A Better Way to Farm Podcast

Are your soybean yields stagnant? Tune in today to hear how you can transform your soybean yields from average to extraordinary with a few strategic changes. Join us for an open conversation with Mike from Minnesota, who did just that. Frustrated by stagnant soybean yields, Mike reached out to A Better Way to Farm for guidance. By incorporating in-depth soil testing, starter fertilizer, micro-nutrients, and foliar feeding into his farming practices, Mike saw his soybean yields soar from 40-50 bushels per acre to 60-70 bushels per acre. He shares the power of targeted input strategies and an open mind. Don't miss out on Mike's practical tips in this episode!

How are farmers supposed to thrive when the cost of production for an acre of corn has skyrocketed from approximately $800 in 2017 to more than $1,100 today? Join us for a discussion with Dr. Scott Irwin, the Norton Chair of Agricultural Marketing from the University of Illinois, as we unpack the soaring production costs, the impact of inflation on farm expenses, and the intricate balance of maintaining profitability in such volatile markets. He offers his expert analysis on the various factors driving these cost increases, from fertilizer and seed to labor and insurance, and delves into the broader implications for the agricultural sector. So, don't miss this comprehensive episode packed with invaluable expertise and practical advice for today's farmers.

What if you could decrease your cost of production while simultaneously increasing your yield by 25 BPA? Join us as we chat with Chad from Northwest Iowa, who has successfully redefined his 1,200-acre corn and bean operation. Chad shares how adopting cutting-edge strategies has made his farm more efficient and profitable. So don't miss this episode's insights on achieving optimal results through innovative and efficient practices.

Enhancing plant health is key to boosting yields and profitability, and we've got the tips to help you do just that! Here we discuss the significant benefits of using Nonionic surfactants to improve spray coverage and absorption, along with the game-changing impact of adding sugar to your tank. Backed by research from the USDA and the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, these methods can lead to increased pest tolerance and higher yields. We will also stress the importance of diligent field scouting to catch aphids early and protect your crop yield. This is an episode packed with practical advice and insights to help you thrive in the ever-evolving agricultural landscape so tune in NOW!

Learn how to navigate today's commodities market with practical insights and strategies that can save your farm from financial peril. On this episode, we welcome back Roger Wright to help decode the unpredictable world of grain marketing. He shares his expertise on how farmers can manage these financial and emotional strains. Gain valuable knowledge on the importance of strategic grain storage and how to capitalize on potential future price rallies. Tune in for insights to help you thrive in today's complex and volatile agricultural market.

Could sugar be the secret ingredient your crops are missing? Join us as we cover the unexpected advantages of incorporating sugar into your farming practices. We dive into the science and history to reveal how sugar applications can boost nutrient uptake, enhance photosynthesis, and improve stress tolerance in crops. We'll cover diverse methods such as foliar feeding, fungicides, herbicides, and in-furrow treatments, and we'll guide you on how to effectively implement sugar treatments in your farming operations. Tune in and discover how a simple, inexpensive ingredient can transform your farming success and boost yields.

Join us on this episode as we uncover the crucial role boron plays in plant nutrition. Listen to insights from a groundbreaking research paper that highlights boron's importance in reducing the accumulation of toxic elements in plants, a discovery that dates back over a century. We'll also discuss boron's impact on various crops, and why addressing boron deficiencies is vital for preventing plant issues. So how does boron content affects overall plant health and productivity? Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your understanding of the importance of adequate boron levels in your farming practices!

Today we explore the world of foliar applied nitrogen and its potential for farming. This episode will equip you with actionable insights that can enhance your yields and profitability. Foliar feeds can stimulate plant growth by making deeper soil nutrients accessible. As you listen, think on how these insights can be applied to your own practices to maximize this year's yield.

Join us as we explore effective strategies for maximizing farm profits by tackling the common challenges of nutrient deficiencies in crops. We'll focus on critical elements like potassium and sulfur. Discover how yellowing in various parts of the plant can signal imbalances in magnesium, manganese, nitrogen, and sulfur, and learn about the crucial 10:1 nitrogen to sulfur ratio. In this episode you'll gain insights from field tests on cost-effective application rates so listen in for practical tips and strategies to ensure your crops thrive and your farm profits soar.

