Agronomy advice library

All of the crop nutrition advice from the Yara agronomists. Search through the entire archive using these filters or just browse through the library.

CerealsOilseedsRoot cropsLeafy cropsFruit cropsGrass and forageMaize
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Cereal crops

Barley, Oats, Rye and Wheat

Managing late drilled wheat crops
June 21, 2022

Managing late drilled wheat crops

Where drilling of winter wheat has been delayed, the crop nutrition strategy should be adapted to help recover the lost yield potential

Do you really need straight nitrogen
May 05, 2022

Do you really need straight nitrogen

Before ordering your straight nitrogen it is worth considering how much you actually need as it may be you actually need NS or NPKS grades instead.

Don't forget about sulphur
January 07, 2021

Don't forget about sulphur

Sulphur was often overlooked in the past but today it is recognised as an essential nutrient and considered just as important as nitrogen, so not to be forgotten.

Heavier fertiliser spreads further
April 29, 2022

Heavier fertiliser spreads further

Some fertilisers consistently spread further and more accurately than others. A heavier and larger fertiliser granule will spread further because the spreader can put more energy into it.

Agronomy Advice - Boron deficiencies in cereals shouldn’t be overlooked
April 20, 2022

Boron deficiencies in cereals shouldn’t be overlooked

Boron is generally an overlooked micronutrient and it is often wrongly assumed to be less important for cereals than for brassicas which have the highest boron requirement.

Agronomy Advice -Barley needs more micronutrients than just manganese
March 21, 2022

Barley needs more than just straight manganese

Most barley growers will be familiar with manganese deficiency and will recognise deficiency symptoms and understand the causes. However, other micronutrients, particularly copper and zinc are just as important yet tend to be overlooked.

Managing the nutrition of second wheats
March 06, 2022

Managing the nutrition of second wheats

When it comes to managing second wheat nutrition the main objective is to improve the biomass that is very often low due to later drillings and to increase nutrient supply which is often poor due to a compromised root system.

How to determine the optimum N rate for cereals
March 04, 2022

How to determine the optimum N rate for cereals

With only 50% of wheat crops having an optimum N rate close to the average figure and the other 50% varying by more than 15%, good determination of the required N rate is needed to avoid under or over fertilising fields.

Agronomy Advice - Are micronutrients an integral part of your wheat nutrition plan?
February 11, 2022

Are micronutrients an integral part of your wheat nutrition

Micronutrients should be an integral part of any wheat nutrition programme, not just to ensure successful establishment but to set the ultimate yield potential of the crop.

Micronutrients - deficiency prevention is better than cure
February 06, 2022

Micronutrients - deficiency prevention is better than cure

When it comes to micronutrients, prevention of a deficiency before crop losses occur is always better than correction after the damage has been done.

Managing cereal spring nutrition – what should I do?
January 28, 2022

Managing cereal spring nutrition – what should I do?

When faced with wide variation in crops it is important to use spring nutrition to manipulate the crops as best you can in order to get the most from what you have.

Foliar phosphate – energising cereal crops for spring growth
January 25, 2022

Foliar phosphate – energising cereal crops for spring growth

Many cereal crops struggle to get moving in early spring due to low phosphorus levels as a result of low phosphate availability. Giving these crops a quick 'energy boost' from foliar phosphate is the best way to get them started.

Foliar phosphate and zinc – let crops make better use of nitrogen
November 22, 2021

Let crops make better use of limited nitrogen

A poor or compromised root system, caused by phosphate deficiency will not allow plants to make the best use of limited nitrogen. Giving crops a boost from foliar phosphate together with zinc is the best way to build a big and healthy root system.

Managing crop stress under cold and dry conditions
April 12, 2021

Managing crop stress under cold and dry conditions

When frost and dry conditions combine to put abiotic stresses onto crops it is worthwhile considering the use of biostimulants such as YaraVita Biotrac which have been developed to alleviate stress.

Agronomy Advice - Spring nutrition influences straw strength
January 05, 2021

Spring nutrition influences straw strength

Deficiency of potassium, manganese or copper during stem extension will lead to weaker stems and increase the risk of lodging later in the season.

Spring fertiliser increases yield
November 15, 2019

Eight reasons why spring fertiliser increases yield

Spring applications of some fertilisers have been shown to produce increases in cereal yields. Here are eight agronomic reasons why you should apply phosphate and potash in the spring rather than in the autumn

Nitrogen use efficiency - how do we improve it
April 06, 2020

Nitrogen use efficiency - how do we improve it

Nitrogen use efficiency helps to understand the relationships between the total nitrogen input compared to the nitrogen output. This allows improvements to be made resulting in better efficiency, profitability and sustainability.

Nitrogen source and timing under cold conditions
February 28, 2020

Nitrogen source and timing under cold conditions

The first nitrogen application to cereals is the most rewarding so it is important to make the right decisions when it comes to nitrogen source and timing, especially under cold conditions.

Sulphur management in cereals
January 31, 2020

Sulphur management in cereals

Getting the most from your sulphur applications is critical for both yield and quality so it is worth reviewing your current practice to make sure you get the best response from sulphur.

Phosphate seed treatments promote better crop establishment
August 05, 2019

Phosphate seed treatments

Rapid establishment has always been important for cereals so optimising nutrition early on can help get crops off the the best start.

Straw removal removes nutrients too
August 23, 2018

Straw removal removes nutrients too

The value of straw means that much more of it than normal has been baled this harvest. But don't forget that the nutrients removed with the straw will need to be allowed for in next seasons fertiliser plans.

When is the best time to apply sulphur ?
April 02, 2018

When is the best time to apply sulphur ?

It is generally accepted that sulphur is an essential nutrient for all crops but there is still some confusion over the best time to apply sulphur.

Making sense of nitrogen
March 04, 2020

Making sense of nitrogen

There are many different types of nitrogen fertilisers available and it is important to make sure you are using the most efficient type of fertiliser. This article will help you to decide which nitrogen fertiliser is best for you.

