Variable-Rate Fertilization

The need for variable-rate fertilization (VRF) rather than just applying a constant rate of fertilizer across the field is a reality. Local fertilizer trials are confirming this need and are helping to pave the way for successful VRF fertilizer prescriptions. It is not the easy road but in the long-run it will certainly help to allocate fertilizer resources to maximize profit potential.

Implementing a VRF Program

The map above illustrates one of the VRF programs that is currently being implemented by one of our clients. The eroded knoll is accurately mapped into a specific zone along with other eroded knolls. 

There are many VRF philosophies and they all have some merit. However, we would not recommend any single approach as a magic bullet. Local areas have many similar characteristics, but you don't have to travel very far before the dynamics change and the process has to change along with it.

Soil fertility is a dynamic cycle and as such, it is a moving target. Short-term versus long-term, dry year versus wet year, zero-till versus conventional till, and the list goes on and on as no two farms have identical management histories and no two fields are exactly alike.

Micro-managing fertility with VRF is an elusive target, but target practice makes perfect.

Explore the MAPS section of our website to review the layers of data we use to develop VRF zone and prescription MAPS. For services available to implement VRF on you farm go to our services available section.