Cutting Corn Expenses?

With low corn prices, farmers are trying to figure out how to cut expenses. The cost of planting corn for most farmers is likely $700 an acre or more. The cash price of corn for fall delivery is about $3.35 a bushel. Even with a yield of 200 bushel an acre, the math does not work. Many farmers are wondering if they can decrease fertilizer rates and still maintain yields. Recently I listened to a presentation on that topic presented by Jeff Vetch, who is a scientist at the Southern Research and Outreach Center at Waseca.

Jeff had conducted a long-term research project on soil test phosphorus levels and corn yields. We have known for a long time that if your phosphorus soil test levels are medium to high or high there will be little yield response to applying more phosphorus. The real question was, if you pull down phosphorus soil test levels what impact does that have on corn yields if you then begin applying phosphorus again? The thought was that even with proper phosphorus fertilize you would not be able to maximize corn yields.

I guess this is why you do the research. Jeff found that soils with low phosphorus levels could produce high corn yields in subsequent years, if the proper amount of phosphorus was then applied. This research implies that if you have medium to high phosphorus levels you do not have to be concerned about pulling the phosphorus levels down as long as you plan on increasing rates later as needed. This research also has implications on land you rent but maybe not on a long-term contract.

Why would you want to build up phosphorus levels on a farm you might not farm next year? You put that money in the bank so to speak and then would never be able to draw on it. If you have questions about this research, contact Jeff Vetch at the Southern Research and Outreach Center at Waseca. Jeff told me he enjoys talking about research he has conducted with farmers.