Dig out the spade before planting
February 01, 2018

Dig out the spade before planting

Spring is fast approaching; time to get the spade out of the shed and do some soil sampling pre-spring planting.

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Oilseed crops

Oilseed Rape, Linseed

Planning for Successful Oilseed Establishment
July 29, 2022

Planning for Successful Oilseed Establishment

Oilseed rape can be a tricky crop to establish, so attention to detail is critical to overcome various obstacles that can affect early growth and development.

Do you really need straight nitrogen
May 05, 2022

Do you really need straight nitrogen

Before ordering your straight nitrogen it is worth considering how much you actually need as it may be you actually need NS or NPKS grades instead.

Don't forget about sulphur
January 07, 2021

Don't forget about sulphur

Sulphur was often overlooked in the past but today it is recognised as an essential nutrient and considered just as important as nitrogen, so not to be forgotten.

Heavier fertiliser spreads further
April 29, 2022

Heavier fertiliser spreads further

Some fertilisers consistently spread further and more accurately than others. A heavier and larger fertiliser granule will spread further because the spreader can put more energy into it.

Agronomy Advice - Micronutrients make a difference when it comes to oilseedutrition plan?
March 16, 2022

Micronutrients make a difference to oilseed crops

Micronutrients not only help ensure the successful establishment of oilseed crops but also help to set the ultimate yield potential of the crop.

Micronutrients - deficiency prevention is better than cure
February 06, 2022

Micronutrients - deficiency prevention is better than cure

When it comes to micronutrients, prevention of a deficiency before crop losses occur is always better than correction after the damage has been done.

Spring fertiliser increases yield
November 15, 2019

Eight reasons why spring fertiliser increases yield

Spring applications of some fertilisers have been shown to produce increases in cereal yields. Here are eight agronomic reasons why you should apply phosphate and potash in the spring rather than in the autumn

Agronomy Advice - How better nutrition can improve oilseed establishment
September 23, 2021

How better nutrition can improve oilseed establishment

Nutrition has always been important for good establishment of oilseed rape. Despite the continued decline in oilseed rape in recent years, there is still a significant area sown around the UK so autumn nutrition still has an important part to play.

Making sense of nitrogen
March 04, 2020

Making sense of nitrogen

There are many different types of nitrogen fertilisers available and it is important to make sure you are using the most efficient type of fertiliser. This article will help you to decide which nitrogen fertiliser is best for you.

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Root crops

Potatoes, Sugar Beet, Carrots, Onions

Agronomy Advice -Biotrac helps combat stress in potatoes
April 07, 2022

Biotrac helps combat stress in potatoes

There are many types of biostimulants on the market, each with different purposes. Yara's biostimulant products focus on is enhancing tolerance to abiotic stresses such as extreme temperatures or drought. They contain bioactive components that help the plant mitigate the effects of stress.

Agronomy Advice -Biostimulants increase marketable yield of potatoes
October 30, 2021

Biostimulants increase marketable yield of potatoes

Biostimulant products trigger natural plant processes that enhance nutrient use efficiency. Improved plant growth and abiotic stress tolerance help the plants to remain vigorous in hostile growing conditions so the farmer can generate better yield and quality.

Improving carrot quality with calcium
April 08, 2021

Improving carrot quality with calcium

The nutrition of carrots has a large influence on the growth and development and importantly on carrot quality. Several key nutrients are involved but none more so than calcium which is particularly associated with quality.

Agronomy Advice - Why a healthy canopy is essential for quality potatoes
June 18, 2020

Why a healthy canopy is essential for potatoes

A healthy potato canopy is important in ensuring we maximise the plant’s ability to fill the ‘tuber sink’ thus producing as many marketable potatoes as possible, and improving profitability.

Increase potato yield with better phosphate management
March 10, 2020

Increase potato yields with better phosphate management

Ensuring sufficient phosphate is available for early development is critical in potatoes so perhaps it is time for a re-think about phosphate management.

Agronomy Advice - Is your potato quality being let down by a lack of calcium?
April 08, 2021

Is your potato quality being let down by a lack of calcium?

Calcium is a vital nutrient for potatoes and most aspects of tuber quality can be improved by having a sufficient supply of calcium during growth.

Foliar nutrition increases potato tuber bulking
August 14, 2018

Foliar nutrition increases potato tuber bulking

Potato tuber bulking can be maximised by optimising crop nutrition to maintain tuber growth rates throughout the important bulking stage.

Dig out the spade before planting
February 01, 2018

Dig out the spade before planting

Spring is fast approaching; time to get the spade out of the shed and do some soil sampling pre-spring planting.

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Leafy vegetables, pulses and salads

Broccoli, Brussel Sprouts, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Beans, Lettuce

Agronomy Advice - Improving the performance of pulse crops
March 16, 2022

Improving the performance of the all important pulse crops

To perform well nitrogen-fixing crops like peas and beans require complete nutrition, particularly phosphorus and sulphur together with boron and other micronutrients otherwise nodulation will be reduced leading to poor performance and yield reduction.

Agronomy Advice - YaraVita Biotrac combats stress in lettuce
August 26, 2020

YaraVita Biotrac combats stress in lettuce

When faced with a crop of Iceberg lettuce struggling and growing slowly under stress conditions Miguel Ángel Navarro Sánchez turned to YaraVita Biotrac plant biostimulant and was very pleased to see the crop quickly recover.

Boost boron and calcium levels in late season brassicas
October 04, 2020

Boost boron and calcium levels in late season brassicas

Late season vegetable brassica crops are susceptible to several quality issues which can reduce marketable yield. Boosting levels of calcium and boron in these crops via nutrition will prevent many of these quality issues and so can increase profitability.

Correct nutrition protects Brassica quality
July 14, 2020

Correct nutrition protects Brassica quality

Good nutrition can prevent many of the quality issues affecting brassica vegetable crops and so increase the marketable yield.

