Basics of crop production

Basics of Crop Production
Soil and Plant FertilitySoil and Plant Fertility

Soil Quality
• This is the most important factor inThis is the most important factor in
farm crop production.farm crop production.
• Soils will determine which plant speciesSoils will determine which plant species
yields the most, the time of harvest, andyields the most, the time of harvest, and
ultimately the investment a landownerultimately the investment a landowner
must make to yield an acceptablemust make to yield an acceptable
economic return from management.economic return from management.

Soil Profile
The soil profile
shows the layers,
known as horizons
that represent
the soil.
Horizons formed
over the centuries
due mostly form
weathering.
A lettering system
is used to name
the different
horizons.

Where can you find info
on a farm’s soil?
• In theIn the County SoilCounty Soil Survey MapSurvey Map..
• There are Tables on several landThere are Tables on several land
options such asoptions such as WoodlandWoodland
Management and ProductivityManagement and Productivity whichwhich
provides a lot of valuable informationprovides a lot of valuable information
on the potential for soil erosion,on the potential for soil erosion,
seedling mortality, species preference,seedling mortality, species preference,
and tree growth.and tree growth.

County Soils Map
There is even a table in the Soil SurveyThere is even a table in the Soil Survey
Map that evaluates sites for wildlifeMap that evaluates sites for wildlife
habitat.habitat.

Factors Controlling Plant
Growth
• LightLight
• Mechanical SupportMechanical Support
• HeatHeat
• AirAir
• WaterWater
• NutrientsNutrients
• All except for light, involves soilAll except for light, involves soil

Major Components of Soil
Air
Water
Organ. Matter
Mineral
50%50%

Soil Terminology
• Soil textureSoil texture
- concerns the size of mineral- concerns the size of mineral
particles, specifically theparticles, specifically the
relative proportion of variousrelative proportion of various
size groups in a given soilsize groups in a given soil
• Soil structureSoil structure
- the arrangement of soil particles- the arrangement of soil particles
into groups of aggregatesinto groups of aggregates

Soil Texture
• Soil texture is separated into three soilSoil texture is separated into three soil
separates based on particle size.separates based on particle size.
1 SandSand
2 SiltSilt
3 ClayClay

Soil Texture
• Silt, claySilt, clay
- imparts a fine texture and slow- imparts a fine texture and slow
water and air movement, also highwater and air movement, also high
water holding capacitywater holding capacity
• Sandy to gravellySandy to gravelly
- are referred to as lighter soils with- are referred to as lighter soils with
lower water holding capacitylower water holding capacity

Soil Texture
• Sandy soils are normally very wellSandy soils are normally very well
drained and often lack nutrients due todrained and often lack nutrients due to
constant leaching loss.constant leaching loss.
• Mostly clay soils are at the opposite endMostly clay soils are at the opposite end
of the soil spectrum. They tend to allowof the soil spectrum. They tend to allow
water to move through more slowlywater to move through more slowly
and will stay wetter longer. They willand will stay wetter longer. They will
hold nutrients.hold nutrients.

Soil Terminology
• Pore spacePore space
- is that portion of the soil occupied- is that portion of the soil occupied
by air and waterby air and water
- sandy soils have low soil porosity,- sandy soils have low soil porosity,
while silt and clay soils have highwhile silt and clay soils have high
soil porositysoil porosity
• Soil compactionSoil compaction
- fine textured, wet soils are more- fine textured, wet soils are more
easily compactedeasily compacted
- compaction reduces pore spaces- compaction reduces pore spaces

Soil Terminology
• Soil depthSoil depth
- defined as that depth of soil material- defined as that depth of soil material
favorable for plant rootfavorable for plant root penetrationpenetration
- deep, well drained soils are the best- deep, well drained soils are the best

Soil TerminologySoil Terminology
• SlopeSlope
- land topography largely- land topography largely
determines the amount ofdetermines the amount of
drainage, runoff, and erosiondrainage, runoff, and erosion
- the steeper the land, the more- the steeper the land, the more
management is requiredmanagement is required

Soil Terminology
• Organic matterOrganic matter
- it consists of plant and animal- it consists of plant and animal
residues in various stages of decayresidues in various stages of decay
- adequate levels benefit soil by:- adequate levels benefit soil by:
1) improving physical condition1) improving physical condition
2) increasing water infiltration2) increasing water infiltration
3) improving soil tilth3) improving soil tilth
4) decreasing erosion losses4) decreasing erosion losses
5) supplying plant nutrients5) supplying plant nutrients
6) holding cation nutrients6) holding cation nutrients

