil pH, Dr. Steve Petrie discusses what pH is, how it is measured, why it is important to healthy soils.

Dr. Rob Mikkelsen insists that good science rules the day.  We look at the statement that mineral fertilizers are poisoning the soil and reduce agricultural productivity and is food grown with mineral fertilizers are less nutritious.  He explains that an integrated nutrient management system to acheive the best results.

Dr. Rob helps us understand the chemistry, plant physiology and the science-based research in order for us to understand and bust these myths.  

Rob mentions the Rothamstead Research Center, one of the oldest agricultural research institutions in the world, having been founded in 1843.

If you have comments or suggestions on this episode or this podcast, please comment on our web site

Dr. Rob Mikkelsen recently attended the American Society of Agronomy Conference.
He reunited with many of his colleagues and we have the chance to bring two international influencers onto our podcast over the next couple weeks.

In this week's podcast, we delve into the heart of modern agriculture with Dr. Fernando Garcia, a renowned expert in soil fertility and crop nutrition. Dr. Garcia is a Free Professor at the College of Agricultural Sciences of the National University of Mar del Plata, Argentina, and a consultant for various agricultural organizations, shares his valuable insights into ecologically intensified cropping systems and their impact on global agriculture.  Some of the topics we covered are 

• The Four Pillars of Agriculture: no-till farming, crop rotation, cover crops, and balanced nutrition.
• Dr. Garcia’s perspective on how these pillars contribute to sustainable agriculture.
• Comparative Agriculture: Argentina vs. North America.  
• Dr. Garcia outlines key challenges in modern agriculture and discusses innovative approaches and technologies in addressing these challenges with an emphasis on the importance of adapting to climate change and environmental pressures.
• Exploration of programs and strategies used by Argentinian farmers and how these practices can be examples for farmers globally.
• The role of government and private sector in supporting these initiatives.

Make sure you check out next week's episode with Dr. John Ryan

OptimumTurf Crop Manager, Neil Mayberry, talks with Yara's Product Development Chemist, Laura Hathway, and Toby Goodroad, Market Development Director about the exciting new line of liquid fertilizers for Turf

2:15     Foliar applied fertilizers = precision nutrition

4:10     Yara’s history growing Optimum Turf

6:10     New OptimumTurf liquid line of products

11:00   Yara’s laboratory – designing, developing and manufacturing process

19:20   Differences / advantages of Yara’s OptimumTurf liquids

Our host Scott Warr, Steve Petrie, the Director of Agronomic Services at Yara International, Sebastian Korob, Crop Manager for YARA’s Primetomato, and Gary King, Senior Manager of Global Agricultural at Kraft Heinz, join us today on this week’s podcast. They discuss how to better manage your tomatoes during harvest season, some of the challenges of processing tomatoes, and dive into how growers can utilize and maximize their tomato yield throughout the year.

Key Takeaways:

[1:05] Sebastian does a quick recap on what Primetomato is.

[3:40] You don’t lose a lot of the nutrition on a tomato through the processing process.

[4:15] How long has Gary been in the tomato industry?

[5:00] What kind of changes has Gary seen over the years in the tomato industry?

[6:45] Gary discusses the types of trends that have happened over the years for processing tomatoes.

[9:00] Farmers have a much more progressive approach to farming and are constantly looking for ways to improve their crops.

[11:25] Sebastian shares some of his observations for this season’s tomato crop production.

[14:05] Farmers often focus too much on nitrogen first and think about the rest of the needed nutrients second. Steve believes you need to have a broad approach to nutrition.

[15:55] Gary shares his thoughts on nutrition programs.

[18:30] What are some of the things you need to be aware of when you’re preparing for harvest season?

[23:40] How can farmers better manage and maximize their nutrition programs without using up additional resources?

Mentioned in This Episode:

Yara.com

Yara.us/crop-nutrition/tomato

Sebastian on LinkedIn

Steve on LinkedIn

Gary on LinkedIn

In this episode of the Yara's Crop Nutrition Podcast, Scott and Dr. Rob Michelson discuss the Canadian government's mandate to reduce fertilizer-related greenhouse emissions by 30% by 2030. They are joined by Dr. Tom Bruulsema, the chief scientist at Plant Nutrition Canada, to delve into the evidence supporting the four R's of nutrient stewardship and their role in reducing emissions and improving nitrogen use efficiency. The conversation covers the importance of finding a balance between reducing emissions and maintaining high crop yields, the use of nitrification inhibitors to reduce nitrous oxide emissions, and the need to consider all four R's (rate, source, timing, and placement) in fertilizer management. Dr. Bruulsema highlights the economic benefits for farmers and the collaborative efforts between the government and industry to support the adoption of sustainable practices. The episode concludes with a call for continued collaboration and innovation to achieve lasting gains in nutrient stewardship. Tune in to gain insights into Canada's efforts to achieve emission reduction targets while maximizing productivity and sustainability in agriculture.

There are many reasons to optimize your irrigation:

• Increase nutrient uptake efficiency
• Control Pest, Fungi, and diseases
• Improve plant health and productivity
• Reduce nutrient leaching
• Environmental sustainability
• Conserve water
• Reduce pumping costs

We discuss

• some of the common methods used to determine irrigation frequency and duration.
• Evapotranspiration and crop water demand
• Weather variability and importance of Hyper-Local weather 

We introduce Yara's Farm Water Advisor, a simple, easy to use mobile application that delivers precise crop water demand forecasts and irrigation recommendation that are precise for YOUR crop, YOUR field, and YOUR cultural practices.

Learn more and download the Ap at www.FarmWaterAdvisor.com or download at the Apple Ap Store or Google Play Store.

If you have comments, questions, or suggestions, please contact 

Scott.warr@yara.com. 916-390-2999

or hello@farmwateradvisor.com 

In this part 2 of our Incubator Farm series, Devin Clarke, takes us to the Yara Almond Incubator Farm in Modesto, California, a pioneering site in the heart of California's Central Valley. The farm is part of a series dedicated to exploring innovative solutions that combine enhanced farm productivity with sustainable practices. This 80-acre farm, which also features a walnut grove, functions as a collaborative research hub.

