The Importance of Fertilization in Forage Crops – Starters and Nitrogen
Several starter fertilization tests have been carried out over the past few years and it is very rewarding to see a reliable higher level of profitability with a Premium starter.
Click here to access the guide on fertilization in forage crops
Starters
The composition of solid and liquid manures does not match the needs of forage plants. The use of synthetic fertilizers is necessary to maintain soil fertility and balance, and to provide forage plants with all the essential nutrients to obtain high yields and quality. The starter is essential to the success of this crop. Indeed, as a plant is already established, it has an early need for nutrients in the spring, but the soil is cold and wet, and therefore has a low capacity to provide nutrients.
Nitrogen fertilization of forage
A good fertilization plan must integrate the withdrawal and exports from plants such as potassium, phosphorus, boron, sulphur, etc. but also provide the nitrogen necessary to reach yield objectives. As the forage plants’ needs in nitrogen are high, efficient management is essential. The application of fertilizers after each cut makes up for the withdrawal and exports, and makes it possible to quickly restart the production cycle of the plant.