Soil Terminology
• pHpH
- expression of both acidity and- expression of both acidity and
alkalinity on a scale whose valuesalkalinity on a scale whose values
run from 0 to 14 with 7run from 0 to 14 with 7
representingrepresenting neutrality, <7neutrality, <7
represents acidity,represents acidity, andand >7>7
represents alkalinityrepresents alkalinity
• pH has a significant impact on thepH has a significant impact on the
availability of soil nutrientsavailability of soil nutrients
• pH 6.5pH 6.5

pH ScalepH Scale
The figure shows
the break down
of where acidity
to alkalinity is on
the pH scale.
PH 7 is neutral.

pH Effect on NutrientpH Effect on Nutrient
AvailabilityAvailability
This graphic shows
how the major plant
nutrients change in
availability with the
increase and
decrease of pH.
The wider the black
band in this
graphic, the more
available the
nutrient.
This has a direct
impact on plant
health. For most
agricultural crop
recommendations,
the goal is to have
a 6.5 pH. At this pH
most of the
essential plant
nutrients are
available.

pH Preferences by PlantspH Preferences by Plants
This graphic
shows the range in
pH preferred by
plants. This
shows that it is
important for
producers to know
the fertility and pH
requirements of
the plants they
plan to grow.
As can be seen
from the black
bands, most plants
prefer a pH
between 5.5 and
7.0.
A pH below 5.5 is
considered to be
very acid and
above 7.0 is
alkaline.
.

Limiting Factors
• A layer which restricts the downwardA layer which restricts the downward
penetration of a plant’s root systempenetration of a plant’s root system
will reduce growth in direct relationwill reduce growth in direct relation
to the depth of the layer.to the depth of the layer.
• On rare occasions, a limiting layer mayOn rare occasions, a limiting layer may
increase site productivity, such as onincrease site productivity, such as on
sandy soils where the layer may retardsandy soils where the layer may retard
leaching of nutrients and increaseleaching of nutrients and increase
available moisture.available moisture.
Root

Subsoiling
There are farm implements
available that can breakup
soil hard pans and
improve the crop
production in otherwise
limited soils.
Subsoilers have long shanks that
physically dig down to break
open the hard soil to form
channels where plant roots can
penetrate.

16 Essential Elements (part 1)
• PrimaryPrimary
Nitrogen (N)Nitrogen (N)
Phosphorus (P)Phosphorus (P)
Potassium (K)Potassium (K)
• SecondarySecondary
Sulfur (S)Sulfur (S)
Magnesium (Mg)Magnesium (Mg)
Calcium (Ca)Calcium (Ca)
The primary elements are plant nutrients that
are needed and most used by plants for
growth. The primary nutrients can be found
in commercial complete fertilizers as the
fertilizer number reflects these three
elements, i.e. 10-6-4.
Secondary elements are the next most
needed plant nutrients. Magnesium and
calcium are obtained from liming materials.
During the Industrial revolution, most of our
sulfur came from air pollution (sulfur
dioxide).
In recent years, producers have had to
routinely include supplemental sulfur to
their crop fertility programs as the air
around us becomes less contaminated with
sulfur.

• Micro-nutrientsMicro-nutrients
Iron (Fe)Iron (Fe)
Manganese (Mn)Manganese (Mn)
Boron (B)Boron (B)
Chlorine (Cl)Chlorine (Cl)
Zinc (Zn)Zinc (Zn)
Copper (Cu)Copper (Cu)
Molybdenum (Mo)Molybdenum (Mo)

• The final three (3) essential elementsThe final three (3) essential elements
to plant growth come mostly from airto plant growth come mostly from air
and water.and water.
• They are:They are:
Carbon (C)Carbon (C)
Hydrogen (H)Hydrogen (H)
Oxygen (O)Oxygen (O)

The Primary Elements
• Nitrogen: It gives plants their green color,Nitrogen: It gives plants their green color,
promotes above ground growth, andpromotes above ground growth, and
regulates utilization of other elements.regulates utilization of other elements.
• Phosphorus: It has favorable affect onPhosphorus: It has favorable affect on
- cell division- cell division - stem strength- stem strength
- crop maturation - root development- crop maturation - root development
- flowering/fruiting - disease resistance- flowering/fruiting - disease resistance

• Potassium (K)Potassium (K)
-- It is essential for starch formationIt is essential for starch formation
and translocation of sugars. It isand translocation of sugars. It is
also essential to the development ofalso essential to the development of
chlorophyll. K helps plantschlorophyll. K helps plants
to over-winter.to over-winter.
The Primary Elements (con’t)