Devin Clarke, Agronomy Solutions Manager at Yara North America and a member of the Strategic Ag Innovation Committee for the Almond Board of California, delves into the cutting-edge practices being tested on this farm. The focus of the discussion is on continuous fertigation, a method that optimizes nutrient delivery to almond trees based on weekly crop demand curves. This strategy not only improves nutrient use efficiency but also boosts yield and reduces disease incidence, such as whole rot.

Devin emphasizes the farm's role in pushing the boundaries of traditional almond farming by integrating innovative crop nutrition management strategies that enhance productivity and soil health. The episode also touches on the challenges of scaling these practices, including the need for better infrastructure and practical guidance to support the widespread adoption of continuous fertigation among growers.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into how collaborative efforts at the Yara Almond Incubator Farm are reshaping the future of nut farming, aligning technological advances with sustainable agricultural practices.

In today's episode, we dive into the fascinating world of soil science and agronomy with Dr. Newell Kitchen, who has recently published an eye-opening research paper titled "A New Perspective When Examining Maize Fertilizer Nitrogen Use Efficiency, Incrementally." We'll explore the key insights from his groundbreaking work and how they can transform the future of farming.

• Introduction to Dr. Newell Kitchen and his illustrious career in soil science and agronomy.
• History of the USDA-Agricultural Research Service
• Where we've come in nitrogen management over the past 30 years

Recommended Resources

• Article,  "A New Perspective When Examining Maize Fertilizer Nitrogen Use Efficiency, Incrementally"
• USDA Agriculture Research Service Website
• Newell's consulting business is Agronomic, Geologic & Environmental Services

Scott Warr and Peter DeBoer are back with another podcast episode about almonds! Peter is the Sales Agronomist at Yara International and he is joined by Spencer Cooper, the Senior Manager for the Almond Board of California. Today’s topic dives into the steps farmers need to take to properly irrigate their almond plants post-harvest and our guests share ways you can minimize your plant stressors to get the most out of your crop for next year! If you want more information about almonds,  Almond Board of California is hosting a free conference in December. The Link is in the show notes.

Key Takeaways:

[1:00] What does Spencer do for field outreach and education?

[1:35] How do you pronounce ‘almonds’?

[3:20] What does the Almond Board of California do?

[4:50] Today’s podcast will focus on post-harvest irrigation methods.

[6:10] What kind of risks do farmers face if they don’t see through the irrigation process?

[12:15] During the harvest season, how much mostriure gets depleted in the soil?

[16:15] What is the most misunderstood topics about irrigation?

[18:05] What does it mean when you have to put on 2 inches of water? How much time do you have to run the irrigation system?

[19:40] Peter recommends treating your irrigation system post-harvest the same way you treat it during the first year after winter. Even though it’s a pain to fix and get right, it’s a worthwhile investment.

[21:20] For many farmers, watering their plants is a very emotional decision, but the good news is we have tools to help you through the process.

[22:25] How did the California drought affect farmers?

[26:15] Almond trees are tough plants! They can survive without water.

[26:45] When is it smart to turn off the water?

[28:00] Want more info? YARA is hosting a conference just for you! And it’s free..!

[32:45] Feel free to reach out to Spender for more information about the Almond Board of California.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Yara.com

Yara.us/crop-nutrition/almond/myalmonds/

Almonds.com

Almondconference.com

Peter on LinkedIn

Spencer on LinkedIn

There are many variables in farming.  Distruptions are a challenge that growers are atuned to recognizing and making decisions that can minimize the  impact.  Gary Vogen, Yara North America's VP of Corporate and Regulatory Affairs joins Dr. Rob Mikkelsen and Devin Clarke to discuss some of the new regulatory issues that are specific to fertilizers          and how they might effect agriculture.  

Neil Mayberry discusses strategies and rules that can help you transition your turf quickly and successfully this spring.

1:40     150-degree Rule

2:39     Spring is a tough time to grow turf

6:06     Preventative fungicide program is important

6:39     Well-balanced nutrition program is critical

7:18     Stay to ½ lb. of N until you hit the 150-degree rule

8:20     Importance of Phosphorus

8:32     Importance of Potassium

9:00     Other nutrients & their importance

11:00   Soil and Tissue Sampling during the summer as a barometer

Erika Wagner, Yara Crop Manager, updates us on the 130-acre Columbia Basin Incubator Farm focused mainly on potato.

She discusses the weather challenges they had early in the year and some of the preliminary findings from the 2022 season.

Watch this short video about the Columbia Basin Incubator Farm

Listen to our previous episode on the Columbia Basin Incubator Farm

Learn more about Yara's Top Potato Program HERE

Dr. Rob Mikkelsen, Yara North America's Director of Agronomic Services, helps us understand the origin of using phosphorus for plants and how this has changed over the years.  We discuss what the future of phosphorus might look like too.

Read Dr. Rob's article we reference HERE

Check out a couple of our favorite episodes:

• An Unsung Hero: Norman Borlaug
• The Alchemy of Air with author Thomas Hager

In modern farming we need to use synthetic fertilizers in order to grow enough food for our world's population.  Are these fertilizers healthy of our soils or hurting our soils?  Dr. Rob Mikkelsen, Yara North America's Director of Agronomic Services.  Like any tool, we need to use these fertilizers properly.  If we don't, we can harm the soil.  However, if we implement the 4 Rs of nutrient stewardship to maximize our nutrient use and improve the soil health.  

We mentioned a couple episodes regarding soil health with Dr. Karl Wyant:

• Don't Treat your Soil Like Dirt -Part 1
• Don't Treat you Soil Like Dirt - Part 2

Permanant Crop Manager, Devin Clarke, talks about the importance of post harvest irrigation on almonds relative to carbohydrate production and storage.  It is the only time that we can build carbohydrates in excess of what the tree is demanding and store for the coming bloom resulting in improved yields.

