Whether you're starting your first farm or growing crops for the tenth year in a row, it's important to know when and how to apply starter fertilizer. For most crops, early spring is the best time to apply starter fertilizer. But how do you know when it's the right time for your crops? Here are some tips for farmers who are getting started or may be looking for answers:
How to apply starter fertilizer & when to apply starter fertilizer
Starter fertilizer is a type of fertilizer that's applied early in the growing season before plants begin to grow. It helps to jumpstart the plant's growth and development by supplying it with essential nutrients. It is typically applied directly to the seed furrow during planting. Most young plants have limited root systems, which can limit their ability to take up nutrients from the soil. This gives the plant access to nutrients immediately when it starts to grow. You can also get in touch with us here at AgroTech USA; we’re always more than happy to guide you.
How much starter fertilizer to use when planting crops
The amount of starter fertilizer to use depends on the type of crop you are planting, the nutrient requirements of the crop, planting density, and the soil type. As a general guideline, for corn growers, it is typical to apply 2-5 gallons of pop-up fertilizer per acre when planting corn or beans. This fertilizer is designed to supplement a full fertilizer program. If growers want to apply more of the total season requirements at planting, they can look into 2x2 placement. The 2x2 placement puts the fertilizer two inches away from the seed, reducing seedling damage. This allows growers to use higher volumes, such as 10-20 gallons per acre.
How to find the best starter fertilizer for your crops
There are many options available when it comes to selecting a starter fertilizer, and it can be challenging to determine which one is best for your crop. When selecting a starter fertilizer, it is important to pay close attention to the salt content. Some fertilizers have high salt content, which can negatively affect germination. Therefore, it's often best to apply a balanced fertilizer that contains N, P, K, and trace elements such as zinc. Additionally, it is recommended to choose a fertilizer that is labeled for in-furrow application.
Make sure you maximize your fertilizer’s performance
Not only is it important to use a starter fertilizer, but it’s also important to maximize its performance and your plants' uptake of vital nutrients. What many farmers don’t often realize is that things like their soil pH can affect the concentration of things like positive ions in their soil, which will make nutrients like phosphorus less available to the plants their growing. A product like NutriCharge® can overcome this challenge and make phosphorus more available to plants regardless of the soil’s pH levels. Therefore, you want to make sure you’re using a product like this or some of our other products depending on your soil’s makeup. After all, you want to make sure that the return you get from the money invested in your farm is as big as possible, right?
Not sure where to start?
Getting started with the right starter fertilizers and products that make your crops yield their very best can be an overwhelming effort when you do it alone. But luckily, you don’t have to. If you need help or guidance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us and let us assist you.
Now that you have the starter information on how to apply starter fertilizer and how to get the best use of vital nutrients in your soil, you can start your farm’s planting season off on the right foot. Don't forget to check back to our blog often for valuable information and resources to make your farming efforts their very best.
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