The Soil Fertility/Nutrient Management program at MSU focuses on the processes that affect nutrient cycling so that they can be managed more sustainably. Soil testing can detect low nutrient levels that lead to possible crop nutrient deficiencies. In addition, soil testing allows for timely adjustments in fertilizer applications, reducing input costs. Understanding the economics of fertilizing, yield goals, and crop quality, along with soil fertility management can assist the producer in meeting profit goals. Currently, the effects of cropping systems and tillage systems on nitrogen and phosphorus availability are being investigated. Research conducted at MSU, the Agricultural Research Centers, and throughout the region, are synthesized into fact sheets, modules, and presentations geared toward extension agents, crop advisers, farmers, ranchers, and/or homeowners. If you have any questions on the Soil Fertility Extension program or materials contained in this web site, contact Dr. Clain Jones.
Mid- to late-season N options for wheat grain yield and protein are summarized in a new press release (pdf).
Factors Affecting Nitrogen Fertilizer Volatilization (pdf) and Management to Minimize Nitrogen Fertilizer Volatilization (pdf) - two new MSU bulletins. The first explains the when, how and why of volatilization loss from nitrogen fertilizers. Urea broadcast under cold soil conditions is not as protected from volatilization loss as previously thought. The second bulletin provides management options to minimize the loss, increase nitrogen use efficiency, and potentially boost yields. Highlights of the bulletin are presented in a press release (pdf).
A new Fertilizer Fact Effect of Diversified Crop Rotations and N Rates on Soil Organic Matter and Nutrient Levels (pdf) is now available.
Minimizing urea volatilization in cool semi-arid regions – an article in the Nov/Dec 2012 issue of Crops & Soils. This is available to American Society of Agronomy members and to Certified Crop Advisors for CEUs under the Nutrient Management section.
Nutrient Digest Newsletter - expanded from the Idaho Nutrient Digest, to serve a larger region, offered quarterly
Spring 2013 issue (pdf) . If you would like to be alerted when the next issue comes out, please write kathrin.olson@montana.edu.