This episode originally aired in the fall of 2018 when we weren't in an extreme drought.  In this episode Yara's Regional Sales Manager, Peter DeBoer, and Spencer Cooper, formerly with the Almond Board of California discuss strategies to properly irrigate almonds post harvest.  

If you would like further information, please visit 

• This article on Yara's web site
• The Almond Board of California's Irrigation Continuum
• Get in touch with the field outreach team at the Almond Board of California

In our second installment of the video podcast series, Yara's Sales Agronomist in the Pacific Northwest, Brady Stover, tests out an unconventional healing method and breaks down the mystery of phosphorus.

This is the fourth episode in a series that will help us understand soil analysis and how it can be beneficial as you create a complete nutrition plan.

In this episode, we discuss what we do with the soil analysis report we get back from the lab.  How do we interpret these results and create a nutrition plan that will create the optimal ROI for your field and crop.   It might be beneficial to listen to the previous episodes:

1. Is There Value in Soil Analysis
2. What You Need To Know When You Are Taking Soil Samples
3. Soil Analysis - Lab Considerations and Analytical Processes

If you have any questions or want to learn more, please visit Yara US or Yara Canada

If you have any comments or suggestions, please feel free to leave a comment

Farmer’s freedom to use fertilizer is being challenged.  The 4R Practice results in increased yield and maximum nutrient utilization and protects against the treat of mandatory rate reductions.

Grower Benefits

1. Economic Benefits, increased profitability
2. Environmental Sustainability – not abusing the soil
3. Optimum nutrient efficiency

 To find out more, please click HERE

What is Cation Exchange Capacity and why is that important when developing and executing a complete nutrition plan for you crop and field?  Dr. Steve Petrie helps us understand what cations and anions are, how they attach to soil particles and why that is important to your fertility plan.

Here is a great video created by Learning Games Labs that simplify cation exchange process.

Join Trey Cutts, Crop Manager at Yara North America, and Dr. Bobby Golden, Associate Professor at Mississippi State University, as they delve into the intricacies of Nitrogen Management. With so much history and knowledge in using Nitrogen as a fertilizer, why are there so many questions out there about it’s management in agricultural production? From what nitrogen source to use, to rates and timings, and also newer technologies like NBPT and polymer coated Nitrogen, sometime a down to earth conversation is what’s needed to make sense of it all. Listen along to tap into the valuable insights and knowledge Dr. Golden has in this arena.

In our first "grab bag" we call the Audio Magazine, we get

• Yara Sales Agronomists: Katelin Britton & Victor Lopez
• Yara Product Specialist: David Morgan
• Dr. Steve Petrie

to come to the table with topics that are top of mind and we discuss them.  Topics include:

• Heat Stress on Vegetables
• The 4 Rs of financial success
• Lighter Walnuts are better tasting - how to grow them
• Choosing the right type of nitrogen
• Moving beyond reaching critical levels - striving for a standard of excellence.

In this episode, we discuss the benefits of cover crops in terms of sustainability, profitability, and soil health. We explore the ROI of cover crops and how they can improve nutrient use efficiency in farming. Yara's Director of Agronomic Services, Dr. Rob Mikkelsen is joined by  Curt Knight, Soil Health Agronomist to provide insight on the latest research and practical tips for farmers looking to incorporate cover crops into their operations.

• Explanation of what cover crops are and how they are used in agriculture
• Types of cover crops and the benefits of each
• Some history of cover crops
• Overview of the benefits of cover crops for sustainability, profitability, and soil health
• Discussion of the financial benefits of cover crops, including reduced input costs and increased crop yields
• Explanation of how cover crops can improve nutrient use efficiency by cycling nutrients and reducing leaching

Useful links for further learning

Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education is a great place to start. Lots
of good information on the specifics of cover crop selection and cover cropping strategies.

There are many cost sharing and incentive programs for cover crops:

• USDA Cover Crop Subsidy
• NRCS EQIP (environmental quality incentives program)
• Carbon credit programs: where the company will pay you based on the amount of carbon that your cropping systems have sequestered. Cover crops are usually included in these programs. Our friends at Agoro Carbon Alliance.
• Many statewide and regional cost-sharing programs

For our friends in Canada:

• Ag Action Manitoba
• Ducks Unlimited Canada
• Canadian Agricultural Partnership
• On-Farm Climate Action Fund (Canadian Federal Initiative)

This is our continued discussion with David Chaffin, Digital Agronomist, and Dr. Steve Petrie from last week.  Corn yields have improved over the past decades, but we still can achieve more.  Dave helps us understand some of the biggest innovations that are on the horizon and how you can begin implementing them for higher yields and profits.

Wouldn't it be nice if we could see how the roots of a plant respond to treatments?  Dr. Isaac Madsen, Extension Agronomist at Washington State University, teaches us about the innovative work he as been doing with scanner technology and root observation.

• What is the advantage of looking at roots instead of at the shoots?
• What crops can we do this with?
• What do we learn from these observations?
• Are there other forms of nitrate-based fertilizers that eliminate the NH4-induced root damage?
• What is the interest in oil seed crops in the Pacific Northwest?

Check out Dr. Madsen's Youtube channel to see some of the scans!

Dr. Rob Mikkelsen, Yara's Director of Agronomic Services, joins us again to bust a common myth that organic fertilizers are preferred by plants.

To learn more about Yara please visit us at 

• https://www.yara.us
• https://www.yaracanada.ca 

Sulfur is a constituent of amino acids in plant proteins and is involved in energy-producing processes in plants.  Sometimes a deficiency can be mistaken for Nitrogen deficiency.  Dr. Rob Mikkelsen helps us understand how a plant uses sulfur and how to diagnose a deficiency.  We also talk about the 4Rs of this nutrient to maximize its efficient use.