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Fruit crops

Apples, Apricots, Blueberries, Cherries, Pears, Plums, Raspberries and Strawberries

Concerned about hail damage to apples and pears
May 09, 2021

Concerned about hail damage to apples and pears

Apples and pears are both susceptible to hale damage in late spring with the potential for both fruits and leaves to be damaged. Whilst crop nutrition cant control the weather it can help mitigate some of the effects and help damaged crops recover.

How to recover frost damaged fruit crops
May 27, 2021

How to recover frost damaged fruit crops

Where fruit crops, particularly apples, pears and grapevines have suffered frost damage we need to think about how to best manage the crop buds which are left to both recover the damaged buds and then to recover the lost growth.

How to manage blueberry fertigation
June 09, 2021

How to manage higher temperatures in strawberries

Higher temperatures bring both good and bad news for strawberry growers. The good news is increased production and demand for strawberries but the downside is managing heat stress and other challenges. Controlling the crop through these tricky periods can be made easier by utilising foliar feeds.

How to manage blueberry fertigation
June 09, 2021

How to manage blueberry fertigation

Blueberry nutrition and fertigation is very much a consequence of the rooting system and pH range. Blueberries are more acid-loving than most soft fruits and also have a less efficient root system which has consequences for fertigation recommendations.

Is there a better alternative to monopotassium phosphate
July 01, 2021

Is there a better alternative to monopotassium phosphate

Monopotassium phosphate, otherwise known as MKP is a product synonymous with fruit production that is widely used, primarily as a flower boosting green fruit supporter. However, at this point in time, MKP is sometimes difficult to get hold of, so many growers are asking if there is a better alternative.

Late season advice for soft fruit crops
August 27, 2020

Late season advice for soft fruit crops

As the soft fruit production season nears an end with final harvests underway it is important to keep a focus on nutrition to avoid carrying any issues over to next season so here are a few recomendations for strawberry and raspberry growers to ensure crops go in to dormancy in good condition.

Fruit crops benefit from foliar calcium in a wet season
April 02, 2020

Fruit crops benefit from foliar calcium in a wet season

After a wet winter many fruit plants may have been growing under saturated conditions for some time. Under these circumstances the application of foliar fed calcium will be advantageous.

YaraVita improves cherries appearance
August 01, 2018

YaraVita improves cherries appearance

Improving the appearance of cherries greatly increases the fruits value. Blemishes or surface deposits can make the fruit less marketable.

How successful fruit growers monitor their crops
February 01, 2018

How successful fruit growers monitor their crops

Successful fruit growers regularly monitor their crops nutrition status in order to proactively manage their crops nutrition. But where to begin ? We look at the full system of testing and explain the what is needed and why.

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Grass and forage

Grassland and forage crops

Grassland field
June 02, 2023

Managing Grassland in Drought Conditions

Our summers seem to be getting hotter, we’ve seen four of the five warmest summers on record since 2003.

Farmer and Agronomist reviewing the grass within a
April 21, 2023

How Wet Conditions are Challenging Grassland Farmers

One of the things that keeps farming interesting is that every year is different. Of course this can also be incredibly frustrating, presenting new challenges year on year.

tractor on a open field
March 08, 2023

White Clover reduces Nitrogen Application Requirements

For six years Moorpark in Ireland have been conducting trials exploring the impact growing white clover in paddocks along with perennial ryegrass has on nitrogen requirements.

Yara agronomist and a farmer in a crop field
February 22, 2023

Spotlight on the British Grassland Society

Yara has long been involved with and supported the British Grassland Society (BGS), we currently have active involvement from four of our commercial and agronomy team.

Yara Agronomist Philip Garland checking the grass with another farmer
February 22, 2023

Going beyond Soil Analysis

Adopting a more precise approach to grassland management has gone beyond a trend and is fast becoming one of the only ways to retain a profit margin that will keep farmers in business.

Image of a cow grazing in a field
February 22, 2023

Trial Results: Effect of Selenium Enriched Fertilizer on Grazing Cows

Yara undertook detailed trials last year to investigate the impact of cows grazing on pasture that had been fertilised with a selenium enriched fertilizer

fields from a recent Nitrogen trial
February 22, 2023

Maximise Nitrogen Availability with a Robust Sulphur Strategy

Farmers have two reasons to minimise nitrogen losses – maximise the amount of nitrogen absorbed by growing crops (including grassland) and protect the environment from nitrogen leaching, which can often contaminate water courses.

farmer walking through the fields checking his crops
February 22, 2023

Walking the Grazing Block

Farmers do a lot of walking, but there’s no better way of keeping in touch with what’s going on in your paddocks than taking a walk through them. This is more than just a walk, it’s an information gathering process designed to support good grassland management.

Understanding the economics of grass growth
February 17, 2022

Understanding the economics of grass growth

Against a climate of rising costs, livestock farmers have some tricky decisions to make. Nevertheless, replacing homegrown forage with purchased feed is still not justified, even at current fertiliser costs.

Planning spring phosphate applications for grass
January 31, 2022

Planning spring phosphate applications for grass

Phosphorus is a key nutrient for grass, and its role in energy supply, root growth and tillering makes its availability crucial for grass growth in the spring.

Agronomy Advice - Using manures more effectively
November 11, 2021

Using manures more effectively on livestock farms

Using manures more effectively is one way to mitigate increases in the cost of fertiliser. This will allow a lowering of the fertiliser requirements on livestock farms without risking a reduction in grass production.

Agronomy Advice - What is the value of grass?
November 11, 2021

What is the value of grass?

Grass is a vital part of any livestock enterprise and remains the most dominant and economic feed for the dairy, beef and sheep sector either as grazing or conserved forage; but what is the real value of grass?

Agronomy Advice - The impact of reduced nitrogen rates on grassland yield
November 12, 2021

The impact of reduced nitrogen rates on grassland yield

Any farmer contemplating reducing nitrogen fertiliser applications on grass needs to be aware of the effect any decrease in nitrogen rates will have on grass production.