Unlock the secrets to boosting your crop yield and profitability with insights from certified crop advisors Preston Grobe and Tyler Hall. Learn how to sidestep the five common mistakes in foliar feeding that could be cutting your yields and profits. Preston shares actionable advice and the importance of the four R's of agronomy—right rate, right time, right place, and right source—to avoid yield loss. This episode is brimming with strategies to make your farming operations more efficient and profitable.

Join us in this episode as we explore the vital role of boron and its profound impact on crop health and yields. We'll discuss the challenges of retaining negatively charged nutrients like boron, sulfur, and nitrogen in the soil. Do you know that there are scientifically proven methods and resources you can adopt to address these nutrient deficiencies and improve your farming practices? So, listen in as we reveal how by incorporating adequate boron into your farming practices, you can drive root growth, increase nutrient and water uptake, and ultimately enhance your yields and soil health.

Is Yellow flash dragging your yield down? Ever wondered why your soybeans turn yellow after using glyphosate? Today we unravel the mystery behind this common farming issue and provide practical solutions to keep your yield on track. Tune in to hear Rod's expert advice on combating yellow flash effectively. Learn his tried-and-true method of using chelated manganese to keep your crops vibrant and productive, ensuring no "bad days" for your plants. In this episode, you'll have actionable tips to maximize your yield and profitability, all while maintaining robust crop health. Don't let yellow flash put a dent in your profit—get the insights you need to thrive!

Join us as we sit down with Jerry, a Missouri farmer and 25 time yield contest winner, who shares his extensive knowledge on optimizing farm inputs for maximum profit. Jerry recounts his journey in the National Corn Growers Contest and shares how foliar feeding became a cornerstone of Jerry's farming practices in the last 20 years. Jerry provides detailed insights on the exact steps he takes to foliar feed the crop. This episode will provide actionable strategies to improve farm productivity and profitability so don't miss this opportunity to gain knowledge from one of the industry's best and learn how to take your farming practices to the next level.

Are your crops getting all they need to reach max potential? Today we're covering how to achieve the perfect balance of nutrient application that propels your yields to the next level. Today we cover the ins and outs of foliar feeding. You'll Gain invaluable insights into the science of leaf nutrient uptake, and why precision in foliar feeding is key to unlocking the full potential of your crops. So listen in for an episode packed with science, strategy, and savvy insights that could revolutionize your approach to farming and profitability.

Listen in as we uncover the essentials of tissue testing for nutrient management in crops such as corn and soybeans. We'll take you through the importance of early and accurate detection of nutrient deficiencies through tissue testing, a key step for successful foliar feeding. By following strategic testing throughout various growth phases, we can pave the way for informed decisions in both current and future cultivation practices. Tune in to this episode to learn how combining tissue and soil testing helps to create the most precise nutrient management strategy that boosts your farm's productivity and profitability.

Unlock the potential of your crops and raise your yields at harvests with our deep-dive into micronutrients. They have colossal impact on crop health and yield. This episode is a masterclass in precision agriculture—tailoring application methods, understanding the importance of soil testing, and choosing the right micronutrient products. We share invaluable insights into foliar feeding strategies and the art of selecting micronutrient products based on specific crop needs.

Could the future of farming be a spoonful of sugar? This episode stirs up the conversation on a groundbreaking farm practice that's giving farmers a new lease on their soil's productivity. We're unpacking research that reveals how sugar can revolutionize plant growth, soil health, and yield potential. It's time to embrace change and sprinkle some experimental spirit over your farm by applying sugar. Join us for this thought- provoking episode with a touch of sweetness this growing season.