Find out more about specific crop deficiencies HERE

Find out more about Yara's solutions for sulfur, AMIDAS

When it comes to the most effective nutrition plan, Liebig's Law of the Minimum states that yield is proportional to the amount of the most limiting nutrient, whichever nutrient it may be.  From this, it may be inferred that if the deficient nutrient is supplied, yields may be improved to the point that some other nutrient is needed in greater quantity.

Director of Agronomic Services at Yara, Dr. Steve Petrie, discusses this law of minimum as we begin a weekly series of agronomic tips that will be published each Tuesday.

In this episode of the Yara Crop Nutrition podcast, we delve into the world of crop management and dairy operations with guests Emmaline Long from Yara North America and Dave DeGolyer from the Western New York Crop Management Association. Over 35 minutes, they discuss the critical role of 4R Nutrient Stewardship in dairy farms, including the development and importance of  Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans (CNMP) for dairies, and the unique factors such as manure management that affect these operations. Dave also sheds light on his organization's journey to 4R Nutrient Stewardship Certification, detailing the process, importance, and impact on their business. 

Scott Warr and Markus Braaten sit down to discuss canola nutrition on today’s episode. Markus Braaten is the Canola Crop Manager at Yara North America and he answers some burning questions about the importance of canola in North America, how farmers can increase their yield, and the best places for growers to learn more.

Key Takeaways:

[0:55] Why is canola important to North America?

[3:15] Why did Yara decide to focus on canola?

[4:30] What types of products does Yara have available for canola growers?

[6:15] Markus explains some of the existing cultural practices for canola in North America.

[8:10] What type of yield can growers expect from a typical canola harvest?

[9:20] How are farmers successfully getting 2x their yield at the end of the year? What are they doing differently? 

[13:30] Before offering solutions, it’s important to understand where the grower is today and what some of the ‘missing pieces’ are in their journey.

[14:30] Markus offers advice for canola growers and the types of things they need to improve upon.

[16:10] Sometimes your maximum yield might not be your maximum profitable yield, so how can growers fix that?

[18:30] Where can growers go to learn more?

Mentioned in This Episode:

Yara.com

Yaracanada.ca/crop-nutrition/canola/

Markus on LinkedIn

In this episode, we're excited to welcome Dr. Grant Cardon, a professor and Extension Soils Specialist at Utah State University's Department of Plants, Soils & Climate. With years of expertise in soil, water, and nutrient management in the Western U.S., Dr. Cardon is a leading authority in his field. Today, Yara's Dr. Rob Mikkelsen joins in the conversation where we tackle a question many have about soil testing: "Why do different soil labs yield varying results from the same samples?" Dr. Cardon will guide us through the importance of accurate soil testing, the variables that cause these discrepancies, and how to ensure you're getting the most reliable data for your soil analyses. Whether you're an agronomist, a grower, or simply interested in the science behind the soil, this episode offers invaluable insights.

Soil Science Society of America's North American Proficiency Testing.

Check out Dr. Cardon's blog, Dirt Diggers Digest article on this subject.

Soil Samples are important to understand your nutrient balance in order to develop an effective nutrient management plan. This is the second of three podcasts that help us with soil samples.

In this podcast Dr. Steve Petrie teaches us about lab analysis:

• How do we select a lab?
• What should we know about the different analytical processes?
• What is the expected turn around time?
• What tests are available?
• What information should you ask for?
• What information should you expect to get back?

Phosphorus is a macronutrient that is responsible for energy transfer in the plant.  We discuss why we should worry about P, the different forms of P and how it interacts with the other nutrients attributes to overall plant health and productivity.  Next week we will dive into the 4 R's for Phosphorus.

If you have a comment, question or suggestion please click HERE.  We would love to hear from you.

Today we are diving into a fascinating topic that is both crucial to modern agriculture and a wonder of the natural world – bees. These tiny yet mighty creatures have been an integral part of farming for centuries, shaping the landscapes of our fields and the flavors on our plates.

In this episode, we're joined by a seasoned bee expert, Jeff Shaw, Bee Hero, and Jesus Toro, Agronomy Specialist, and apiarist,  who will guide us through the historical significance of bees in agriculture, their invaluable role in pollination, and how they can be allies in boosting your on-farm profits through complete nutrition programs. We'll explore the intricate relationship between bees and the crops they help flourish, uncovering the challenges they face and the solutions that pave the way for a harmonious coexistence.

Links that you might find helpful:

• Bee Informed: dedicated to working with beekeepers to improve colony health and increase colony survivorship.
• Bee Where: Bringing beekeepers and pesticide applicators together by tracking and safeguarding hive locations across California using simple mapping tools
• Xerces Society: international nonprofit organization that protects the natural world through the conservation of invertebrates and their habitats
• American Beekeeper Federation: Acts on behalf of the beekeeping industry on issues affecting the interests and the economic viability of the various sectors of the industry
• Project Apis m.: Funds research and efforts to improve honey bee health and vitality.

Why are the prices so high and limited availability?  

How can we maximize our economic yeilds?

Yara's Dr. Rob Mikkelsen and Chris Gallo join to discuss pricing and availability issues.  We look at the 2022 forecast and what growers and their advisors can do to manage.  We talk about

• Difference between maximum yield and maximum economic yield
• How to maximize fertilizer use efficiency
• Role of balanced nutrition
• Value of soil and tissue samples
• Focus on ALL of the 4Rs of nutrient stewardship not just the Right Rate
• Value of staying flexible and dynamic as the season rolls out 

This episode is a part 2 from last week, where Dr. Rob Mikkelsen met up with some notable soil scientists at the American Society of Agronomy conference.

In this episode of our podcast, we delve into the life and career of Dr. John Ryan, a distinguished international soil scientist with an extraordinary background. Born and raised in Ireland, Dr. Ryan's journey in the realm of semi-arid agriculture is as fascinating as it is impactful. 

Dr. Ryan, holding degrees from University College Dublin and the University of Arizona, and a Certified Professional Soil Scientist, takes us through his remarkable journey from the green landscapes of Ireland to the arid environments of Arizona, Lebanon, Morocco, and Syria. He shares the unique challenges and rewards of working in these diverse climates, emphasizing his work with smallholder farms in resource-limited settings. 

