Soil Fertility

Iowa Releases New Publication on Use of the Late Spring Soil Nitrate Test June 8, 2017

Following heavy spring rains, farmers may be interested in testing for soil nitrogen availability. This article notes a new publication from Iowa State University on using the Late Spring Soil Nitrate Test (LSNT) as well as other options for assessing soil nitrate.

Chart of potential for nitrate-N leaching in spring 2017

Risk of Nitrate Leaching Across Nebraska as of May 21, 2017 May 25, 2017

Following heavy spring rains UNL soil scientists model potential loss of nitrate-N to soil leaching, finding an average 14% loss from mid-April levels, with three sites with much higher losses.

Center pivot irrigated soybeans — Management in a successful soybean-after-soybean cropping system may require growers to make some slight adjustments in their practices, including irrigation, seed selection, and pest management.

Planting Soybean after Soybean (Part 2): In-Season Management Considerations April 13, 2017

In Part 1 of this article, we look at considerations for planting soybean after soybean. In this article, Part 2, we share considerations for in-season management.

Figure 1. Liquid fertilizer manifold used on a planter for applying starter fertilizer. (Photo by Charles Shapiro)

Starter Fertilizer: When is it Warranted? April 12, 2017

As you evaluate the cost of inputs, consider this: Only focusing on expenses without subsequent income changes is misleading. The most profitable plan uses the most profitable inputs. Is a starter fertilizer one of those inputs? The authors look at university and grower research under various conditions to see when a starter fertilizer offers economic benefits.

Cover of Nitrogen Exenders and Additives for Field Crops

Recommended Resource: Nitrogen Extenders and Additives for Field Crops March 9, 2017

A recently revised publication, Nitrogen Extenders and Additives for Field Crops, discusses their attributes, performance, and crop yield response in various trials, and reviews related research findings from land grant universities in the North Central Region.

New NebGuide: Soil Management for Increased Soil Organic Matter March 2, 2017

A new Nebraska Extension NebGuide discusses the steady state level of soil organic matter and how some management practices can reduce soil organic matter loss or increase soil organic matter.

You Can Postpone Phosphorus, Potassium, and Zinc Fertilizer Applications When…. February 28, 2017

Soil testing and applying only the soil nutrients needed to produce your yield goal can provide a significant savings in fertilizer costs. Nebraska research shows growers can save as much as $52.12/acre for postponing phosphorus, potassium and zinc applications.

Pie charts showing two manure fertility scenarios — Figure 1. Value of the individual nutrients in surface-applied beef manure for the lower and higher value assumptions made in Table 1.

Finding Win-Win Opportunities for Manure February 27, 2017

Land application of manure can create a win-win scenario for your farm by providing valuable crop nutrients while helping build soil organic matter. Learn more about the benefits of replacing commercial fertilizer with manure and how to get the most value when integrating an application into your soil nutrient plan.