How Micronutrients Work Together to Help Crops Succeed

Micronutrients can be the difference-maker in your crop production system, but understanding how they work together in activating and enhancing plant processes can help you take the next step for your plant nutrition program.

Micronutrient synergy in crop production 

In crop nutrition, synergy is when nutrients work together to encourage yield or plant response. The macronutrients nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium generally have positive relationships when working together in the appropriate balance.

Adding micronutrients, however, can further improve their performance. When it comes to synergy, zinc is one of the most often mentioned micronutrients, as it is proven to improve yields when used effectively in conjunction with phosphorus. Boron is another micronutrient known for synergy, increasing the uptake and availability of nitrogen and being essential to nitrogen fixation in legumes.

Antagonism with micronutrients in crop production 

Conversely, antagonism is when nutrients work against each other, potentially causing deficiencies that can impact plant health and yield. Some examples are when excess phosphorous limits zinc uptake or extra potassium hinders the plant’s access to molybdenum. Along those same lines, excess zinc also antagonizes the uptake and use of copper and iron. Cold, wet soils often amplify nutrient antagonism in crop production.

Balance is key to micronutrient success.

How can you be sure your nutrient plan has the balance needed to encourage crop success? Start with a soil analysis to paint a picture of where your soil stands regarding nutrient presence and availability. Then, take the appropriate steps to correct the deficiency, making sure you adhere to the 4Rs of Nutrient Stewardship – applying the right fertilizer source at the right rate, the right time and the right place. This helps ensure that your crop won’t be the victim of an incorrect application that hinders your highest success potential. 

WOLF TRAX™ DDP™ micronutrients are designed to deliver highly available nutrition at an evenly distributed rate across the field, thanks to the patented EvenCoat™ Technology. With the flexibility to focus on getting the micronutrients you need and not wasting time on the ones you don’t, the WOLF TRAX line is designed to simplify nutrient management, boost crop performance and maximize fertilizer investment.

To learn more about a balanced nutrient program, contact a Koch Agronomic Services (KAS) representative today or visit the KAS Knowledge Center for additional resources.