What is the nutrient contentWhat is the nutrient content
of commercial fertilizers?of commercial fertilizers?
• Expressed as a percent called theExpressed as a percent called the
“guaranteed analysis” or fertilizer“guaranteed analysis” or fertilizer
grade.grade.
• Nutrient content always appears inNutrient content always appears in
this order:this order:
% total nitrogen% total nitrogen
% available phosphate (P% available phosphate (P22OO55), or), or
phosphoric acidphosphoric acid
% soluble potash (K% soluble potash (K22O)O)

The Fertilizer Number
The fertilizer number refers to a ratio of N-P-KThe fertilizer number refers to a ratio of N-P-K
5-10-5 (1-2-1 ratio) has:5-10-5 (1-2-1 ratio) has:
5% N 10% P5% N 10% P220055 5% K5% K220 = 20%0 = 20%
The other 80% of the material is called theThe other 80% of the material is called the
carrier. This is typically some inert material.carrier. This is typically some inert material.
10 - 6 - 4 (2-1-1 ratio)10 - 6 - 4 (2-1-1 ratio)
10 -10 -10 (1-1-1 ratio)10 -10 -10 (1-1-1 ratio)

Ag-Gro-Pro
5-10-
15 50 lbs.
This bag contains:
5% nitrogen--10%
phosphate--15% potash
or
2.5 lbs. nitrogen
5 lbs.
phosphate
7.5 lbs. potash
What does a fertilizer guarantee mean?What does a fertilizer guarantee mean?

Common Fertilizers
• UreaUrea 46 - 0 - 046 - 0 - 0
• Ammonium nitrateAmmonium nitrate 34 - 0 - 034 - 0 - 0
• UANUAN 30 - 0 - 030 - 0 - 0
• Ammonium sulfateAmmonium sulfate 21 - 0 - 021 - 0 - 0
• Diammonium phosphateDiammonium phosphate 18 - 46 - 018 - 46 - 0
• Triple superphosphateTriple superphosphate 0 - 46 - 00 - 46 - 0
• Muriate of potashMuriate of potash 0 - 0 - 600 - 0 - 60

Determining Fertilizer Need
Production Goal: Total lb/A N - P - KProduction Goal: Total lb/A N - P - K
soil reservesoil reserve -- N –P - KN –P - K
crop residuecrop residue -- NN
manuremanure -- N - P - KN - P - K
____________________________
Commercial fertilizer + lb/A N - P - KCommercial fertilizer + lb/A N - P - K

Example: Calculating the Quantity of
Commercial Fertilizer Required to meet a
Nutrient Recommendation
Jasper Little Farm:Jasper Little Farm:
• needs 60 lbs./A of potash (Kneeds 60 lbs./A of potash (K22O) on hisO) on his
soybean cropsoybean crop
• broadcasts muriate of potash (0-0-60)broadcasts muriate of potash (0-0-60)
pre-plantpre-plant
• see Example 4-1, p.18 in training guidesee Example 4-1, p.18 in training guide

Calculating Quantity of
Commercial Fertilizer
1) RECORD recommended quantity of1) RECORD recommended quantity of
nutrient (see nutrient managementnutrient (see nutrient management
plan).plan).
2) RECORD the percentage of nutrient2) RECORD the percentage of nutrient
in the preferred product, muriate ofin the preferred product, muriate of
potash.potash.
3) CONVERT the percentage of3) CONVERT the percentage of
nutrient to a decimal fraction bynutrient to a decimal fraction by
multiplying the % by .01multiplying the % by .01
60 lbs./A
60%
60 x 0.01 = .60

Calculating the Quantity of
Commercial Fertilizer
CALCULATE the quantity of muriate of
potash required in lbs./A: divide the
recommended quantity of nutrient by
the nutrient content expressed as a
decimal fraction.
Little needs 100 lbs. of muriate ofLittle needs 100 lbs. of muriate of
potash to supply 60 lbs. of potash.potash to supply 60 lbs. of potash.
Done!Done!
60 lbs./A ÷ 0.60 = 100 lbs./A

Determining Production
Goal
• Cropping historyCropping history
• Soil Survey Map/Soil Capability ChartSoil Survey Map/Soil Capability Chart
• Investigate species/variety potentialInvestigate species/variety potential
- other growers- other growers
- field days- field days
- private and university trial results- private and university trial results
• FSA recordsFSA records
• ExperimentationExperimentation

MASCAP
MARYLAND’S
AGRONOMIC SOIL
CAPABILITY
ASSESSMENT
PROGRAM
Va. A. Bandel, and
E.A. Heger
Agronomy Department
Cooperative Extension
Service
University of Maryland
September 1994
Determining Yield GoalDetermining Yield Goal
• Take the average yield for typicalTake the average yield for typical
years that a crop is grown in a certainyears that a crop is grown in a certain
field.field.
• Estimate yields goal by averaging theEstimate yields goal by averaging the
yield from the best 3 of 5 growingyield from the best 3 of 5 growing
seasons.seasons.
• When actual yield data is notWhen actual yield data is not
available, estimated yields for the soilavailable, estimated yields for the soil
type in the field can be found intype in the field can be found in
“MASCAP”.“MASCAP”.