Today Rod discusses strategic fertilizer management and the role it plays in farm profitability. He shares research that reveals what the most profitable farms are spending on fertilizer. Rod uncovers a startling truth: top-performing farms are spending significantly less on fertilizer! Join us as we unpack the common blunders of overapplying nitrogen and discuss the nuanced relationship between nitrogen rates and crop yield. Tune in for these insights on cost-effective crop management and more, as we aim to help your farm achieve sustainable profitability.

Unlock the secrets to combat soybean cyst nematode and tar spot, as we share expert-led strategies that can protect your crops and increase your yields. This episode brings you the latest on how to fight against the relentless spread of SCN and how cytokinins, a plant growth regulator, can revolutionize your approach. Discover how strengthening your plants can make them less susceptible to these pests, and offering actionable insights to keep these diseases at bay. Today, you will learn the game- changers for your soil and crop vitality.

In this episode, Tyler talks about combining sugar with nitrogen in your farming operation. He highlights the role of sugar as a carbohydrate source when applied with nitrogen, particularly for pre-emergent applications. This thought-provoking discussion is not just about nutrient management but also about respecting each farmer's unique decision-making process. Tune in to discover innovative farming practices that could up your game in crop nutrition and soil health.

Unlock the secrets of growing better wheat with Chris, an Oklahoma farmer as he reveals the innovative techniques their farm has used in transforming soil health and yields. He shares the art of optimizing wheat production. This episode is rich with stories of accidental experiments, innovation, and the unwavering goal of leaving the land richer for the coming generations.

Join us as we sit down with Greg from Central Illinois, who shares his story of embracing innovative strategies for enhancing crop yields and promoting sustainability. Listen in as Greg details the challenges he faced with soil types and unpredictable weather, his past fertility practices, and the plateau in yields that led him to seek out new solutions.

Unlock the secrets to maximizing yield with a deep dive into spring nutrient application. Our discussion sheds light on the various factors that can make or break your crop's success, such as soil type, moisture levels, and the delicate balance required when working with products like anhydrous ammonia. As we navigate the changing landscape of agriculture, this episode aims to ignite a spark in growers, encouraging a rethink of fertilization strategies for optimal yields.

Today Rod covers the ins and outs of managing newly acquired rented farmland. Listen in as we tackle the challenge of optimizing soil fertility, sharing our best strategies for dealing with high or low pH levels. We will examine the pitfalls of fertility programs that may not yield the expected results, emphasizing the need for efficiency on your rented land. Get ready to boost your yield after listening to this podcast.

Today Tyler and Rod tackle misconceptions around micronutrients that farmers face. We dissect common misconceptions in ag retail and stress the importance of a well-rounded nutritional balance for crops. This episode highlights the impact of comprehensive soil testing and strategic management of farm inputs to enhance profitability. The A Better Way to Farm team is ready to help serve your farm, so just reach out! We are dedicated to empowering farmers with knowledge, ensuring they reap the rewards of their hard work.

Join us today as we sit down with Scott, a farmer and Certified Crop Advisor from Chamberlain, South Dakota. We explore the intricate world of wheat production and his journey from working at a co-op to returning to his roots as a full-time farmer. Today, Scott shares insights on how working with the A Better Way to Farm program has increased his wheat yields and profitability. Tune in as we share the secrets to maximizing wheat yield through a focus on plant health. We're challenging the status quo and changing the mindset about wheat as a secondary crop can lead to significant improvements in both productivity and financial returns. Don't miss out on this conversation, and an optimistic view on the untapped potential of higher managed wheat.

Join us as we discuss the shifts of herbicide use on our farms, with a spotlight on the EPA's recent regulatory changes concerning dicamba and BASF's launch of a new herbicide. Tyler and Rod offer their insights, criticizing the trend of repackaging old chemicals as new solutions and highlighting the essential role of weather conditions in product performance. This timely discussion also sheds light on the herbicide classification chart. This episode not only addresses the cost per gallon but also focuses on cost- effectiveness per acre, reinforcing the value of returning to proven agricultural practices and offering hope and actionable solutions in the face of dicamba changes.

