263: Roots and Shoots

Today we’re talking about all things cover crops. We touch on the best practices of drone seeding and the importance of managing the carbon-nitrogen ratio. From budget-friendly options like cereal rye to more diverse mixes, tune in for a great discussion that promises to take your soil health to the next level.

Join us as we explore the dig deeper into the world of plant roots and the role they play in improving plant health and yield. Listen in as we discuss the vital role of the root system and how it helps in achieving optimal crop yields.

Join us as we talk with Dan about how in furrow nutrient application can significantly enhance farm profitability. He shares his journey of overcoming yield plateaus and high nitrogen usage. Tune in to hear Dan share how his farm has achieved higher profits.

Discover the hidden depths of your farm's soil as we take you on a journey through the fascinating world of root systems and soil compaction. Unlock the secrets to optimizing nutrient availability in your soil with a focus on phosphorus and potassium levels. Let’s dissect how healthy root systems play a pivotal role in nutrient uptake and the benefits of regenerative agriculture practices. By promoting deeper root growth, you can create natural pathways for water movement, thus improving soil health and plant resilience. So, get ready to fine-tune your corn crop management with insights into the vital differences between drying and dying crops. Accurate tissue testing can uncover unexpected results! We look forward to connecting with you soon!

Are your soybean yields stagnant? Tune in today to hear how you can transform your soybean yields from average to extraordinary with a few strategic changes. Join us for an open conversation with Mike from Minnesota, who did just that. Frustrated by stagnant soybean yields, Mike reached out to A Better Way to Farm for guidance. By incorporating in-depth soil testing, starter fertilizer, micro-nutrients, and foliar feeding into his farming practices, Mike saw his soybean yields soar from 40-50 bushels per acre to 60-70 bushels per acre. He shares the power of targeted input strategies and an open mind. Don't miss out on Mike's practical tips in this episode!

How are farmers supposed to thrive when the cost of production for an acre of corn has skyrocketed from approximately $800 in 2017 to more than $1,100 today? Join us for a discussion with Dr. Scott Irwin, the Norton Chair of Agricultural Marketing from the University of Illinois, as we unpack the soaring production costs, the impact of inflation on farm expenses, and the intricate balance of maintaining profitability in such volatile markets. He offers his expert analysis on the various factors driving these cost increases, from fertilizer and seed to labor and insurance, and delves into the broader implications for the agricultural sector. So, don't miss this comprehensive episode packed with invaluable expertise and practical advice for today's farmers.

What if you could decrease your cost of production while simultaneously increasing your yield by 25 BPA? Join us as we chat with Chad from Northwest Iowa, who has successfully redefined his 1,200-acre corn and bean operation. Chad shares how adopting cutting-edge strategies has made his farm more efficient and profitable. So don't miss this episode’s insights on achieving optimal results through innovative and efficient practices.

Enhancing plant health is key to boosting yields and profitability, and we've got the tips to help you do just that! Here we discuss the significant benefits of using Nonionic surfactants to improve spray coverage and absorption, along with the game-changing impact of adding sugar to your tank. Backed by research from the USDA and the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, these methods can lead to increased pest tolerance and higher yields. We will also stress the importance of diligent field scouting to catch aphids early and protect your crop yield. This is an episode packed with practical advice and insights to help you thrive in the ever-evolving agricultural landscape so tune in NOW!

Learn how to navigate today's commodities market with practical insights and strategies that can save your farm from financial peril. On this episode, we welcome back Roger Wright to help decode the unpredictable world of grain marketing. He shares his expertise on how farmers can manage these financial and emotional strains. Gain valuable knowledge on the importance of strategic grain storage and how to capitalize on potential future price rallies. Tune in for insights to help you thrive in today's complex and volatile agricultural market.

Could sugar be the secret ingredient your crops are missing? Join us as we cover the unexpected advantages of incorporating sugar into your farming practices. We dive into the science and history to reveal how sugar applications can boost nutrient uptake, enhance photosynthesis, and improve stress tolerance in crops. We'll cover diverse methods such as foliar feeding, fungicides, herbicides, and in-furrow treatments, and we'll guide you on how to effectively implement sugar treatments in your farming operations. Tune in and discover how a simple, inexpensive ingredient can transform your farming success and boost yields.