Soil Reserve
• Soil testSoil test
- university lab- university lab
- private labs- private labs
• Frequency of testingFrequency of testing
- depends on crop and management- depends on crop and management
• Typical test looks at P, K, Ca, Mg,Typical test looks at P, K, Ca, Mg,
O.M., and pH. Minors are as needed.O.M., and pH. Minors are as needed.

Fig. 1-1: Phosphate RecommendationFig. 1-1: Phosphate Recommendation (lbs/A)(lbs/A)
as a function of soil fertility level (FIV-P)
for corn grain (yield goal-150 bu/A)
110
85
70
65
45 45
35
30
20 20
0
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
10
30
50
70
90
110
FIV-P
Low Medium Optimum Excessive
# P205/A

Crop Residue
• Benefits left by a previous crop orBenefits left by a previous crop or
cover cropcover crop
• Previous crops leave little unless itPrevious crops leave little unless it
was a leguminous cropwas a leguminous crop
• Leguminous crops leave nitrogenLeguminous crops leave nitrogen
• The amount of N left depends on theThe amount of N left depends on the
species of legume and the standspecies of legume and the stand
density and maturity.density and maturity.
• Cover crops are not harvested and willCover crops are not harvested and will
recover nutrients otherwise lost.

ManureManure
Analysis is available from the University
of Maryland’s Soil Testing Laboratory.

How much of the nitrogen inHow much of the nitrogen in
manure is plant-available?manure is plant-available?
It depends on:It depends on:
** the nitrogen contentthe nitrogen content
** animal speciesanimal species
** incorporation practicesincorporation practices

3
9
Ammonium
nitrogen
Organic
nitrogen
Figure 2- 3b. Distribution of organic nitrogenFigure 2- 3b. Distribution of organic nitrogen
& ammonium nitrogen in dairy manure& ammonium nitrogen in dairy manure
This dairy manure contains 12 pounds of total nitrogen per ton.

Available Organic NitrogenAvailable Organic Nitrogen
Only part of the nitrogen in manure
becomes plant-available -- through the
process of mineralization -- the year
it’s applied.

Nitrogen “Credits”Nitrogen “Credits”
• Organic nitrogen in organic sourcesOrganic nitrogen in organic sources
continues to break down or mineralizecontinues to break down or mineralize
for several years after application.for several years after application.
• The largest proportion of this organicThe largest proportion of this organic
nitrogen breaks down and becomesnitrogen breaks down and becomes
available in the year of application.available in the year of application.
• Organic sources include manure,Organic sources include manure,
biosolids (sludge), and composts.biosolids (sludge), and composts.

Nitrogen “Credits”Nitrogen “Credits”
• Progressively smaller amounts of theProgressively smaller amounts of the
organic nitrogen break down andorganic nitrogen break down and
become available in the subsequentbecome available in the subsequent
years.years.
• Credit needs to be given to thisCredit needs to be given to this
available nitrogen from previouslyavailable nitrogen from previously
applied manure to the current year’sapplied manure to the current year’s
nitrogen recommendation.nitrogen recommendation.

Ammonium
nitrogen
Available
ammonium
nitrogen
Available
organic
nitrogen
Organic
nitrogen
Figure 2- 4b: Distribution of Available NitrogenFigure 2- 4b: Distribution of Available Nitrogen
from Organic and Ammonium Nitrogenfrom Organic and Ammonium Nitrogen
Components in Dairy ManureComponents in Dairy Manure
This dairy manure contains 12 pounds of total nitrogen and
5.4 pounds of available nitrogen per ton
2.4 lb
0.6
lb
3 lb
6 lb

Don’t Overload!
A funny slide to breakup the class. This could be an Iraqi surface to air
missile.

Manure Mineralization FactorsManure Mineralization Factors
•Vary by animal species.
•See Table 2-1 in the
Nutrient Applicator Guide.
The mineralization rate of manure varies
between animal species. A table
explaining these differences can be found
in the Nutrient Applicator Guide on page
10.

