Water Management, Critical for Plant Agronomics - Part 2

In this podcast episode, Dr. Isaac Mpanga discuss circular agriculture and its role in sustainability and resource efficiency within modern farming. Isaac explains how regenerative agriculture and nutrient recycling can enhance soil health while reducing the environmental impact of farming. Isaac shares real-world examples of agricultural innovation and the role of food companies in promoting sustainable farming practices. The discussion highlights how growers can maintain profitability while adopting eco-friendly solutions. The episode wraps up with practical steps for farmers looking to integrate circular agriculture into their operations. Resources: Mpanga et al 2024 https://lnkd.in/g_X94XQS Mpanga et al 2023 https://lnkd.in/gg8drxUK Here is a book that Isaac wrote on the subject: Circular Agriculture

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.

Roots are essential for nutrient and water uptake, but how do you know if your roots are healthy and functioning? In this part one of two episodes Dr. Rob Michelson teaches us about the vital connection between soil health, root systems, and plant performance. He emphasizes nutrient management's role in fostering root development, enhancing fertilizer efficiency, and boosting agricultural productivity. The discussion underscores how understanding root health and the rhizosphere can improve sustainable farming practices and overall crop nutrition. Key takeaways include the importance of addressing soil compaction, balancing soil acidity, and leveraging micronutrients to support robust root systems. This holistic approach integrates soil science and agronomy to optimize plant health and farm profitability.

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.  

Irrigation is crucial in optimizing crop growth, nutrient uptake, and overall plant health. In this part one of a two-part episode, we will explore the agronomic value of proper irrigation. In this first half of the Yara Crop Nutrition Podcast, 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. The conversation highlights how proper irrigation not only boosts crop growth and nutrient uptake but also enhances sustainability and efficiency in farming. We examine the evolution of irrigation techniques and how advancements in technology, such as sensors, are helping growers manage water with greater precision. The discussion also touches on California’s SGMA legislation and its implications for water use in agriculture.

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.