How to manage nutrient strategies

Nutrient use efficiency can be maximised by establishing and maintaining a good root system as well as choosing the correct source and timing of application. Applying the nutrients when the crop requires them means you’re getting the maximum return. When looking at different strategy types then there is a short-term view of 1-3 years where the focus is more on the crop that’s in the ground. There is risk built in as there isn’t a reserve of nutrients in the soil acting as a buffer. A longer-term strategy is looking 4-10+ years where the focus is more on inherent data and on-farm trends. Building a buffer of nutrients in the soil means resilience has also been built in; including good levels of organic matter.

For both strategies the nitrogen management is the same, early applications at the end of February at higher rates such as 70-80kg/ha to ensure you’re maintaining the biomass as the crop beings the period of rapid growth. 

Phosphate and potash applications should be carried out in the spring when the crop requires these nutrients. Crops start growing at about 5 degrees C whereas phosphate and potash availability is still low at these kind of temperatures so applications will be utilised by the plant as it can’t get what it requires from the soil. Getting the most out of nutrient applications by maximising the efficiency will mean you’re getting the best return on your investment.