Except for cash rent, corn producers now spend more for fertilizer than any other input.

Today, there is intense interest in fertilizer use because of the high cost of fertilizer and the reduced value of the commodity produced. Unlike the fabricated “scare” of the Soybean Asian Rust issue of the past few years, the problem of higher fertilizer prices combined with lower commodity prices is real.

To address this serious challenge, crop producers are making changes in their fertilizer management practices–some big–some small. I’ll use three examples to illustrate the impact of various changes on fertilizer costs.

A recent caller from southeast Minnesota wanted to use a suspension fertilizer in a band as a replacement for 10-34-0. Based on results of analysis of soil samples, we worked to adjust rates. Comparing the new ideas to his traditional program for use of phosphate and potash, the savings for the 2009 crop year calculated to about $20.00 per acre. The changes made were small–but important when multiplied by the number of acres that would be planted to corn in 2009.

In another instance, a long-time ridge-till farmer called last week with an objective of reducing fertilizer costs. Based on results of analysis of soil samples collected in 2008, the rates of phosphate and potash were reduced somewhat compared to the rates that had been used in the past. These small changes produces a savings of about $38,000 for his farming operation. Changes made were small; but, savings in fertilizer costs were substantial. These changes were based on the results of an excellent soil sampling program.

In the third instance, using e-mail, I worked with a farmer in western Minnesota throught the summer to switch from broadcast to banded applications for corn production. Continuous corn is the intended crop sequence. The new planter will apply phosphate and potash in a band to the side of and below the seed. Management zones created for each field will guide variable rate application of phosphate and potash in the band. This new program will be a substantial change from the uniform broadcast applications that were previously used. Projected savings evolved from calculations made by the grower will be in the neighborhood of $170,000 at current fertilizer prices. There’s no question. This is a substantial savings. In this case, analysis of soil samples and specific rates in a band are key to the success of the program.

These three examples show that there is not a single approach or a single procedure that will reduce fertilizer costs. Each situation is different and advice from a professional who understands fertilizer recommendations will help as changes in fertilizer programs are anticipated.

Whilie channel surfing last week, I watched as two individuals lamented high input costs for the 2009 growing season. They were convinced that everyone who grows corn would be spending $200 to $300 per acre for corn production. I hurried to do some calculations. Considering current fertilizer prices at the local dealership, I can’t devise a fertilizer program that will cost that much. I don’t know where these guys were getting their fertilizer recommendations. But they certainly should have searched for a second opinion.

SOURCE: George Rehm, MN

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