Make up for poor first cut yields by getting your second cuts fertilised
May 24, 2021

Make up for poor first cuts by fertilising your second cuts

Achieving good second cut yields will be more important than ever this year, because of poor first cut yields and low silage stocks. Second cuts are capable of very high yields if these crops are optimally fertilised.

More effective weed control on grassland
May 11, 2021

More effective weed control on grassland

When getting the sprayer out to control grassland weeds, there is an opportunity to add a foliar fertiliser to improve weed control and ensure the long term success of the sward.

How to avoid compromising silage quality
May 11, 2021

How to avoid compromising silage quality

Following a cold spring, many grass fields may be behind where they would normally be and first cut silage yields could well be back. So what is the best advice to avoid compromising both quality and yield?

Sulphur improves silage quality
January 13, 2018

Sulphur improves silage quality

Targeting silage ground with an effective source of sulphur improves silage quality and help secure optimal milk production levels from forage.

Reseeding advice for paddocks
April 08, 2021

Four steps to successful reseeding

A new reseed can often be the most challenging crop to establish on grassland farms. The main benefits of new swards are improved dry matter (DM) yield, and improved nutrient use efficiency.

What about selenium ?
January 31, 2020

What about selenium ?

Selenium is an essential nutrient for animal health but not for crops, yet applying selenium to grassland via fortified fertilizers raises the selenium levels in forage and avoids all the costs of unhealthy livestock.

Influencing earlier spring grass
January 10, 2021

Influencing earlier spring grass

Earlier grass is becoming more valuable than ever with winter forage reserves running low on many farms. Nutrition can play a vital role in influencing early growth.

Ten reasons to use YaraBela Nutri Booster
August 30, 2019

Ten reasons to use YaraBela Nutri Booster

Whilst nitrogen is the driver of grass growth, it is also important to replenish the sulphur and selenium levels in the crop to ensure your livestock are receiving the very best feed.

How much is not spreading sulphur costing you ?
January 04, 2021

How much is not spreading sulphur costing you ?

Many farming practices for good reason are rooted in tradition and when it comes to buying fertiliser, farmers continue to buy what they have always bought. But if not spreading sulphur on grassland is costing you over £100/ha should this practice continue ?

Make your grassland fertiliser work harder
December 10, 2020

Make your grassland fertiliser work harder

Nitrogen has always been a good investment for livestock farmers, whether you’re growing grass for grazing or looking to reduce feed costs through better silage management.

Top tips for making late season silage
August 27, 2020

Top tips for making late season silage

There are many farmers still intending to make grass silage this year. But, there are a few things that we need to look out for, if we want to make well preserved, palatable silage.

Agronomy Advice - Improving nitrogen use efficiency on livestock farms
April 12, 2020

Improving nitrogen use efficiency on livestock farms

Improving nitrogen use efficiency on livestock farms is a key environmental challenge however, this also has a significant effect on farm profitability

April 25, 2019

Nutrient management of horse paddocks

Horse paddocks like any other crop require sufficient nutrients to grow and without the correct balance of nutrition the quality of the grass will suffer and there may well be consequences for animal heath.

Agronomy Advice - Managing spring fertiliser and slurry applications
February 12, 2020

Managing spring fertiliser and slurry applications for grazing

Following a particularly wet winter fewer nutrients will still be available for spring grass so here is our advice on managing spring fertiliser and slurry applications in a wet spring.

Agronomy Advice - Benefit from applying lime to grassland
November 22, 2018

Benefit from applying lime to grassland now

It might surprise you to know that two thirds of all grassland soil samples received by the lab have a soil pH which is too low, but it's never too late to correct this with lime

Fertilising short term leys and forage brassica crops
August 23, 2018

Fertilising short term leys and forage brassica crops

It is important for short term leys and forage brassica crops to get off to a good start and getting the seedbed fertilisation right is a big part of this.

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Maize

Maize and Forage maize crops

Maize Field
April 12, 2023

Protecting Maize from Abiotic Stress

To achieve your maize crop’s full potential you should be focused on two strategies

Foliar phosphate boosts the establishment of maize
May 06, 2021

Foliar phosphate boosts the establishment of maize

Maize can be tricky to establish and often its root system struggles to support the nutrient demands for early growth.

Five steps to increase maize yield and quality
December 16, 2019

Five steps to increase maize yield and quality

Maize shouldn't be a difficult crop to grow well.  Here are a series of five simple steps that will help to optimise maize nutrition so you can maximise yield and quality.

Maize crops need zinc
July 29, 2020

Maize crops need zinc

Almost a third of all maize soil samples and over half maize tissue samples analysed show potential zinc deficiency highlighting this key micronutrient.

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YaraBela - Nitrogen fertiliser

Do you really need straight nitrogen
May 05, 2022

Do you really need straight nitrogen

Before ordering your straight nitrogen it is worth considering how much you actually need as it may be you actually need NS or NPKS grades instead.

Don't forget about sulphur
January 07, 2021

Don't forget about sulphur

Sulphur was often overlooked in the past but today it is recognised as an essential nutrient and considered just as important as nitrogen, so not to be forgotten.

Heavier fertiliser spreads further
April 29, 2022

Heavier fertiliser spreads further

Some fertilisers consistently spread further and more accurately than others. A heavier and larger fertiliser granule will spread further because the spreader can put more energy into it.

Understanding the economics of grass growth
February 17, 2022

Understanding the economics of grass growth

Against a climate of rising costs, livestock farmers have some tricky decisions to make. Nevertheless, replacing homegrown forage with purchased feed is still not justified, even at current fertiliser costs.

Managing cereal spring nutrition – what should I do?
January 28, 2022

Managing cereal spring nutrition – what should I do?

When faced with wide variation in crops it is important to use spring nutrition to manipulate the crops as best you can in order to get the most from what you have.

