Making a Post-Harvest Plan to Replace Micronutrients the Crop Removed

Fall harvest opens a key window for post-harvest fertility planning, and it’s a strategic time to talk through next season’s nutrient strategy. As growers celebrate a successful year, it’s the perfect opportunity to plan for the next one. Framing the soil as a “nutrient bank account” is an effective way to introduce the concept of crop removal, where every bushel hauled from the field represents a withdrawal.

Consider these key points when having post-harvest conversations about nutrient replenishment and identifying solutions that benefit both growers’ fields and your retail business’s efficiency.

What is the nutrient cost of a high yield? 

As seed varieties are developed for greater nutrient uptake to achieve higher yields, fertility plans become increasingly important. The requirements to achieve higher yields mean the crop is likely removing both macro- and micronutrients at a higher level than before.

While crops remove nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) at significant rates, micronutrients are used in low quantities, sometimes less than half a pound per acre. The seven trace elements commonly discussed in crop production include boron (B), chlorine (Cl), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo) and zinc (Zn). Even though the need is small, these micronutrients are important for plant development. Soil depletion adds up quickly and the line between optimal performance and deficiency can be very tight. Replacing what the previous crop removed is vital for future performance. 

Guiding the replenishment conversation. 

Your growers' success is your success. You also know that modern, high-yield seed varieties are more efficient at nutrient uptake, which means they are removing more macro- and micronutrients from the soil than ever before. While growers are focused on large withdrawals of N, P and K, it's important to remind them that vital micronutrients are leaving the field as well. Replacing what the previous crop removed is a key part of long-term soil productivity.

Post-harvest micronutrient planning — from reactive to proactive.

Expertise in interpreting soil samples and applying the 4Rs of Nutrient Stewardship is what turns this data into a strategic advantage for growers. By combining soil tests with removal rate data, retailers can build a precise replenishment plan that solidifies your role as a trusted agronomic partner.

A solution for your growers and your business: WOLF TRAX™ DDP™.

The final step is recommending a product that executes with precision. WOLF TRAX™ DDP™ micronutrients are a unique micronutrient fertilizer designed to outperform traditional granular blends.

For growers, the patented EvenCoat™ Technology coats every fertilizer granule, delivering a uniform, blanket-like distribution for consistent nutrient availability. It's a superior product that retailers and advisers can confidently stand behind.

The high-concentration DDP formulation improves operational efficiency. It requires less warehouse space and minimizes dust, making it easier to handle than bulky granular products.

Lead the conversation.

A proactive plan requires knowing not just how many nutrients are removed, but why they matter — and how to avoid micronutrient deficiency before it impacts yield. Explore the fundamental role of micronutrients and the value proactive planning adds to the customer’s bottom line.