THE IMPORTANCE OF STARTER FERTILIZER DURING A COLD SPRING
Apr 26, 2023
With our extended weather forecast showing below normal temperatures across much of UFC’s territory we know growers may not be waiting for “ideal” planting conditions. We suggest utilizing 6-24-6 starter fertilizer to help corn and soybeans deal with cooler planting temperatures in several ways:
Overall, utilizing 6-24-6 starter fertilizer can be an effective way to help corn and soybeans deal with cooler planting temperatures. By providing young plants with the nutrients they need for healthy growth, growers can help establish strong root systems, increase yield potential, and improve stress tolerance, ultimately leading to healthier and more productive crops.
- Improved nutrient availability: Cooler soil temperatures can slow down the release of nutrients from the soil, making it more difficult for young plants to access the nutrients they need for healthy growth. By providing additional nutrients through starter fertilizer, growers can ensure that young plants have access to the nutrients they need to establish strong root systems and grow quickly.
- Enhanced root growth: Phosphorus, which is the primary nutrient in 6-24-6 starter fertilizer, is particularly important for root growth and development. By providing young plants with high levels of phosphorus through starter fertilizer, growers can help establish strong root systems early in the season. This can be particularly important in cooler temperatures, when root growth can be slower.
- Increased yield potential: By providing young plants with the nutrients they need for healthy growth, growers can help maximize yield potential even in cooler planting temperatures. This is particularly important for corn and soybeans, which have a limited window of time for growth and development.
- Improved stress tolerance: Cooler temperatures can be stressful for young plants, which can slow down growth and development. By providing additional nutrients through starter fertilizer, growers can help improve stress tolerance and ensure that plants are better able to withstand adverse conditions.
Overall, utilizing 6-24-6 starter fertilizer can be an effective way to help corn and soybeans deal with cooler planting temperatures. By providing young plants with the nutrients they need for healthy growth, growers can help establish strong root systems, increase yield potential, and improve stress tolerance, ultimately leading to healthier and more productive crops.