Apply a third of your N at drilling, with the rest applied at GS 12. P and K at drilling will help plants to establish quickly and form sufficient root systems that will be needed later to reach soil moisture deep in the soil profile. Weed control must be optimised for min-till systems as weed pressure will be increased compared to a plough-based system.
Don’t forget about micronutrients
The addition of micronutrients should not be overlooked for the 2022 season. It is important to apply these to cereals before GS31 to maximise yield potential. The addition of micronutrients such as Boron, Zinc, Manganese, Iron, Copper, Molybdenum and Chlorine will reduce any chances of deficiencies showing up later in the year and compromising plant health. An interesting study conducted by YARA during 2018-2020 concluded 70% of wheat samples received were deficient in boron. The inclusion of Boron is important in plant pollination, therefore plant fertility. In oilseed rape, Boron is needed for seed set, pod set and seed weight. Deficiency of Manganese is the most widespread among cereals, however, it is easily controlled with foliar application. Zinc application will also correct cereals that are grown in low Zinc soils. Speak to your Drummonds tillage advisor for more information about micronutrient applications to crops.