Agronomy Advice - Using manures more effectively
November 11, 2021

Using manures more effectively on livestock farms

Using manures more effectively is one way to mitigate increases in the cost of fertiliser. This will allow a lowering of the fertiliser requirements on livestock farms without risking a reduction in grass production.

Agronomy Advice - What is the value of grass?
November 11, 2021

What is the value of grass?

Grass is a vital part of any livestock enterprise and remains the most dominant and economic feed for the dairy, beef and sheep sector either as grazing or conserved forage; but what is the real value of grass?

Agronomy Advice - The impact of reduced nitrogen rates on grassland yield
November 12, 2021

The impact of reduced nitrogen rates on grassland yield

Any farmer contemplating reducing nitrogen fertiliser applications on grass needs to be aware of the effect any decrease in nitrogen rates will have on grass production.

Sulphur improves silage quality
January 13, 2018

Sulphur improves silage quality

Targeting silage ground with an effective source of sulphur improves silage quality and help secure optimal milk production levels from forage.

What about selenium ?
January 31, 2020

What about selenium ?

Selenium is an essential nutrient for animal health but not for crops, yet applying selenium to grassland via fortified fertilizers raises the selenium levels in forage and avoids all the costs of unhealthy livestock.

Ten reasons to use YaraBela Nutri Booster
August 30, 2019

Ten reasons to use YaraBela Nutri Booster

Whilst nitrogen is the driver of grass growth, it is also important to replenish the sulphur and selenium levels in the crop to ensure your livestock are receiving the very best feed.

How much is not spreading sulphur costing you ?
January 04, 2021

How much is not spreading sulphur costing you ?

Many farming practices for good reason are rooted in tradition and when it comes to buying fertiliser, farmers continue to buy what they have always bought. But if not spreading sulphur on grassland is costing you over £100/ha should this practice continue ?

Make your grassland fertiliser work harder
December 10, 2020

Make your grassland fertiliser work harder

Nitrogen has always been a good investment for livestock farmers, whether you’re growing grass for grazing or looking to reduce feed costs through better silage management.

Reducing carbon footprint from fertiliser
June 07, 2019

Reducing carbon footprint from fertiliser

There is increasing focus on industries today to reduce their environmental impact as much as possible. With more of a spot light being shone on agriculture for emissions and GHGs (Greenhouse gasses), the ability to calculate your carbon footprint as a farmer is increasingly relevant.

Agronomy Advice - Improving nitrogen use efficiency on livestock farms
April 12, 2020

Improving nitrogen use efficiency on livestock farms

Improving nitrogen use efficiency on livestock farms is a key environmental challenge however, this also has a significant effect on farm profitability

Nitrogen use efficiency - how do we improve it
April 06, 2020

Nitrogen use efficiency - how do we improve it

Nitrogen use efficiency helps to understand the relationships between the total nitrogen input compared to the nitrogen output. This allows improvements to be made resulting in better efficiency, profitability and sustainability.

Nitrogen source and timing under cold conditions
February 28, 2020

Nitrogen source and timing under cold conditions

The first nitrogen application to cereals is the most rewarding so it is important to make the right decisions when it comes to nitrogen source and timing, especially under cold conditions.

Sulphur management in cereals
January 31, 2020

Sulphur management in cereals

Getting the most from your sulphur applications is critical for both yield and quality so it is worth reviewing your current practice to make sure you get the best response from sulphur.

Agronomy Advice - Managing spring fertiliser and slurry applications
February 12, 2020

Managing spring fertiliser and slurry applications for grazing

Following a particularly wet winter fewer nutrients will still be available for spring grass so here is our advice on managing spring fertiliser and slurry applications in a wet spring.

When is the best time to apply sulphur ?
April 02, 2018

When is the best time to apply sulphur ?

It is generally accepted that sulphur is an essential nutrient for all crops but there is still some confusion over the best time to apply sulphur.

Making sense of nitrogen
March 04, 2020

Making sense of nitrogen

There are many different types of nitrogen fertilisers available and it is important to make sure you are using the most efficient type of fertiliser. This article will help you to decide which nitrogen fertiliser is best for you.

Back to Top

YaraMila - Compound NPKS fertiliser

Farmer and Agronomist reviewing the grass within a
April 21, 2023

How Wet Conditions are Challenging Grassland Farmers

One of the things that keeps farming interesting is that every year is different. Of course this can also be incredibly frustrating, presenting new challenges year on year.

Grassland farmer in the field
March 28, 2023

Focus on soil fertility and quality fertiliser this spring

As farmers start to think of applying phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) on grassland and new-ly sown crops this spring, many farmers will look no further than the versatile 18-6-12 to deliv-er the nutrient requirements for these crops this spring.

Tractor spreader in a field
March 21, 2023

Boost grass supply and remedy soil fertility with YaraMila ExtraGrass

The aftereffects of last year’s lack of grass on many beef and sheep farms is still being felt. Sheep farmers are reporting lower ewe scanning percentages and poorer ewe condition this spring.

Image of a cow grazing in a field
February 22, 2023

Trial Results: Effect of Selenium Enriched Fertilizer on Grazing Cows

Yara undertook detailed trials last year to investigate the impact of cows grazing on pasture that had been fertilised with a selenium enriched fertilizer

Planning for Successful Oilseed Establishment
July 29, 2022

Planning for Successful Oilseed Establishment

Oilseed rape can be a tricky crop to establish, so attention to detail is critical to overcome various obstacles that can affect early growth and development.

Managing late drilled wheat crops
June 21, 2022

Managing late drilled wheat crops

Where drilling of winter wheat has been delayed, the crop nutrition strategy should be adapted to help recover the lost yield potential

Do you really need straight nitrogen
May 05, 2022

Do you really need straight nitrogen

Before ordering your straight nitrogen it is worth considering how much you actually need as it may be you actually need NS or NPKS grades instead.