Throughout the episode, Dr. Ryan discusses how improving agricultural productivity can transform the lives of families and communities, especially in semi-arid zones. He sheds light on the significant barriers to enhancing farm productivity in these regions, including climate change, erratic rainfall, and political instability.

Dr. Ryan also reflects on his professional contributions, expressing pride in the international service awards he's received from notable societies like ASA, CSSA, and SSSA, and being named a Fellow in all three. His insights on the future of farming under challenging conditions are both enlightening and thought-provoking.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in agriculture, environmental science, and the real-world impact of scientific research. Join us as we explore the journey of a man who went from an Irish kid to a global influencer in the field of soil science and agriculture.

We did a short podcast back in October about the discovery of synthetic fertilizer and mentioned the book, "The Alchemy of Air: A Jewish Genius, a Doomed Tycoon, and the Scientific Discovery That Fed the World but Fueled the Rise of Hitler".  After the publication of that episode, we were introduced to the Author, Thomas Hager, who generously agreed to come on the podcast.  Thomas recounts stories about two chemists, Fritz Haber and Carl Bosch, who together discovered a way to create synthetic fertilizer.  He also expounds beyond the book to describe what was simultaneously happening in Norway at Norsk Hydro (later Yara).

This discovery is credited to providing sustainable food for over 1/2 the worlds population.

Dr. Steve Petrie talks about the different ways we can monitor our crops throughout the season.  Each of these methods are valuable and the more you include, will likely help you understand more and use your crop inputs more precisely.

• Visual Inspection
• Tissue sample/analysis
• Soil & Water sample/analysis
• Digital tools and remote sensing

In this podcast we take a deep dive on ultradwarf bermudagrass greens management with Stephen Miles, Director of Operations at the Preserve Golf Club and Dr. Beth Guertal, Professor of turfgrass management at Auburn University. 

• Weather extremes and the effect it has on managing high quality surfaces
• Topdressing and verticutting strategies
• A proper cultivation plan is critical for providing great greens, especially implementing aerification
• Customer expectations and the misperception of ball speed
• Fall preparation and winter management strategies
• Determining when to fertilize during less than optimal growing conditions
• Light requirements
• A take on where the future of golf course management heading

In this episode of the Yara Crop Nutrition Podcast, Yara Regional Sales Manager and grower, Peter DeBoer, helps us understand the critical role of post-harvest nutrition for effective crop management, with a particular focus on almond farming. They emphasize the importance of nutrient sampling and how it can directly influence both crop yield and the economic impact of fertilizer application. The discussion covers common mistakes in post-harvest agricultural practices, the need for transparent communication between growers and advisors, and how strategic nutrition planning can support sustainable farming. Key takeaways include using post-harvest applications to mitigate plant stress and the long-term value of nutrient sampling in avoiding wasted resources. 

Dr. Tim Ellsworth is a professor at West Hills College in California.  He has many years experience working as a soil scientist with the USDA and over 30 years of teaching experience in agriculture.  He has expertise in soil science, geology and irrigation.  Tim joins us to talk about how irrigation can improve plant health and yield, what effects the drought might have on crops and some golden nuggets that might be implemented if you are dealing with a deficit of water.

You can reach Tim at timothyellsworth@whccd.edu or by phone 559-934-2711.

If you are looking to learn more visit

• Cal Poly's ITRC - Short Courses and Classes
• Fresno State Center for Irrigation Technology
• UCANR's California Institute of Water Resources
• UCANR's Pistachio Short Course & Almond Short Course
• Irrigation Association's publications including, Irrigation- 6th ed.

Download and use Yara's Farm Water Advisor FREE!  In less than 1 minute you can have your first field set up and calculating an optimal irrigation schedule for the next seven days based on hyperlocal weather and over 100 years of agronomic modeling.  And it's FREE!  Download it here

Dr. Steve Petrie helps us understand what potassium is, what it's roll is in crop biology, and how to test for potassium.

If you have a comment, question or suggestion please click HERE.  We would love to hear from you.

How can furthering the practices of the 4R nutrient management, transform not only agricultural productivity but also contribute significantly to environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation? 

Dr. Tom Bruulsema, Chief Scientist at Plant Nutrition Canada, and Yara’s Director Of Agronomy, Dr. Rob Mikkelsen are back with us to talk about the advancement of the 4Rs of Nutrient Stewardship.  

In addition to Dr. Bruulsema's many jobs, he is also a committee member at the Scientific Panel on Responsible Plant Nutrition or SPRPN.

In a previous episode with Tom, we talked about the ambitious mandate by the Canadian government to cut fertilizer-related greenhouse emissions by 30% by the year 2030. We talked about the critical role of the  R's of nutrient stewardship (rate, source, timing, and placement) in curbing emissions and enhancing nitrogen use efficiency. 

In this episode, we will explore why there's a pressing need to further the 4Rs. We'll discuss how the 4R concept has been integrated into agricultural conversations worldwide and examine its impact over the past decade in North America and globally. 

We'll also address the idea proposed by Paul Fixen in an earlier podcast about adding more "R's" to the existing framework. 

In today's episode, we'll be exploring the fascinating relationship between proper plant nutrition and disease and pest management. We all know that a healthy plant is better equipped to fend off pests and diseases, but did you know that the right balance of nutrients can also play a crucial role in preventing outbreaks and managing infestations? Dr. Rob Mikkelsen, Yara's Dir. of Agronomic Services is joining us today to teach us more about the science behind this important relationship, as well as practical tips for implementing effective plant nutrition strategies on your farm. 

Understand what your soil is telling you.  Learn some very simple concepts that will help to create an effective crop program this season.

