Minnesota Crop News

The FRST project partners are proud to announce the nationwide release of the FRST (Fertilizer Recommendation Support Tool), a decision-aid that provides an unbiased, science-based interpretation of soil test phosphorus and potassium values for crop fertilization. The FRST project is a collaboration of over 100 soil science and agronomic professionals representing nearly 50 universities, four divisions of the USDA, several not-for-profit organizations, and one private sector partner. This diverse partnership underscores the collective effort and expertise invested in the development of FRST. The University of Minnesota is represented on the project by Extension nutrient management specialist Daniel Kaiser. Kaiser noted that, “while the FRST group is excited about the launch of the decision support too, the tool is the first step in a process to evaluate fertilizer decisions and will still need research support to add additional data to the database behind the fertilizer recommendation

By: Dan Kaiser, Extension nutrient management specialist I have received a few questions this spring regarding nutrient management considerations for fields with unharvested sugarbeets. The main question is whether the sugarbeets left in the field could provide a potential nitrogen (N) credit for this year’s crop. The issue this spring seems to be directed towards the northwest Minnesota growing region, and the answer on what to do is a bit more complicated with more crops potentially being grown in 2024. However, here are a few key takeaways. Can you take a nitrogen credit? While many would consider there to be some potential for additional N availability, there is no credit given to the unharvested portion of the beet. Beet tops alone might provide an N credit to next year’s (2025’s) crops depending on how green the beets were when the tops were removed. However, the decomposing root can actually tie up nitrogen for the 2024 crop, so adjustments may need to be made where N rates are

Bob Koch, Extension soybean entomologist The 2024 Field School for Ag Professionals will be held July 30 and 31 at the University of Minnesota Agriculture Experiment Station in St. Paul.  This two-day event is the premier summer training opportunity that combines hands-on, interactive training with real world field scenarios.  The first day of the Field School program focuses on core principles in agronomy, entomology, weed and soil sciences to build a strong foundation of skills and knowledge. The second day builds on this foundation with timely, cutting-edge topics that participants can select.  This program is targeted toward agronomists, crop production retailers, seed dealers, consultants, crop protection industry representatives, Extension educators, government agency personnel, and summer field scouts. First day program The first day's program will be held on Tuesday, July 30 with registration starting at 8:00 am, orientation beginning at 8:45 am and the individual sessions

By Liz Stahl, Extension Educator - Crops, Phyllis Bongard, Educational Content Development & Communications Specialist, and Anna Cates, Extension Specialist in Soil Health Register now to reserve your spot with the University of Minnesota Cover Crop Academy! This new, innovative program is a hybrid, year-long, statewide course designed for those who work with farmers including crop advisors, consultants, educators, agency personnel, agronomists, ag lenders, and personnel at non-profits, Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD) and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) offices. This unique opportunity will take a deep dive into cover crops and will be tailored to Minnesota cropping systems and conditions. We will address the challenges and opportunities associated with using cover crops in Minnesota and attendees will be able to participate in research trials members develop to help address some of the unknowns around cover crops. The academy will kick off with in-

In this episode of the Nutrient Management Podcast, we’re talking about soybean fertilizer management. What should farmers who are growing soybeans this year be thinking about, including IDC concerns from last year? What does new research tell us about soybean and sulfur? Are there other nutrients or practices that you do or don't suggest for soybean based on current research? What tips do you have for Minnesota soybean growers looking to increase yield? TRANSCRIPT Guests: Daniel Kaiser, Extension nutrient management specialist (St. Paul) Jeff Vetsch, U of M researcher (Waseca) Seth Naeve, Extension soybean agronomist (St. Paul) Additional resources: Managing iron deficiency chlorosis in soybean Is it worth applying sulfur to your soybean crop? Sulfur fertilizer application: Does S carry over from one year to the next? Soybean fertilizer guidelines --- For the latest nutrient management information, subscribe to the Nutrient Management Podcast wherever you listen and never miss an

 Anibal Cerrudo, Researcher, and Seth Naeve, Extension soybean agronomist Key points Photo: Dave Nicolai Early soybean planting can lead to higher yields : Early planting offers advantages in resource utilization, potentially resulting in increased yields compared to delayed planting. Consideration of frost dates and plant-to-emergence stage is essential : When planning early planting, it's crucial to assess the local risk of late frosts after emergence, germination chilling injuries, and the duration of the plant-to-emergence stage to determine optimal planting windows. Seed quality and protection are imperative : Ensuring seed vigor and employing technologies like fungicides and insecticides are essential for early plantings to enhance crop resilience against environmental challenges. Utilize available data and technologies : weather records, leveraging local monitoring, weather forecasts, and seed technologies can aid farmers in making informed decisions to reduce risks while s