Don't forget about sulphur
January 07, 2021

Don't forget about sulphur

Sulphur was often overlooked in the past but today it is recognised as an essential nutrient and considered just as important as nitrogen, so not to be forgotten.

Managing the nutrition of second wheats
March 06, 2022

Managing the nutrition of second wheats

When it comes to managing second wheat nutrition the main objective is to improve the biomass that is very often low due to later drillings and to increase nutrient supply which is often poor due to a compromised root system.

Planning spring phosphate applications for grass
January 31, 2022

Planning spring phosphate applications for grass

Phosphorus is a key nutrient for grass, and its role in energy supply, root growth and tillering makes its availability crucial for grass growth in the spring.

Managing cereal spring nutrition – what should I do?
January 28, 2022

Managing cereal spring nutrition – what should I do?

When faced with wide variation in crops it is important to use spring nutrition to manipulate the crops as best you can in order to get the most from what you have.

Agronomy Advice - Using manures more effectively
November 11, 2021

Using manures more effectively on livestock farms

Using manures more effectively is one way to mitigate increases in the cost of fertiliser. This will allow a lowering of the fertiliser requirements on livestock farms without risking a reduction in grass production.

Agronomy Advice - What is the value of grass?
November 11, 2021

What is the value of grass?

Grass is a vital part of any livestock enterprise and remains the most dominant and economic feed for the dairy, beef and sheep sector either as grazing or conserved forage; but what is the real value of grass?

Agronomy Advice - The impact of reduced nitrogen rates on grassland yield
November 12, 2021

The impact of reduced nitrogen rates on grassland yield

Any farmer contemplating reducing nitrogen fertiliser applications on grass needs to be aware of the effect any decrease in nitrogen rates will have on grass production.

Make up for poor first cut yields by getting your second cuts fertilised
May 24, 2021

Make up for poor first cuts by fertilising your second cuts

Achieving good second cut yields will be more important than ever this year, because of poor first cut yields and low silage stocks. Second cuts are capable of very high yields if these crops are optimally fertilised.

How to avoid compromising silage quality
May 11, 2021

How to avoid compromising silage quality

Following a cold spring, many grass fields may be behind where they would normally be and first cut silage yields could well be back. So what is the best advice to avoid compromising both quality and yield?

Reseeding advice for paddocks
April 08, 2021

Four steps to successful reseeding

A new reseed can often be the most challenging crop to establish on grassland farms. The main benefits of new swards are improved dry matter (DM) yield, and improved nutrient use efficiency.

What about selenium ?
January 31, 2020

What about selenium ?

Selenium is an essential nutrient for animal health but not for crops, yet applying selenium to grassland via fortified fertilizers raises the selenium levels in forage and avoids all the costs of unhealthy livestock.

Influencing earlier spring grass
January 10, 2021

Influencing earlier spring grass

Earlier grass is becoming more valuable than ever with winter forage reserves running low on many farms. Nutrition can play a vital role in influencing early growth.

Ten reasons to use YaraBela Nutri Booster
August 30, 2019

Ten reasons to use YaraBela Nutri Booster

Whilst nitrogen is the driver of grass growth, it is also important to replenish the sulphur and selenium levels in the crop to ensure your livestock are receiving the very best feed.

Agronomy Advice - Spring nutrition influences straw strength
January 05, 2021

Spring nutrition influences straw strength

Deficiency of potassium, manganese or copper during stem extension will lead to weaker stems and increase the risk of lodging later in the season.

Make your grassland fertiliser work harder
December 10, 2020

Make your grassland fertiliser work harder

Nitrogen has always been a good investment for livestock farmers, whether you’re growing grass for grazing or looking to reduce feed costs through better silage management.

Spring fertiliser increases yield
November 15, 2019

Eight reasons why spring fertiliser increases yield

Spring applications of some fertilisers have been shown to produce increases in cereal yields. Here are eight agronomic reasons why you should apply phosphate and potash in the spring rather than in the autumn

Agronomy Advice - Why a healthy canopy is essential for quality potatoes
June 18, 2020

Why a healthy canopy is essential for potatoes

A healthy potato canopy is important in ensuring we maximise the plant’s ability to fill the ‘tuber sink’ thus producing as many marketable potatoes as possible, and improving profitability.

Agronomy Advice - Improving nitrogen use efficiency on livestock farms
April 12, 2020

Improving nitrogen use efficiency on livestock farms

Improving nitrogen use efficiency on livestock farms is a key environmental challenge however, this also has a significant effect on farm profitability

Increase potato yield with better phosphate management
March 10, 2020

Increase potato yields with better phosphate management

Ensuring sufficient phosphate is available for early development is critical in potatoes so perhaps it is time for a re-think about phosphate management.

Agronomy Advice - Managing spring fertiliser and slurry applications
February 12, 2020

Managing spring fertiliser and slurry applications for grazing

Following a particularly wet winter fewer nutrients will still be available for spring grass so here is our advice on managing spring fertiliser and slurry applications in a wet spring.

Fertilising short term leys and forage brassica crops
August 23, 2018

Fertilising short term leys and forage brassica crops

It is important for short term leys and forage brassica crops to get off to a good start and getting the seedbed fertilisation right is a big part of this.

Straw removal removes nutrients too
August 23, 2018

Straw removal removes nutrients too

The value of straw means that much more of it than normal has been baled this harvest. But don't forget that the nutrients removed with the straw will need to be allowed for in next seasons fertiliser plans.

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YaraLiva - Calcium nitrate fertilisers

Improving carrot quality with calcium
April 08, 2021

Improving carrot quality with calcium

The nutrition of carrots has a large influence on the growth and development and importantly on carrot quality. Several key nutrients are involved but none more so than calcium which is particularly associated with quality.

Boost boron and calcium levels in late season brassicas
October 04, 2020

Boost boron and calcium levels in late season brassicas

Late season vegetable brassica crops are susceptible to several quality issues which can reduce marketable yield. Boosting levels of calcium and boron in these crops via nutrition will prevent many of these quality issues and so can increase profitability.

