Fall Preparations Mean Less Stressful Spring

BY Dairyland Seed Agronomy Team

The timeless phrase “you need to make hay when the sun is shining” really drives home the point of time management. We only have so many hours to get a crop planted, cared for, and harvested every year, all while adapting to Mother Nature’s “opportunities.” The 2023 growing season proved that those who were organized were able to make timely and agile decisions.

Excellent time management is apparent to me when farmers that I visit indicate that they put on their crop nutrients (manure or purchased fertilizers), and crop protection products as soon as it is agronomically and environmentally feasible, many in the fall or very early spring.

This management decision to have a portion of their acres “prepared” for spring allows them to put their crop in when they decide, and Mother Nature allows, and not waiting for an agronomy supplier. The ability to plant when they want sets them up for a higher yield potential in most instances. This also gives them more time to figure out any hiccups on the monitor, planter, or other equipment, without having the pressure of also trying to get a field fertilized.

The takeaway from this is that even having one field ready to go in the spring allows you more opportunity to be a step ahead and better able to manage your operation so that you can have more time with loved ones.

If you need help making a plan this fall, contact your Dairyland Seed Regional Agronomist or District Sales Manager.