Fall NH3: Let the Soil Set the Schedule
As harvest winds down across Illinois, fall nitrogen plans are moving to the top of the to-do list. We are aware that some NH3 applications are already underway, and we understand the pressures – labor, equipment, customer expectations, and a short fall window.
With these challenges in mind, soil temperatures across the state currently remain above 50°F, and we continue to encourage waiting until they are consistently below that threshold to support responsible nitrogen management and help maximize the value of fall-applied nitrogen for your customers. Soil moisture is also a concern, as much of Illinois is extremely dry right now.
Early fall applications are being noticed by the public, regulators, and policymakers, raising concerns about our industry’s commitment to voluntary, science-based nutrient management practices.
Please consider waiting until 4-inch bare-soil temperatures at 10 a.m. are below 50°F and trending down (WARM website: https://warm.isws.illinois.edu/warm/soil/.) When soils do cool, pairing fall NH3 with an EPA-registered nitrification inhibitor provides added protection if temperatures rebound after application.
Thank you for your continued commitment to your customers and to our industry.