Correct nutrition protects Brassica quality
July 14, 2020

Correct nutrition protects Brassica quality

Good nutrition can prevent many of the quality issues affecting brassica vegetable crops and so increase the marketable yield.

Agronomy Advice - Is your potato quality being let down by a lack of calcium?
April 08, 2021

Is your potato quality being let down by a lack of calcium?

Calcium is a vital nutrient for potatoes and most aspects of tuber quality can be improved by having a sufficient supply of calcium during growth.

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YaraVita - Micronutrient and foliar fertilisers

Maize Field
April 12, 2023

Protecting Maize from Abiotic Stress

To achieve your maize crop’s full potential you should be focused on two strategies

Maize in a field
March 28, 2023

Using foliar nutrition on Maize crops

Growing maize crops with good forage quality and high yields will be paramount this year, considering the increased costs associated with using biodegradable film or for those growing the crop without film, minimising the potential loss in yield associated with planting in the open.

Planning for Successful Oilseed Establishment
July 29, 2022

Planning for Successful Oilseed Establishment

Oilseed rape can be a tricky crop to establish, so attention to detail is critical to overcome various obstacles that can affect early growth and development.

Managing late drilled wheat crops
June 21, 2022

Managing late drilled wheat crops

Where drilling of winter wheat has been delayed, the crop nutrition strategy should be adapted to help recover the lost yield potential

Agronomy Advice - Boron deficiencies in cereals shouldn’t be overlooked
April 20, 2022

Boron deficiencies in cereals shouldn’t be overlooked

Boron is generally an overlooked micronutrient and it is often wrongly assumed to be less important for cereals than for brassicas which have the highest boron requirement.

Agronomy Advice -Biotrac helps combat stress in potatoes
April 07, 2022

Biotrac helps combat stress in potatoes

There are many types of biostimulants on the market, each with different purposes. Yara's biostimulant products focus on is enhancing tolerance to abiotic stresses such as extreme temperatures or drought. They contain bioactive components that help the plant mitigate the effects of stress.

Agronomy Advice -Barley needs more micronutrients than just manganese
March 21, 2022

Barley needs more than just straight manganese

Most barley growers will be familiar with manganese deficiency and will recognise deficiency symptoms and understand the causes. However, other micronutrients, particularly copper and zinc are just as important yet tend to be overlooked.

Agronomy Advice - Micronutrients make a difference when it comes to oilseedutrition plan?
March 16, 2022

Micronutrients make a difference to oilseed crops

Micronutrients not only help ensure the successful establishment of oilseed crops but also help to set the ultimate yield potential of the crop.

Agronomy Advice - Improving the performance of pulse crops
March 16, 2022

Improving the performance of the all important pulse crops

To perform well nitrogen-fixing crops like peas and beans require complete nutrition, particularly phosphorus and sulphur together with boron and other micronutrients otherwise nodulation will be reduced leading to poor performance and yield reduction.

Managing the nutrition of second wheats
March 06, 2022

Managing the nutrition of second wheats

When it comes to managing second wheat nutrition the main objective is to improve the biomass that is very often low due to later drillings and to increase nutrient supply which is often poor due to a compromised root system.

Agronomy Advice - Are micronutrients an integral part of your wheat nutrition plan?
February 11, 2022

Are micronutrients an integral part of your wheat nutrition

Micronutrients should be an integral part of any wheat nutrition programme, not just to ensure successful establishment but to set the ultimate yield potential of the crop.

Micronutrients - deficiency prevention is better than cure
February 06, 2022

Micronutrients - deficiency prevention is better than cure

When it comes to micronutrients, prevention of a deficiency before crop losses occur is always better than correction after the damage has been done.

Foliar phosphate – energising cereal crops for spring growth
January 25, 2022

Foliar phosphate – energising cereal crops for spring growth

Many cereal crops struggle to get moving in early spring due to low phosphorus levels as a result of low phosphate availability. Giving these crops a quick 'energy boost' from foliar phosphate is the best way to get them started.

Foliar phosphate and zinc – let crops make better use of nitrogen
November 22, 2021

Let crops make better use of limited nitrogen

A poor or compromised root system, caused by phosphate deficiency will not allow plants to make the best use of limited nitrogen. Giving crops a boost from foliar phosphate together with zinc is the best way to build a big and healthy root system.

Agronomy Advice -Biostimulants increase marketable yield of potatoes
October 30, 2021

Biostimulants increase marketable yield of potatoes

Biostimulant products trigger natural plant processes that enhance nutrient use efficiency. Improved plant growth and abiotic stress tolerance help the plants to remain vigorous in hostile growing conditions so the farmer can generate better yield and quality.

Agronomy Advice - YaraVita Biotrac combats stress in lettuce
August 26, 2020

YaraVita Biotrac combats stress in lettuce

When faced with a crop of Iceberg lettuce struggling and growing slowly under stress conditions Miguel Ángel Navarro Sánchez turned to YaraVita Biotrac plant biostimulant and was very pleased to see the crop quickly recover.

Concerned about hail damage to apples and pears
May 09, 2021

Concerned about hail damage to apples and pears

Apples and pears are both susceptible to hale damage in late spring with the potential for both fruits and leaves to be damaged. Whilst crop nutrition cant control the weather it can help mitigate some of the effects and help damaged crops recover.

How to recover frost damaged fruit crops
May 27, 2021

How to recover frost damaged fruit crops

Where fruit crops, particularly apples, pears and grapevines have suffered frost damage we need to think about how to best manage the crop buds which are left to both recover the damaged buds and then to recover the lost growth.

More effective weed control on grassland
May 11, 2021

More effective weed control on grassland

When getting the sprayer out to control grassland weeds, there is an opportunity to add a foliar fertiliser to improve weed control and ensure the long term success of the sward.

