Fertiliser recommendations: what role do they play?
Fertiliser recommendations are a critical component of effective nutrient management in agriculture. By analysing soil results and aligning them with crop yield targets, fertiliser recommendations ensure that crops receive the precise and necessary nutrients for optimal growth. Our tailored approach not only maximizes crop productivity but also promotes cost-effective nutrient use, with the knock-on benefit of compliance with environmental regulations.
Understanding the benefits of nutrient management planning
- Accurate and exact nutrient requirements based on your crops: By using soil data and understanding crop nutrient demands, fertiliser recommendations provide precise guidance on the types and amounts of nutrients required for optimal crop growth. This accuracy helps to avoid nutrient deficiencies or excesses that can negatively impact yield and quality.
- Balanced fertiliser programme: Fertiliser recommendations help you to achieve a balanced nutrient application approach, considering the specific nutrient ratios needed for different crops. This targeted approach minimises wastage, reduces unnecessary nutrient inputs, and promotes cost-effective fertiliser use.
- Recommend bespoke fertiliser blends: We can provide guidance on the use of customised fertiliser blends based on your crops and soil data. These blends are formulated to meet the unique needs of the crops, optimising nutrient delivery and uptake.
- Integration with organic manures: Fertiliser recommendations can be developed in conjunction with the integration of organic manures. By incorporating organic nutrient sources into the overall fertiliser plan, the recommendations ensure a balanced and sustainable approach to nutrient management.
- Ensure compliance with Nitrate Vulnerable Zones, farming Rules for Water, and Code of Good Agricultural Practice: Fertiliser recommendations are designed to help you meet and adhere to environmental regulations and best practices. By following these guidelines, you can contribute to the protection of water quality and the wider environment.
What does our fertiliser recommendation process look like?
In our nutrient management process, each field or sampled soil area is meticulously entered into the Farmwise software (based on RB209), capturing a comprehensive understanding of your farm’s plans, yield expectations, compliance requirements, crop rotation practices, and budget considerations. In addition, we take into account the goal of improving soil health and organic matter content.
We then generate a detailed and tailored fertiliser recommendation. Our recommendations are developed on a thorough analysis of the specific needs of each farm, ensuring that the nutrient application aligns with the unique requirements of your crops and soil.
We will then work through the year with you to offer support on real time decisions and how the plan can be adapted with the flexing of weather, environmental and market conditions.
The integration of technology plays a vital role in our approach. All fertiliser recommendations are compiled and recorded in Farmwise, so you have a comprehensive historical record for each growing season. Additionally, you can access a live feed of fertiliser recommendations, which allows for real-time monitoring and adjustment.
If you are seeking enhanced precision and efficiency, our system can be seamlessly linked with GPS/precision farming technology. This integration allows for variable rate application of fertilisers, ensuring that the nutrients are distributed accurately and optimally across every field. This approach maximises nutrient use and minimises wastage.
Expert nutrient advisers
Throughout the process, our team of FACTS qualified staff, who are also members of the BASIS professional register, provide expert advice and guidance. Their expertise and knowledge ensure that the fertiliser recommendations are scientifically sound, practical, and in compliance with industry standards.
Talk to us about our fertiliser recommendation service.
