Farmers Cut Phosphorus Costs with Data-Driven Approaches

Phosphorus is an essential nutrient for crops, particularly corn and soybeans, according to Dana Harder, agronomist for Burrus Seed. However, with elevated fertilizer prices, farmers can use soil test results and grain testing to identify where to scale back phosphorus applications.

Holly Spangler notes that determining where to spend money and cut back is crucial for farm economics during tight times. To optimize phosphorus applications, experts recommend maintaining optimal pH levels between 6.0 and 6.8, understanding grain removal rates, and keeping up-to-date on soil testing.

Harder suggests sticking to a three-year testing cycle and knowing the standard recommendation of 25 parts per million (ppm) or about 50 pounds of phosphorus per acre based on yield response, not economic return.