Wet Fields Cause Fertilizer Loss, Compaction Concerns

December 1, 2008

Late harvest and wet weather is preventing some farmers from timely fertilizer applications this fall. Instead of still applying this fall, U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) State Agronomist Barb Stewart suggests farmers sidedress fertilizer in the spring. 

“Wet, saturated soils can cause nitrogen loss. Wet soils can prevent the soil from sealing during anhydrous ammonia application resulting in lost nitrogen,” she said. 

Stewart also reminds farmers about the risks associated with compaction. “Running field equipment over wet soils can also lead to compaction which can reduce yields for years,” she said.

“To reduce potential nitrogen loss and compaction, farmers should consider sidedressing fields in the spring as part of your fertilizer program,” Stewart said.

“You can utilize late spring nitrate tests and tailor fertilizer applications to give plants exactly what they need. That can save farmers money, reduce nitrogen losses, and improve water quality.”

For other money and soil saving suggestions see your local NRCS county office.

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Contact:
Barb Stewart, 515-284-4370

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