Photo credit: FREEPIK
To optimise crop growth throughout the season, it is important to offer the right amount of fertiliser to the crop at the right time. In The Netherlands several institutes offer a method that combines soil samples and crop growth modelling to optimize crop yield while minimizing the environmental impact.
The method works by collecting soil samples to assess the current available nutrients. These samples are combined with crop-specific growth models to simulate plant development and nutrient demand. These models account for factors such as planting date and soil type and give advice about the amount of nutrients a farmer should give till the end of the grow season.
This integration enhances decision-making by providing a comprehensive overview of nutrient management practices. For example, a farmer uses a standard fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season, which consists mainly of slurry. During the growing season, an additional soil sample provides the optimal amount of fertilizer. The main benefits of applying this practice are:
a)By optimizing fertilization this method can help farmers achieve higher yields and better crop quality.
b)Precise nutrient application minimizes the risk of nitrogen leaching and emissions of greenhouse gases.
c)By applying only the necessary amount of fertilizer, farmers can reduce input costs.
d)This practice helps farmers comply with strict nitrate regulations by providing data-driven
recommendations.
A real example comes from a potato farmer in a region with sandy soils. This method uses extra soil samples, and crop growth models to determine that 50 kg N/ha is needed at a specific time. By following this recommendation, the farmer can optimize nitrogen use, reduce environmental impact, and maximize wheat yield. By leveraging advanced technology and data-driven insights, this method empowers farmers to make informed decisions about nitrogen fertilization, leading to more sustainable and profitable agriculture.