Foliar phosphate boosts the establishment of maize
May 06, 2021

Foliar phosphate boosts the establishment of maize

Maize can be tricky to establish and often its root system struggles to support the nutrient demands for early growth.

Five steps to increase maize yield and quality
December 16, 2019

Five steps to increase maize yield and quality

Maize shouldn't be a difficult crop to grow well.  Here are a series of five simple steps that will help to optimise maize nutrition so you can maximise yield and quality.

Managing crop stress under cold and dry conditions
April 12, 2021

Managing crop stress under cold and dry conditions

When frost and dry conditions combine to put abiotic stresses onto crops it is worthwhile considering the use of biostimulants such as YaraVita Biotrac which have been developed to alleviate stress.

Agronomy Advice - Spring nutrition influences straw strength
January 05, 2021

Spring nutrition influences straw strength

Deficiency of potassium, manganese or copper during stem extension will lead to weaker stems and increase the risk of lodging later in the season.

Late season advice for soft fruit crops
August 27, 2020

Late season advice for soft fruit crops

As the soft fruit production season nears an end with final harvests underway it is important to keep a focus on nutrition to avoid carrying any issues over to next season so here are a few recomendations for strawberry and raspberry growers to ensure crops go in to dormancy in good condition.

Maize crops need zinc
July 29, 2020

Maize crops need zinc

Almost a third of all maize soil samples and over half maize tissue samples analysed show potential zinc deficiency highlighting this key micronutrient.

Fruit crops benefit from foliar calcium in a wet season
April 02, 2020

Fruit crops benefit from foliar calcium in a wet season

After a wet winter many fruit plants may have been growing under saturated conditions for some time. Under these circumstances the application of foliar fed calcium will be advantageous.

Phosphate seed treatments promote better crop establishment
August 05, 2019

Phosphate seed treatments

Rapid establishment has always been important for cereals so optimising nutrition early on can help get crops off the the best start.

Foliar nutrition increases potato tuber bulking
August 14, 2018

Foliar nutrition increases potato tuber bulking

Potato tuber bulking can be maximised by optimising crop nutrition to maintain tuber growth rates throughout the important bulking stage.

YaraVita improves cherries appearance
August 01, 2018

YaraVita improves cherries appearance

Improving the appearance of cherries greatly increases the fruits value. Blemishes or surface deposits can make the fruit less marketable.

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YaraTera -Fertigation fertilisers

How to manage blueberry fertigation
June 09, 2021

How to manage higher temperatures in strawberries

Higher temperatures bring both good and bad news for strawberry growers. The good news is increased production and demand for strawberries but the downside is managing heat stress and other challenges. Controlling the crop through these tricky periods can be made easier by utilising foliar feeds.

How to manage blueberry fertigation
June 09, 2021

How to manage blueberry fertigation

Blueberry nutrition and fertigation is very much a consequence of the rooting system and pH range. Blueberries are more acid-loving than most soft fruits and also have a less efficient root system which has consequences for fertigation recommendations.

Is there a better alternative to monopotassium phosphate
July 01, 2021

Is there a better alternative to monopotassium phosphate

Monopotassium phosphate, otherwise known as MKP is a product synonymous with fruit production that is widely used, primarily as a flower boosting green fruit supporter. However, at this point in time, MKP is sometimes difficult to get hold of, so many growers are asking if there is a better alternative.

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YaraVera - Urea based fertilisers

Sulphur improves silage quality
January 13, 2018

Sulphur improves silage quality

Targeting silage ground with an effective source of sulphur improves silage quality and help secure optimal milk production levels from forage.

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Tools and services

Nitrogen management, Analytical services

Yara agronomist and a farmer in a crop field
February 22, 2023

Spotlight on the British Grassland Society

Yara has long been involved with and supported the British Grassland Society (BGS), we currently have active involvement from four of our commercial and agronomy team.

tractor in an open field
February 22, 2023

Precision Agronomy: Our Way Forward

Over recent years, it’s become very clear that a change in approach is crucial. Input prices are high and look to remain that way for some time. The pressure put on farmers to reduce their impact on the environment is increasing with Government targets and suppliers needing to hit their own net zero commitments.

N-Sensor unbelievably better harvest
February 09, 2018

N-Sensor unbelievably better harvest

David Stephenson from Withernsea, East Yorkshire used the N-Sensor for the first time in 2016 resulting in "an unbelievably better harvest". As David explains, "it’s not necessarily about saving costs or reducing inputs, it’s about maximising the effective use of nitrogen by putting it where it’s needed"

A fantastic first year with the N-Sensor
February 09, 2018

A fantastic first year with the N-Sensor

James O'Reilly of Ballyragget Farm in Kilkenny, Ireland took delivery of the very first ALS2 N-Sensor to be ordered at the UK release at CropTec 2018. We caught up with James to look back on the first season.

N-Sensor transformed our business
February 09, 2018

N-Sensor transformed our business

Graham Porter from Naveby, Lincolnshire has used the N-Sensor for 10 years and is convinced it has transformed their business. "It would be very difficult to farm this variable land without an N-Sensor, the N-Sensor is a marvellous tool for us."

Soil sampling and analysis
January 07, 2020

Soil analysis discovers limiting factors

Everyone knows the importance of taking a soil sample; but should you be investing in more than just basic soil analysis?

N-Sensor twins science with sense
February 09, 2018

N-Sensor twins science with sense

The N-sensor is one those cutting edge tools that can generate vast arrays of utilisable data and use this information to make decisions in real time.

Dig out the spade before planting
February 01, 2018

Dig out the spade before planting

Spring is fast approaching; time to get the spade out of the shed and do some soil sampling pre-spring planting.

How successful fruit growers monitor their crops
February 01, 2018

How successful fruit growers monitor their crops

Successful fruit growers regularly monitor their crops nutrition status in order to proactively manage their crops nutrition. But where to begin ? We look at the full system of testing and explain the what is needed and why.

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