IFCA partnered with University of Illinois Extension for a webinar discussing key considerations for fall fertilizer management in Illinois. The discussion featured Dr. John Jones, Dan Schaefer, Dr. Nick Paulson, and Illinois farmer Eric Miller, who shared insights on changing fall weather patterns, soil temperature considerations for anhydrous ammonia applications, and strategies to minimize nitrogen loss. The panel also addressed current fertilizer economics, phosphorus and potassium management, and nutrient recommendations for winter wheat. The presentation emphasized the importance of soil testing, research-based fertilizer decisions, and adapting nutrient management practices to changing weather conditions and economic pressures.
Illinois Fertilizer & Chemical Association
Supply · Service · Stewardship
Election Day is here! 🗳️
Harvest is wrapping up, but anhydrous season isn’t here yet. 🌡️
Thanks to WCIA 3 News for having IFCA President Jenny Webb on "From the Farm" to talk about where Illinois soil temperatures stand and why it's still too early for fall anhydrous ammonia.
The quick version: wait until 4-inch soil temps are consistently below 50°F and trending colder. Warm soils speed up the conversion of ammonium to nitrate, which puts nitrogen at risk of loss before next year's crop can use it. A few extra days of patience protects the nitrogen investment.
🌡️ Check soil temps in your area before you roll: warm.isws.illinois.edu/warm/soil/
https://www.wcia.com/video/from-the-farm-high-soil-temperatures-pose-problem-for-anhydrous-ammonia-application/12296056
We’ve scheduled 3 more sessions of our new First Pass Applicator Training!
This course is designed for applicators who are new to applying pesticides. Through real-life scenarios, demonstrations, and hands-on and group exercises, attendees will cover all aspects of pesticide and dry fertilizer application. It’s open to both retailers and growers.
📅 January 6–7, 2027
📅 February 24–25, 2027
📅 March 10–11, 2027
These courses fill up fast, so register early to save your spot: https://ifca.com/Training/First_Pass
Thank you to West Central FS, Inc. for hosting Rep. Eric Sorensen at the FS Technology Learning Center in Galesburg! It was a great opportunity to show the Congressman the work our members do every day to help growers make informed, profitable decisions on seed, crop production, and nutrient management. We appreciate him taking the time to visit.
Thanks also to GROWMARK, Inc. and the Agricultural Retailers Association for helping make the visit happen. When policymakers see ag retail up close, it leads to more productive conversations about the issues that matter to Illinois agriculture. 🌽🌱