In this episode, we explore the use of aerial imagery in modern agriculture. The episode covers different types of aerial imagery available to farmers, such as drones, airplane, and satellite imagery, and discusses the advantages of using this technology for crop monitoring. Imagery expert, Jesus Salcedo with the Morningstar company talks about the challenges and limitations of using aerial imagery in agriculture, as well as the potential for new technologies such as hyperspectral imaging and machine learning to transform the way farmers use and interpret this data. Overall, the episode highlights the potential benefits and considerations of using aerial imagery in precision agriculture.

Find out more about Morningstar Company HERE

Learn more about Gradient Crop Yield Solutions HERE

Last week we talked about some toxic elements.  This week we dive into some essential nutrients that can also be toxic.  We specifically talk about:

• B
• Cl
• Fe
• Mn

We have stated that soil analysis should be your baseline & starting point for developing a good nutrition plan for your crops.  Is this still the case?  Are there better ways to determine what the plant needs to maximize its genetic potential?  Are soil tests accurate? What about spatial variability? Do they cost too much money? Are tissue/petiole tests better?

In this part 1 of a series of episodes focused on soil analysis, Dr. Rob Mikkelsen and Markus Braaten discuss these questions and if and how soil analysis should be integrated into your workflow.

As we work through these topics, we would love to hear from YOU.  If you have comments or questions, please submit them by clicking HERE or emailing scott.warr@yara.com.

The days of limitless water are far behind us. Dr. Sebastian Braum joins Yara's Dr. Rob Mikkelsen to discuss how water is the number one driver of growth and yield.  Dr. Braum talks about the improvement in the irrigation equipment being installed and that we now need to improve how we use this equipment.  He also looks into his crystal ball of what farming might look like in 15-20 years.

Dr. Braum is the Director of Agronomy at Farm(x) and a soil scientist.  He is experienced in nutrient management, irrigation and soil management.

Check out the Irrigation Association's resources and certifications.

Download and use Yara's Farm Water Advisor FREE!  In less than 1 minute you can have your first field set up and calculating an optimal irrigation schedule for the next seven days based on hyperlocal weather and over 100 years of agronomic modeling.  And it's FREE!  Download it here

For the last ten years, The Fertilizer Institute has designated five growers and their retailer as advocates of the 4Rs of nutrient stewardship.  Each pair that are selected play a crucial role in showcasing the real-world economic and environmental benefits of implementing 4R Nutrient Stewardship principles. 

Myron Johnson, with Double J Farms, a 4th generation farmer in Alabama and his retail advisor, Drew Schrimsher with GreenPoint Ag join Christy Hicks, Yara Sales Agronomist, to help us understand what they are doing to protect the environment and optimize profits.

4Rs Advocates Class of 2021

Videos of past 4R Advocates

Become an advocate

Learn more about Nutrient Stewardship

In this encore episode, we revisit a crucial conversation from 2020 on the importance of nitrogen and sulfur in crop nutrition and how they work together to enhance plant health. The discussion emphasizes the need to go beyond just focusing on nitrogen application rates and to implement the four Rs of nutrient management: right rate, right source, right time, and right place. Our experts, Yara's Dr. Trey Cutts and Markus Braaten, CCA, highlight the benefits of using a homogenous product that ensures the correct ratio of nitrogen and sulfur in every prill. Research shows that this balanced approach can lead to a 10-15% increase in both yield and nitrogen use efficiency, ultimately driving profitability. Tune in to learn how balanced nutrition can optimize your crop growth

Takeaways

• Consider more than just the rate of nitrogen application in crop nutrition.
• Focus on the four Rs: right rate, right source, right time, and right place.
• Using a homogenous product like Yara Ametis ensures the correct ratio of nitrogen and sulfur.
• Research shows that using Yara Ametis can lead to a 10-15% increase in yield and nitrogen use efficiency.
• Balanced nutrition is crucial for optimal crop growth and profitability.

In the realm of professional sports, the meticulous care of sports turf fields sets the stage for exceptional athlete performance. Unlike traditional farmlands, urban landscapes, or native ecosystems, these specialized fields demand precise agronomic strategies to withstand the rigors of athletic activity. Tailoring crop nutrition to specific turf grass varieties, managing constant foot traffic, and ensuring rapid recovery all contribute to lush, resilient playing surfaces that meet exacting sports industry standards while upholding the health of these green spaces. Joined by Yara's Neil Mayberry, Regional Market Development Manager for the Eastern US, Dr. Rob Mikkelsen, Director of Agronomic Services and Dr. Bryan Hopkins from Brigham Young University, this podcast episode delves into their insights drawn from a comprehensive study of North American sports turf fields, unraveling effective management practices that bridge the gap between playability and sustainability.

Be sure to check out the bible, "Best Management Practices for the Sports Field Manager"

Another resouce is a talk that Dr. Bryan Hopkins did last year, "Soil Science Simplified: The Dirt on Green Grass"

This episode explores the history, development, and sustainability of the potash industry. We are joined by Dr. Davide Ciceri, who currently leads innovative R&D at AgroPlantae, Inc. and Yara’s Director of Agronomy, Dr. Rob Mikkelsen.

We begin with the origins of potash, which can be traced back to ancient methods of extracting potassium compounds from wood ashes. The conversation then delves into the development of the potash fertilizer industry, highlighting the work of chemist von Liebig and the commercial mining of potash in Germany. The different methods of potash mining, including underground mining and solution mining, are discussed. The conversation also explores the sustainability of potash resources and the potential for alternative sources of potassium. The importance of considering the right source of potassium for specific crops and soil conditions is emphasized. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the historical significance of potash and the ongoing research and development in the industry.

Dr. Ciceri wrote an insightful article, “Historical and Technical Developments of Potassium Resources.”

Here are the links to our other episodes on the history of fertilizers:
- The Alchemy of Air with Author Thomas Hager
- The History and Future of Phosphorus for Plants
- An Unsung Hero: Norman Borlaug

Here is a beautiful photo of the potash evaporation ponds near Moab, Utah

In this episode of the Yara Crop Nutrition Podcast, we will explore apple fertility, focusing on the key nutrients that are essential for optimal growth and fruit development. We also uncover the factors that impact fertility recommendations, including soil pH, organic matter content, weather conditions, and crop rotation practices.  Emmaline Long, Agronomy Solutions Manager here in North America.