• NHNH44 is a plant-available form of N.is a plant-available form of N.
• When manure is left on the soil surface afterWhen manure is left on the soil surface after
application, it can be lost through theapplication, it can be lost through the
process ofprocess of volatilizationvolatilization..
Nitrogen LossNitrogen Loss
Available Ammonium NitrogenAvailable Ammonium Nitrogen

Estimated Manure Values
• Dairy (fresh, spread daily)Dairy (fresh, spread daily)
89% moist. 7 - 3 - 6 (lb/T)89% moist. 7 - 3 - 6 (lb/T)
• Dairy (stored outside, leachate lost)Dairy (stored outside, leachate lost)
87% moist. 3 - 2.5 - 4 (lb/T)87% moist. 3 - 2.5 - 4 (lb/T)
• Poultry (layer stored in pit)Poultry (layer stored in pit)
65% moist. 25 - 27 - 24 (lb/T)65% moist. 25 - 27 - 24 (lb/T)
• Swine (storage tank beneath slottedSwine (storage tank beneath slotted
floor)floor) 95% moist. 2.5 - 3 - 5 (lb/T)95% moist. 2.5 - 3 - 5 (lb/T)
• Beef (bedded manure pack under roof)Beef (bedded manure pack under roof)
80% moist. 5 - 4 - 8 (lb/T)

Example: Calculating Quantity of DairyExample: Calculating Quantity of Dairy
Manure to Meet Crop NutrientManure to Meet Crop Nutrient
RecommendationRecommendation
Ralph Gonzales Farm
• PAN content of semi-solid dairyPAN content of semi-solid dairy
manure is 6 lbs./Tmanure is 6 lbs./T
• wants to supply the N for his corn cropwants to supply the N for his corn crop
• yield goal is 120 bu/Ayield goal is 120 bu/A
• incorporates the manure the same dayincorporates the manure the same day
as applicationas application
• see Example 4-2, p.19 in training guidesee Example 4-2, p.19 in training guide

Calculating Quantity of Dairy ManureCalculating Quantity of Dairy Manure
to Meet Recommendationto Meet Recommendation
Note: The nitrogen recommendationNote: The nitrogen recommendation
for corn grain is 1 lb./A of PAN perfor corn grain is 1 lb./A of PAN per
bushel of yield.bushel of yield.
1) RECORD nitrogen recommendation1) RECORD nitrogen recommendation
(lbs./A) from the nutrient management(lbs./A) from the nutrient management
plan.plan.
2) RECORD PAN of manure (lbs./T)2) RECORD PAN of manure (lbs./T)
120 lbs./A
6 lbs./T

Calculating Quantity of Dairy ManureCalculating Quantity of Dairy Manure
to Meet Recommendationto Meet Recommendation
CALCULATE the quantity of manure
required in T/A: divide the nitrogen
recommendation by the PAN of manure.
Twenty tons of a dairy manure withTwenty tons of a dairy manure with
this PAN are needed to provide 120this PAN are needed to provide 120
lbs./A of PAN.lbs./A of PAN.
Done!Done!
120 lbs./A ÷ 6 = 20 T/A

Use of Raw Manure
• Heavy applications can throw offHeavy applications can throw off
nutrient balancenutrient balance
• Excess available N can lead toExcess available N can lead to
excessive growth and nitrate buildupexcessive growth and nitrate buildup
in plantin plant
• Plants with high nitrates do not storePlants with high nitrates do not store
as well and attract insectsas well and attract insects
• Nitrogen and phosphorus areNitrogen and phosphorus are
pollutantspollutants
• Weed seeds pass through animals

Often Forgotten Sources of N
• Carryover from past manure/biosolidsCarryover from past manure/biosolids
• Cover crops ( fixed & recycled N)Cover crops ( fixed & recycled N)
• N released from soil organic matterN released from soil organic matter
(40-80 lb/A)(40-80 lb/A)
• Nitrates in rain & irrigation waterNitrates in rain & irrigation water
• Weeds, plowed down have slow-release N,Weeds, plowed down have slow-release N,
85 lb/T pigweed, 80 lb/T lambsquarter85 lb/T pigweed, 80 lb/T lambsquarter
• Crop residues, humus, bedding, andCrop residues, humus, bedding, and
compostscomposts

