Biostimulants vs. Traditional Inputs: What Growers Need to Know

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. 

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.

Welcome to this special throwback episode of the Yara Crop Nutrition Podcast! We’re revisiting a classic episode from 2019, which is part of a series dedicated to exploring each essential plant nutrient. In this episode, Dr. Steve Petrie, retired Director of Agronomic Services, dives into the vital role of phosphorus in crop nutrition. He breaks down the “Four Rs” of phosphorus application: the right rate, the right source, the right placement, and the right timing. Dr. Steve also emphasizes the importance of soil testing, discusses the benefits of banded versus broadcast applications, and highlights the value of foliar treatments for addressing late-season phosphorus deficiencies. Whether you’re new to nutrient management or looking to refresh your knowledge, this episode offers timeless insights that are just as relevant today. Find out more at Yara.us or YaraCanada.ca or follow us on Facebook, X, YouTube and LinkedIn

Biostimulants are a growing trend in agriculture, with their use rapidly increasing worldwide, but there are still some questions about how they play a role in today's agriculture.   Yara's Marcio Wally, Biological Senior Manager based in Canada, explains that biologicals are complementary to traditional agricultural inputs like fertilizers and pesticides, enhancing crop nutrition and resilience to stress. Biostimulants can improve nutrient availability and uptake, as well as enhance plant aspects to resist crop stress. They do not replace nutrients or agrochemicals but rather enhance crop management. The types of biostimulants include non-microbials (seaweed extracts, humic substances, amino acids) and microbial biostimulants (beneficial bacteria and fungi). The choice of biostimulant depends on the specific needs of the crop and the desired outcome.

This video conversation discusses the influence of plant nutrition on root health. Dr. Rob Mikkelsen emphasizes the importance of roots and how they are often overlooked. They explain the impact of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and micronutrients on root growth and health. He provides examples and visuals to illustrate the effects of nutrient deficiencies on roots. The conversation concludes by highlighting the significance of a balanced supply of nutrients for overall plant health and the importance of discussing the source of nutrients in promoting root health.   Takeaways Roots are often overlooked but play a crucial role in plant health. Nitrogen promotes the development of a dense and extensive root system. Phosphorus influences root architecture and stimulates associations with mycorrhizal fungi. Potassium affects overall plant growth and water relations. Calcium is involved in many aspects of root health and triggers hormone production for root growth. Micronutrients are important for root growth and health. A balanced supply of nutrients is essential for root health and overall plant health.

In this video episode of the Yara Crop Nutrition Podcast, Dr. Rob Mikkelsen, Director of Agronomy for Yara in North America, delves into the crucial topic of nitrogen nutrition in crops. He discusses the physiological preference of most common crops for nitrate nutrition over ammonium, explaining how the ionic charge of the nitrogen molecule impacts plant growth and soil conditions. Rob highlights various research findings, including those from Dr. Dharma Pichay at Tennessee State University, demonstrating the negative effects of ammonium on a range of crops such as almonds, apricots, tobacco, strawberries, and tomatoes. He emphasizes the goal of Yara to provide optimal crop nutrition through their nitrate-based fertilizers, ensuring plants reach their full potential. Tune in to learn more about the significance of nitrate nutrition and how it can enhance crop performance.

In this episode, Dr. Rob Mikkelsen  teaches us about the fascinating and often overlooked world of root health and its crucial role in plant nutrition. He begins by posing a thought-provoking question: Do nutrients influence roots, or do roots influence nutrients? The answer, as Rob explains, is a complex interplay of both. The Hidden Half of Agriculture: Rob emphasizes the importance of roots, which are frequently overlooked despite their critical role in plant health. He encourages agronomists and farmers to always carry a shovel to inspect root health regularly. Complex Structure of Roots: The episode highlights the significance of root hairs in water and nutrient uptake. Rob explains how calcium is absorbed only at the root tips, underscoring the need for healthy roots to continually explore new soil zones. Historical Perspective on Nutrient Uptake: Rob shares an old illustration that depicts nutrient uptake as a train system, transporting nutrients to the “factories” in the leaves. This analogy helps explain the complexity of nutrient assimilation processes. Influences on Root Health: The podcast discusses several factors that affect root health, including: Soil Acidity: High soil acidity can stunt root growth due to toxic soluble aluminum, but this can be remedied with proper limestone applications. Soil Salinity: Excess salt can cause water stress and reduce plant performance. Soil Compaction: Compact soil can hinder root penetration, affecting water and nutrient uptake. The Role of the Rhizosphere: Rob introduces the rhizosphere, the narrow zone surrounding roots, rich in biological activity. He highlights its importance in nutrient uptake and overall plant health. Subscribe to our channel to stay updated on future episodes where we continue exploring the fascinating world of plant nutrition and its impact on crop health. Connect with Us: • Website: Yara North America • Social Media: Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn

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.

In this Yara Crop Nutrition Podcast episode, Dr. Isaac Mpanga, Yara's Sustainable Food Solutions Director, discusses the importance of sustainable food systems and agronomic agricultural practices. They explore the role of stakeholders in making sustainable agriculture a reality and how Yara is involved in promoting sustainable practices. Isaac emphasizes the need for coordination and communication among all players in the food chain to achieve transformation and sustainability. He also highlights the challenges growers face in implementing sustainable practices and the importance of return on investment for farmers. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the progress and future of sustainable agriculture.

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.