Yara's Crop Nutrition podcast

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome Tobin Stetson, a seasoned professional with a rich civil engineering and soil conservation background, who recently joined Yara to support our efforts in the Eastern Canadian markets. We discuss the relationship between civil engineering and soil conservation, the importance of water in agriculture, and the projects Tobin has worked on in Prince Edward Island. We also explore sustainable farming practices, the impact of irrigation on crop production, and the role of Yara in supporting farmers in Eastern Canada. Tobin comes to us with a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering. He has spent six years as a Soil & Water Conservation Engineer with the Prince Edward Island (PEI) Department of Agriculture. During his tenure, Tobin has been at the forefront of implementing advanced solutions in soil conservation, irrigation, and wastewater management. He's also deeply involved in enhancing farm infrastructure and promoting sustainable farming practices.

We are in the forth episode in a series of episodes dedicated to a network of incubator farms that Yara North America is using to find innovative ways to improve farm productivity balanced with sustainable practices that can be implemented by growers to improve their on-farm profits. In this episode, Scott Warr and Erika Wagner discuss the Yara incubator farm in the Snake River Valley, Idaho, and its focus on potato production. They explore the differences between potato production for fries and the fresh market, as well as the objectives of the incubator farm in terms of crop nutrition, yield, quality, and carbon footprint. They also discuss the levers that can be pulled to reduce emissions in potato production and the importance of nutrient management in potato sizing and quality. Erika shares her excitement about the new season in the Snake River Valley and highlights the conferences and events where potato growers can learn more about the industry. Erika Wagner, Agronomy Solutions Manager. Erika has a BS in molecular biology and a masters in agronomy. Fun facts about potato production in Idaho: • Idaho grows the most acres of potatoes of any US state with 328,850 planted in 2023. • The majority of the potatoes grown are russet potatoes. • Russet potatoes grown in Idaho are used for processing into fries and for the fresh market. • The majority of potato acres in Idaho are located in the Snake River Valley.

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.

How important is the thin layer of crust on earth that we call soil? Dr. Rob Mikkelsen, Yara North America's Director of Agronomy, and soil science expert Professor John Havlin help us understand. Dr. Havlin's work has not only revolutionized grape cultivation in North Carolina but also advanced sustainable farming practices worldwide. In this episode, we discuss the evolution of soil fertility practices, the impact of nutrient management on crop quality, and the significance of long-term agricultural trials. We'll also delve into Professor Havlin's intriguing research on wine grapes and how soil health drives the growing wine industry in North Carolina. Nutrient management can become an opportunity for environmental stewardship. Some Takeaways: Soil science is crucial for sustainable agriculture and the future of food production. Nutrient management and long-term trials play a significant role in improving farming practices. The book 'Soil Fertility and Fertilizer' has evolved over the years to address changing agricultural practices and environmental concerns. There is a need for more young people to pursue careers in soil science and agriculture. Teaching quantitative skills in soil science is a challenge but essential for understanding the science behind soil health and fertility. The work with wine grapes in North Carolina has been the most exciting and rewarding for John Havlin. Nutrient management, particularly nitrogen application, plays a crucial role in improving the quality of wine grapes. Soil health and fertility are essential for successful grape growing. The grape industry in North Carolina has grown significantly in the past few decades. Dr. Havlin holds the position of professor and extension specialist in Crop & Soil Sciences at North Carolina State University. He has also served as the past president of the Soil Science Society of America. Dedicated to raising awareness about soil's crucial role, Dr. Havlin's efforts have contributed to the establishment of the House of Representatives Soils Caucus and a $4 million educational exhibit at the Smithsonian, which opened in 2008. This exhibit aims to educate the museum's six million annual visitors on how soil is fundamentally connected to human health, environmental sustainability, and planetary well-being. To learn more check out these links: Document for the Carolina Geological Society (2022) Journal article summarizing some of our vineyard nutrient management research (2022), which will serve as the basis for an Extension product coming out later this year.

Dr. Jim Camberado discusses nitrogen use efficiency in crop production. Dr. Camberado shares his experience working with crops such as corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, and the challenges in executing nitrogen use efficiency. He emphasizes the importance of nitrogen use efficiency due to the dynamic nature of nitrogen in the soil and its impact on crop productivity. Dr. Camberado also addresses misconceptions about nitrogen use efficiency and provides insights into optimizing nitrogen application during uncertain pricing. Dr. Camberado's achievements include significant awards from the American Society of Agronomy and impactful roles at both Purdue and Clemson University. Dr. Camberato's work focuses on developing and disseminating nutrient use recommendations to enhance agricultural productivity. As a member of leading societies like the Soil Science Society of America, his expertise is invaluable to the farming community. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of nitrogen management with an expert in the field. Useful Links: Perdue University's Soil Fertility site Some of Dr. Camberado's publications

In recent years, we have seen a rise in soil acidification. Today's episode discusses the causes, signs, and effects of soil acidification, as well as strategies for mitigation, adaptation, and prevention (MAP). Joining Yara's Dr. Rob Mikkelsen is Dr. Clain Jones, renowned Montana State University Extension soil fertility specialist and Dr. Manbir Rakkar, Assistant Professor at Ohio State University who help us understand the significance of soil pH changes. Soil acidification can be caused by natural factors such as high rainfall and unbuffered rock, as well as human activities like nitrogen fertilizer application. Signs of soil acidification include stunted plant growth, nutrient deficiencies, herbicide damage, and increased fungal disease occurrence. Regular soil testing is crucial for monitoring soil pH and detecting acidification. Alternative methods for soil pH testing, such as pH sticks and remote sensing technology, can also be used. Preventing soil acidification can involve improving nitrogen use efficiency and incorporating legume crops or perennials into cropping systems. Mitigation strategies include applying lime and changing crop rotation. It is important to manage soil acidification to maintain soil and plant health and prevent long-term yield losses. Variable rate lime application and site-specific monitoring of pH can help optimize lime usage. Check out the video, "Acidification of Cropland Soil: Impact, Causes, and Solutions" that Dr. Jones created that helps explain the soil acidification issue. Read the article, "The Implication of Soil Acidity and Management Options for Sustainable Crop Production in Africa"