Dr. Steve Petrie discusses the 4 R's of Potassium:

• What is the Right Sources of K
• What is the Right Rate of K
• What is the Right Timing of K application
• What is the Right Placement of K

If you have a comment, question or suggestion please click HERE.  We would love to hear from you.

Dr. Steve Petrie helps us understand how soil pH can help improve nutrient uptake and overall crop health.  He answers the following questions:

• What is pH and how do we measure it?
• Why does soil pH matter?
• Is there a best pH for my soil?
• Why is low or high pH bad?
• How do we correct adverse soil pH?
• Is there better forms of fertilizer that can be used to help correct adverse pH?

A good consistent agronomic plan is key to success with permanent crops.  In this episode, we talk about citrus:

• What are the economic impacts to the US economy?
• What are some of the challenges with citrus today?
• What are some strategies that can improve sustainability and maximize on-farm profits

Learn more about Yara's Complete Citrus suggestions here.

Take a look at Yara's "Field Talk Friday" video series we mentioned.

In the final video of our nutrient series, Yara's Sales Agronomist Brady Stover comes clean on the use of magnesium in crops.

Yara's Market Development Managers, Dr. Trey Cutts and Markus Braaten help us understand how Sulfur and Nitrogen, working together, can increase crop growth potential and farm profitability.

• Plants use N & S together to build proteins and DNA to assure top yields
• N & S are needed in a balanced ratio, depending on the specific crop
• Excessive amounts of one means a deficiency of another
• How can we assure the correct blend ratio is distributed evenly throughout the field?

Dr. Steve Petrie, the Director of Agronomic Services at Yara International, joins Scott Warr to discuss the macronutrient, nitrogen! Steve explains in detail why nitrogen is so important for our crops, there are even different types of nitrogen that works better than others for our crop growth and yield, and he also explains what you need to be aware of when it comes to reducing your greenhouse gas emissions when using different types of nitrogen fertilizer.

Key Takeaways:

[0:35] Why is Steve such a regular guest on the podcast? It’s because he knows everything!!

[1:45] What is nitrogen and how is it manufactured?

[4:45] How did farmers add nitrogen to crops back 100 or so years ago?

[5:35] How has technology changed our nitrogen practices?

[7:40] What are some of the major types of nitrogen available to farmers?

[9:55] Steve explains why so many farmers use ammonia for growing corn.

[13:50] Crops in general prefer nitrate nitrogen. Those types of fertilizers may cost a little bit more, but you will see a greater quality in yield.

[17:25] What do farmers need to be aware of when it comes to sustainability and to reduce their greenhouse gas footprint?

[19:40] How can farmers keep and maintain a good nitrogen management program in their irrigation systems?

[20:35] Water is also a really important macronutrient!

[21:45] Steve and Scott have only scratched the surface about nitrogen. Look forward to a part 2 on this topic soon!

[22:10] How much nitrogen gets applied to agriculture in a typical year?

Mentioned in This Episode:

Yara.com

Steve on LinkedIn

Just because water is wet, doesn't mean it is good for your soil or crop.  Soil will take on the characteristics of the water that is applied.  Water quality can play a critical role in fertilizer use efficiency.  

Dr. Steve Petrie starts the discussion on water quality in this part two of three Agronomic Tips of the Week that will help us understand why we should be concerned about the quality of the water we are irrigating with and how we can mitigate some of common issues found in water.

In this episode of the Yara Crop Nutrition Podcast we talk with citrus growing expert John Martzen and Yara Sales Agronomist, Vanessa Dominguez, about the crucial role of micronutrients in citrus health and productivity. They discuss the importance of regular tissue sampling, the risks of over-applying micronutrients, and emerging technologies in nutrient management. John shares success stories that highlight the positive impact of effective nutrient management on crop yields and quality, offering valuable insights for citrus growers aiming for optimal crop performance.

Key Takeaways:

• Micronutrients’ Role: Micronutrients are essential for the overall health and productivity of citrus crops, influencing energy cycles and chlorophyll development.

• Importance of Tissue Sampling: Regular tissue sampling is vital for understanding the nutrient needs of citrus trees and tailoring nutrition programs accordingly.

• Risks of Over-application: Over-applying micronutrients can lead to toxicity and imbalances, while under-applying can cause nutrient deficiencies.

• Technological Advancements: New technologies, such as sap analysis and improved nutrient delivery systems, offer more accurate monitoring and management of micronutrient levels.

• Success Stories: Real-world examples demonstrate the positive impact of tissue sampling and nutrient management on crop yields and quality.

One of the key decisions a grower and advisor has to make is how to plan for the future and how resources can be most effectively used.

This year the nut industry is expected to have record crop yields.  Almonds, for example, will be an all-time record.  In contrast, the market price for almonds is looking to be near break-even rates.  So what do we do?

Devin Clarke, Yara's Permanent Crop Manager, helps us understand the long-term consequences of short-term decisions.  

If you would like to learn more about the MyAlmond program, please visit our MyAlmond web page.

Also check out the California incubator field and the videos that Devin mentions in the podcast HERE.

This episode of the Yara Crop Nutrition Podcast focuses on the vital role of potassium in citrus production and how it can boost yields. Potassium is crucial for water, nutrient, and carbohydrate movement in plants, enhancing leaf size, tree vigor, and overall health. It plays a major role in crop yield and fruit quality in citrus crops. Citrus trees take up more potassium than nitrogen, making it a critical nutrient. The right source of potassium depends on soil type and timing of application. Frequent applications in smaller doses are recommended for better nutrient uptake. Potassium deficiency can lead to hindered growth and smaller, lower-quality fruit.  Yara Sales Agronomist, Vanessa Dominguez, joins us to help explain this agronomic golden nugget.  