The Nitrogen Cycle
Atmospheric
nitrogen
Atmospheric
fixation
and deposition
Animal
manures
and biosolids
Industrial fixation
(commercial fertilizers)
Crop
harvest
Volatilization
Denitrification
Runoff and
erosion
Leaching
Organic
nitrogen
Ammonium
(NH4)
Nitrate
(NO3)
Plant
residues
Biological
fixation by
legume plants Plant
uptake
Im
m
obilization
Im
m
obilization
M
ineralization
M
ineralization
Input to soilComponent Loss from soil
-
+

The Phosphorus Cycle
Animal
manures
and biosolids Mineral
fertilizers
Crop
harvest
Runoff and
erosion
Leaching
(usually minor)
Organic phosphorus
•Microbial
•Plant residue
•Humus
Primary
minerals
(apatite)
Plant
residues
Plant
uptake
Soil solution
phosphorus
•HPO4
-2
•H2PO4
-1
Secondary
compounds
(CaP, FeP, MnP, AlP)
DissolutionDissolution
PrecipitationPrecipitation
Mineral
surfaces
(clays, Fe and
Al oxides,
carbonates)W
eathering
W
eathering
Adsorption
Adsorption
Mineralization
Mineralization
Immobilization
Immobilization
Desorption
Desorption
Atmospheric
deposition

The Potassium Cycle
Animal
manures
and biosolids
Mineral
fertilizers
Crop
harvest
Runoff and
erosion
Leaching
Soil solution
potassium (K+
)
Plant
residues
Plant
uptake
Mineral
potassium
Fixed
potassium
Exchangeable
potassium

The Sulfur Cycle
Animal
manures
and biosolids
Mineral
fertilizers
Crop
harvest
Runoff and
erosion
Leaching
Absorbed or
mineral sulfur
Plant
residues
Plant
uptake
Sulfate
Sulfur
(SO4)
Atmospheric
sulfur
Elemental
sulfur
Organic
sulfur Immobilization
Immobilization
Mineralization
Mineralization
Bacterial reduction
Bacterial reduction
Bacterial oxidation
Bacterial oxidation
O
xidation
O
xidation
SOSO22 gasgas
Reduced sulfur
Volatilization
Atmospheric
deposition
-

Fertilizer Application Terms
• BroadcastBroadcast
- fertilizer is applied uniformly to- fertilizer is applied uniformly to
entire field before crop emergesentire field before crop emerges
• TopdressTopdress
- fertilizer is applied uniformly to- fertilizer is applied uniformly to
entire field after crop emergesentire field after crop emerges
• Plowed down or tilled inPlowed down or tilled in
- fertilizer is applied to field then is- fertilizer is applied to field then is
tilled in with a disk or a plowtilled in with a disk or a plow

Fertilizer Application Terms
• BandedBanded
- fertilizer is applied directly over- fertilizer is applied directly over
the top of the crop row, generallythe top of the crop row, generally
before the crop emerges, omittingbefore the crop emerges, omitting
the area between the rowsthe area between the rows
• Side-dressedSide-dressed
- fertilizer is applied directly to- fertilizer is applied directly to
growing crop, generally in a bandgrowing crop, generally in a band
at the base of the plantat the base of the plant

Calibrating NutrientCalibrating Nutrient
Application EquipmentApplication Equipment
• Calibration is a way to set yourCalibration is a way to set your
application equipment to applyapplication equipment to apply
material uniformly at the desired rate.material uniformly at the desired rate.
• It insures application of the requiredIt insures application of the required
amount of nutrients without over-amount of nutrients without over-
fertilizing.fertilizing.
• Two common methods are used:Two common methods are used:
- weight-area method- weight-area method
- load-area methodload-area method

Basics of Calibration
Width
Area = Length x Width
L
e
n
g
t
h
Width
L
e
n
g
t
h
Determining the square feet in an area is basic to
the calibration of farm equipment. The size of an
area can be determined by multiplying length X
width.

How to Calibrate NutrientHow to Calibrate Nutrient
Application EquipmentApplication Equipment
• Measure the actual rate of application.Measure the actual rate of application.
• Compare actual application rate to theCompare actual application rate to the
recommended application rate.recommended application rate.
• If the application rate is substantiallyIf the application rate is substantially
greater or less than the recommendedgreater or less than the recommended
rate, try:rate, try:
-- changing equipment settings, orchanging equipment settings, or
- changing ground speed of the- changing ground speed of the
tractortractor

Load-Area MethodLoad-Area Method
Know:Know:
• capacity of the spreadercapacity of the spreader
• size of the area where manure issize of the area where manure is
spreadspread
Apply nutrient supplying material,Apply nutrient supplying material,
then measure area of application.then measure area of application.
Project rate of application to a per-acreProject rate of application to a per-acre
basis.basis.

