Fall is getting closer, and as the days get cooler, the window for fall nitrogen applications starts to open.
Now is a great time to check equipment and make any necessary repairs. Taking a little bit of time now will help ensure you’re ready to roll as soon as the weather is right and soil is fit for fall nitrogen.
Whether you are applying anhydrous ammonia or liquid manure this fall, Andrew Luzum, Nutrient Maximizer strategic account manager, Corteva Agriscience, has tips for application prep.
Anhydrous Application Prep
First, Luzum recommends looking over every piece of equipment very carefully. Look for signs of wear and tear and replace anything that looks broken or worn. Pay special attention to three smaller components — gaskets, hoses and valves — as these can wear out easily.
“Sunlight, kinks and cuts can shorten hose life and create soft spots that could break under pressure and put your safety at risk during application,” Luzum says. “Anhydrous ammonia can be a dangerous product when not handled correctly. By taking preventive measures, you can avoid safety issues and save time at application.”
He recommends making sure you have all necessary personal protective equipment ready to go in advance for your anhydrous applications so you can apply when conditions are right.
Liquid Manure Application Prep
When it comes to liquid manure applications, Luzum says, it’s also a good idea to do other prep work for liquid manure.
“I recommend taking samples to know the analysis and amounts of each nutrient in the manure beforehand,” he says. “This measurement will help determine rates for your manure management plan and plan ahead if you need to make additional applications of any of the nutrients.”
Making these repairs now will save you headaches when it’s time to apply.
Wait for the Right Time
Once you have your nitrogen application equipment prepped, it’s just a matter of waiting until the soil is fit to apply.
“Application of liquid manure and anhydrous ammonia should wait until soil temperatures are 50 degrees Fahrenheit and trending downward,” Luzum says. “That usually occurs in late October into early November. Warmer soils will drive nitrogen conversion and increase the risk of nitrogen loss. You also want to apply before the ground freezes, so the nitrogen can get into the soil.”
Take steps to prepare ahead, wait for the right time to apply and plan to protect your nitrogen with a proven stabilizer to get the best possible return on your investment — and help keep excess nitrogen out of the environment.
Learn more about protecting your nitrogen investment at NitrogenStabilizers.com.
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