Learn more about citrus crop nutrition HERE.

Our next micronutrient in the series is Iron (Fe).  Sometimes agronomy is more art than science.  Fe diagnosis and application is one nutrient where this is the case.  Fe is key in the production of chlorophyll that helps our plants grow healthy and strong.  Dr. Steve Petrie discusses how we can understand plant available iron in the soil and how to determine Fe deficiencies and how to implement Fe, via the 4 R's, in a balanced nutrition plan.  He also explains how soil Ph level is critical for plant available iron.

In this episode of the Yara Crop Nutrition Podcast is a little different.  We talk with Taylor Chalstrom, the dynamic managing editor of My Ag Life and host of the My Ag Life podcast.  My Ag Life is a cornerstone resource dedicated to enriching the agricultural community in the Western United States with cutting-edge information. We talk about crucial topics such as soil health, the emerging role of biostimulants, advancements in agricultural technology, the intricacies of integrated pest management, and the criticality of effective water management. 

Links and Resources:

• My Ag Life Podcast
• Yara Crop Nutrition Podcast Subscribe Link

Connect with Us:

We love hearing from our listeners! Share your feedback, questions, or suggestions with us on our social media channels or HERE

This is part 2 of our soil analysis series.

In this episode, we discuss when, where and how to take soil samples that you will send to the lab. We discuss the differences between grid sampling vs. zone sampling and composite sampling.

Listen to our first episode when we discussed why or if you should do soil analysis HERE 

In this video podcast, Yara Sales Agronomist Brady Stover, explains the importance of Boron in crop Nutrition.

There is a connection between microbiomes, soil health/structure, and drought resilience.  Dr. Karl Wyant, VP of Ag Science at Heliae Agriculture helps us understand how to build healthier soils that can

• mitigate drought stress
• improve water holding capacity
• improve erosion resistance
• improve nutrient use
• sequester carbon
• reduce externalities 
• improve profits

Find out more about soil health at the Soil Health Institute

Article on drought-resilient crop production

Dr. Wyant's previous episodes on soils:

•  “Don’t Treat Your Soil Like Dirt” delt with the physical and chemical components of soil
• "Don't Treat Your Soil Like Dirt Part 2" delt with the biological components of soil

To learn more from Karl, email him at info@heliae.com or visit Phycoterra's web site

An avocado grower sees dramatic increases in his fruit set and quality when he switches from traditional forms of Nitrogen to Calcium Nitrate this year.  Join Yara Regional Sales Manager, Patricia Dingus and Sales Agronomist, Eddie Muro and our retail partner Sunny Brucker PCA CCA, AgRx, as we discuss this 80-acre field trial.

Even if you don't grow avocados, there are some great golden nuggets that you might be able to transfer into your advising and growing.

Find out more about avocado nutrition, please check out this article at Yara.us

In today's episode, we are excited to explore the topic of regenerative farming.  We are delighted to have a special guest, Benina Montes with Burroughs Family Farms, a family-owned and operated business in California that has been at the forefront of regenerative agriculture for over four decades.

We will delve into the various strategies and practices that Burroughs Family Farms has implemented to enhance their soil health and overall sustainability. We will discuss the importance of cover crops, crop rotations, and nutrient management in promoting healthy soil microbiomes, increasing soil organic matter, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

What is the difference in total calcium, soluble calcium, and exchangeable calcium?  All calcium sources need to be considered and know how it is behaving in the soil in order to get the plants to use it.  

Dr. Jim Walworth, Professor of Soil Science Extension Specialist st the University of Arizona, joins Dr. Rob Mikkelsen, Yara Director of Agronomic Services to discuss these topics with a bonus conversation on pecans!

In the dynamic world of crop production, staying ahead means understanding not just the 'how' but the 'why' behind effective agronomics. And that's exactly what we're unpacking in this episode. Foliar nutrition is more than just a trend; it’s a pivotal part of modern agriculture, offering targeted, efficient, and quick nutrient delivery to your crops.

We'll explore the science behind foliar feeding,

• how it complements traditional soil nutrition,
• its role in maximizing crop health and yield. 
• how folier applied nutrition can help plants in drought conditions

To help us understand this we have two experts: Dr. Rob Mikkelsen, Yara North America's Director of Agronomy and Delaine Madziak, Regional Market Development Manager for Western Canada.  They are going to relate real-world case studies, and practical tips that you, as a grower or agronomist, can apply in your fields.

Crop Manager Delaine Mandziak, gives us an update on the activities on one of our four North America Incubator Farms.  Listen to our introduction to this farm on our initial episode about this Farm.

Delaine talks about the devestating drought conditions they have endured throughout Western Canada and they unexpected learnings from this.  She also updates us on the 2022 observational data and the importance of a complete nutrition program during these challenging times.

The Saskatoon incubator farm is 80-acres of row crops that feature Western Canada's cropping system including canola, wheat, barley, peas, lentils, etc. To find out more about the Saskatoon field click HERE

Yara has created these incubator farms in North America with collaborative efforts with customers, partners, and various technology providers, Yara plans to utilize these farms to study and advance insights into all aspects of the cropping system. To find out more about the incubator farms click HERE.

2021 looks like it might be a continuation of one of the worst geographical droughts in the last 20 years. 80% of the Western U.S. in drought and nearly 1/2 in "extreme" or Exceptional" drought.

This series of episodes will be focused on the drought, the challenges and some strategies that might help advisors and grower manage through the drought.  In this episode, William Bourdeau joins us to help us understand the severity of the drought in California.  William is a grower (EVP at Harris Farms), director of Westlands Water District, and Chairman of the California Water Alliance.

How are you creating your irrigation schedules this year?  Yara's Farm Water Advisor calculates your field specific plant water use for the next week and then advises you how long and frequent to irrigate.  And it's FREE!  Download it here

Links we mentioned:

• Film, "Pray For Rain"
• Film, "Beyond the Brink"
• California Water Alliance
• California Sun Newsletter