Weight-Area Method forWeight-Area Method for
ManureManure
1. Arrange at least 3 plastic sheets in the center1. Arrange at least 3 plastic sheets in the center
of the spreader’s path.of the spreader’s path.
2. Drive the spreader over the center of the2. Drive the spreader over the center of the
sheets at a known speed with specificsheets at a known speed with specific
equipment settings.equipment settings.
3. Collect & weigh the manure on each sheet.3. Collect & weigh the manure on each sheet.
4. Average the quantity applied to the sheets4. Average the quantity applied to the sheets
and project to T/A.and project to T/A.

Weight-Area Method
• Works well with calibrating fertilizerWorks well with calibrating fertilizer
spreaders and planters.spreaders and planters.
• Works well with calibrating both dry andWorks well with calibrating both dry and
liquid manure spreaders.liquid manure spreaders.
- pans can be used to catch liquid manure- pans can be used to catch liquid manure
- plastic sheets can be used to catch dry- plastic sheets can be used to catch dry
manuremanure

Basics of Calibration
Using Sheets and Pans
1 2 3
91 7
8
4 6
5
10
2
3
Spread manure
Spread manure
This diagram shows how pans and sheets can be arranged in a field to calibrate a spreader.

Refer to your “Nutrient
Applicator’s Training Guide “
for additional help

Let’s take a quick look at some
other materials we apply to
our soils.

LimestoneLimestone
• Supplies calcium and magnesiumSupplies calcium and magnesium
• Mined calcium carbonate is theMined calcium carbonate is the
principle liming material, typicallyprinciple liming material, typically
50% oxides50% oxides
• CaCOCaCO33 equivalent is the basis forequivalent is the basis for
liming material recommendation ratesliming material recommendation rates
• Comes in various forms and gradesComes in various forms and grades

Effective Neutralizing ValueEffective Neutralizing Value
E.N.V.E.N.V.
This is a comparative value that refersThis is a comparative value that refers
to the ability of a liming material toto the ability of a liming material to
modify soil pH within a year.modify soil pH within a year.
Reference Standard:Reference Standard:
Calcium carbonate (CaCOCalcium carbonate (CaCO33))
E.N.V.= 100E.N.V.= 100
Comparing Liming Materials
This means that liming
materials are compared
(greater than or less than) to
the neutralizing ability of
calcium carbonate. E.N.V.
can be found on the labels of
liming materials and fertilizer
as an indicator of the
products impact on soil pH.

LimestoneLimestone
• Mesh size determines how quickly itMesh size determines how quickly it
reacts in the soilreacts in the soil
• Good quality ag lime is typically 80%Good quality ag lime is typically 80%
90-100 mesh and 20% 40 mesh90-100 mesh and 20% 40 mesh
• Ground dolomite (dolomitic lime) isGround dolomite (dolomitic lime) is
over 10% magnesium; it is a goodover 10% magnesium; it is a good
source of Mg when neededsource of Mg when needed

Other Liming AgentsOther Liming Agents
• These are typically industrialThese are typically industrial
byproductsbyproducts
• These include stack dust, sludge lime,These include stack dust, sludge lime,
and river mudand river mud
• Domino Sugar lime is a new sourceDomino Sugar lime is a new source
• Solubility and % oxides vary, so get anSolubility and % oxides vary, so get an
analysisanalysis
• These contain mostly Ca and traces ofThese contain mostly Ca and traces of
other elements and materialsother elements and materials

Liming RecommendationsLiming Recommendations
• Know the analysis, especially % oxidesKnow the analysis, especially % oxides --
Application rate is based on lb/AApplication rate is based on lb/A
oxidesoxides
• % calcium and magnesium% calcium and magnesium - may not- may not
need additional Mgneed additional Mg
• Oxide form of calcium (CaO) is readilyOxide form of calcium (CaO) is readily
availableavailable
• Mesh size of carbonate form of CaMesh size of carbonate form of Ca
(CaCO(CaCO33 )) reflects its availabilityreflects its availability --
smaller particles work fastersmaller particles work faster

Liming NotesLiming Notes
• Limestone recommendations are based onLimestone recommendations are based on
raising the pH of the plow layer (top 7-9”)raising the pH of the plow layer (top 7-9”)
to 6.5; except for special crops; i.e. alfalfa.to 6.5; except for special crops; i.e. alfalfa.
• Limited to 1,500 lb/A oxides/year when notLimited to 1,500 lb/A oxides/year when not
incorporating; i.e. pasturesincorporating; i.e. pastures
• Avoid applying liming products andAvoid applying liming products and
fertilizer at, or around the same time.fertilizer at, or around the same time.
• Liming materials laying on the surface willLiming materials laying on the surface will
neutralize pesticides.neutralize pesticides.

