As agricultural practices continue to evolve, understanding the nutrient requirements of crops becomes crucial for achieving optimal yields. Among the various crops, wheat holds a significant position in global agriculture. However, recent research has shed light on some intriguing findings regarding nutrient deficiencies in wheat, emphasizing the importance of targeted fertilization strategies.
"There is not as much data as we have on corn and soybeans, but we have a sizable data set here,"
Derek Emerine, National Agronomist for Helena Agri-Enterprises
Helena relies on the Extractor® tissue sampling program to measure nutrient levels in growing crops. Data going back to 2020 shows boron is the most deficient element across all stages of wheat growth. Fortunately, correcting the problem is a relatively simple task, and providing it at the right time can greatly impact wheat yield and seed production.
“It’s an easy fix, and we have all kinds of opportunity," says Emerine.
In contrast to boron, phosphorus deficiencies in wheat did not exhibit a prominent presence in the available data, which was intriguing to find. Phosphorus plays a vital role in energy transfer and the development of healthy root systems. Although its scarcity may not be as prevalent as boron, it is important to closely monitor and address phosphorus deficiencies to maximize wheat productivity.
According to Emerine, the “biggest players” in wheat after boron are potassium, nitrogen, zinc and magnesium. However, another nutrient to focus on is copper. In areas with high pH soils like the Northwest, wheat is highly responsive to copper, and deficiencies can lead to significant problems.
Understanding the nutrient requirements of wheat is crucial for farmers aiming to maximize yields and enhance the quality of their harvest. While some findings may align with existing knowledge, others have presented surprises. Contact your local Helena representative to identify nutrient deficiencies in your wheat crop with Extractor tissue sampling. To catch more information on Extractor data in other crops, tune in to Episode 32 of Helena’s FieldLink® Podcast.