CompostCompost
Decomposed Plant & animal MatterDecomposed Plant & animal Matter
• When correctly done:When correctly done:
- pH is near neutral- pH is near neutral
- C:N ratio is 15:1- C:N ratio is 15:1
- Majority of weed seeds & disease- Majority of weed seeds & disease
organisms are deadorganisms are dead
- Offers a well balanced slow release- Offers a well balanced slow release
supply of nutrientssupply of nutrients
- As much as 1/4 of compost weight is- As much as 1/4 of compost weight is
microbes (dead & alive)microbes (dead & alive)

Principles of CompostingPrinciples of Composting
• Best composts come from piles withBest composts come from piles with
the highest microbial activitythe highest microbial activity
• Temperature is easiest sign ofTemperature is easiest sign of
microbial activitymicrobial activity
• Good composts heat to approximatelyGood composts heat to approximately
140 - 160140 - 16000
F within the first 3 or 4 daysF within the first 3 or 4 days

Principles of CompostingPrinciples of Composting
• Small particle size makes a greaterSmall particle size makes a greater
surface area available to microbessurface area available to microbes
- particles that are too small- particles that are too small
however can pack a pilehowever can pack a pile
• Adequate volume, or size of pile keepsAdequate volume, or size of pile keeps
it from cooling too quicklyit from cooling too quickly
- piles 4 x 4 x 4 ft. do well- piles 4 x 4 x 4 ft. do well

Unfinished CompostsUnfinished Composts
• Can hurt cropsCan hurt crops
• Chemicals formed in process are toxicChemicals formed in process are toxic
to plantsto plants
• N can be tied upN can be tied up
• Good composts take 12 - 18 monthsGood composts take 12 - 18 months
• Moisture must be adequate (50 - 70%)Moisture must be adequate (50 - 70%)
similar to a squeezed spongesimilar to a squeezed sponge
• C:N ratio in initial pile should be 30:1C:N ratio in initial pile should be 30:1

Common C:N RatiosCommon C:N Ratios
• Undisturbed top soilUndisturbed top soil 10:110:1
• AlfalfaAlfalfa 13:113:1
• Rotted barnyard manureRotted barnyard manure 20:120:1
• Corn stalksCorn stalks 60:160:1
• Small grain strawSmall grain straw 80:180:1
• OakOak 200:1200:1
• SpruceSpruce 1000:11000:1

Compost Problem SolvingCompost Problem Solving
• Bad OdorBad Odor
- not enough air- not enough air
- turn the pile more frequently- turn the pile more frequently
• Center of pile too dryCenter of pile too dry
- not enough water- not enough water
- moisten while turning- moisten while turning

Compost Problem SolvingCompost Problem Solving
• Pile is damp & warm in center, but nowherePile is damp & warm in center, but nowhere
elseelse
- pile is too small- pile is too small
- collect more material and mix the old- collect more material and mix the old
ingredients into a new pileingredients into a new pile
• Pile is damp and sweet smelling, but willPile is damp and sweet smelling, but will
not heat upnot heat up
- lack of nitrogen- lack of nitrogen
- mix in N-rich material like fresh- mix in N-rich material like fresh
grass, manure, or ureagrass, manure, or urea

Crop Rotation and Cover CropsCrop Rotation and Cover Crops
• Benefits crop fertilityBenefits crop fertility
- fixed and recaptured nutrients- fixed and recaptured nutrients
• Benefits soil structure (tilth)Benefits soil structure (tilth)
- cover crops add organic matter- cover crops add organic matter
- variability in root growth- variability in root growth
improves soil pores and waterimproves soil pores and water
penetrationpenetration
• Pest managementPest management
- breaks the parasite life cycle- breaks the parasite life cycle
• Harvest vs. cover crop is the decisionHarvest vs. cover crop is the decision

Some Parting AdviceSome Parting Advice
• Seek help when you are not sure about whatSeek help when you are not sure about what
you are doing. There are a lot of resourcesyou are doing. There are a lot of resources
out there for you.out there for you.
• Don’t be like the old farmer who told theDon’t be like the old farmer who told the
County Agent that he did not need anyCounty Agent that he did not need any
advice. He told the Agent that he hasadvice. He told the Agent that he has
already worn out two farms and that he hadalready worn out two farms and that he had
his own way of doing things.his own way of doing things.

Basics of crop production

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