Unlock the secrets of soil health and give your crops the upper hand with micronutrients. This episode promises to change the way you manage your farm's soil. We take a deep dive into the game-changers that are often overlooked. Learn how to tweak the soil's nutritional balance to amplify natural plant hormones, leading to a surge in farm productivity that's both sustainable and profitable. Join us for an episode that will help you decide if bugs in a jug are a worthwhile investment for your farm.

Listen in as Dan, a forward-thinking grower from Wisconsin, joins us to share his journey with A Better Way to Farm. This discussion unveils the pivotal shifts Dan made moving away from traditional co-op fertility practices to incorporating innovative farming techniques and inputs. This conversation shines a light on the power of education and being open to new ideas, which can dramatically enhance farm productivity and profitability. Join us for this eye-opening episode where Dan's story may just inspire you to start something new on your own farming practices.

Today Tyler is covering the critical nutrient of nitrogen. We're covering Nitrogen management. Discover why cutting back on nitrogen applications doesn't have to mean sacrificing yields. As farmers, we are constantly adapting to rising costs, and this episode sheds light on efficient strategies that don't just save you money, but also improve crop yields. Don't miss this discussion to guide you through enhancing your nitrogen efficiency and optimizing your farming strategies for a more profitable future.

Join us as we share tips to make your spray drones more efficient. We unveil the pivotal role adjuvants play in enhancing the performance of herbicides, fungicides, and foliar fertilizers. Chris, with his hands-on experience on his own farm, shares invaluable insights into using concentrated adjuvants for low volume spraying. Brian adds depth with his knowledge from custom application work, collectively guiding growers on utilizing spray drone technology to its fullest potential for improved crop yields and profitability. We shed light on the importance of using high-quality products to avoid blockages in the drone's spraying mechanisms and how spray volumes and pressures can impact application success. This episode arms you with the knowledge to conduct successful jar tests to prevent potential application mishaps, ensuring a smooth and effective spraying experience with drones.

Join us on this episode as we explore the added benefits of micronutrients. We unpack their vital roles, not only in nurturing plant health but also in maintaining soil vitality. We also turn our attention to the soil microbiology that holds the key to fertility. Discover how the right micronutrient mix can bolster soil health, leading to a better farm ecosystem.

Listen in as we share insights into the strategies that our clients have q implemented to navigate rising costs, market volatility, and extreme weather conditions. In this episode, you'll hear firsthand success stories that show the significance of diversifying income streams, and the unyielding commitment to the American farmer. Hear how teamwork is the lifeblood of our success and how our recent district manager's are raising their skills. So for those who have ever considered joining us, this episode is your gateway. Our stories here are a powerful reminder of the growth and opportunities that await your operation.

Listen in as we sit down with Indiana farmer Zach, who takes us through his journey of revolutionizing his farming practices. Discover the remarkable transformation from his conventional approach to soybean farming to the innovative A Better Way to Farm methods. He sheds light on the tangible improvements in yield and efficiency he witnessed by implementing new strategies on his fields. His results are not just academic; they're evidenced by the yield boosts and reduced costs on his farm. Join us for this enlightening discussion that's packed with real-world insights and forward-thinking farming practices.

We're bringing real-life narratives to the forefront with 3 innovative farmers – Sam, Andy, and Dalton – each with their own story of embracing new practices on their farm. Listen in as they candidly share their journeys of transforming their farm. They all share the profound impact of upgrading their farming techniques has had on their lives. This episode isn't just about sharing successes; it's about encouraging you to seize the day and take the necessary steps toward a brighter future. Join us as we cover these insightful stories, and maybe you'll discover a better way to farm.

Join us as we wrap up a season of insightful dialogues aimed at arming you with the knowledge you need to ask the right questions and maximize your farm's profitability. Let's shed light on the art of reallocating input dollars based on precise soil test recommendations, focusing on the often-overlooked realm of micronutrients. Listen in as we underscore the importance of comprehensive plant nutrition. Join our mission to foster farm sustainability as we peel back the layers of agronomic principles for a bountiful harvest this year!

Join us as our client Tyler Janky shares his journey toward more profitable farming. We'll explore Tyler's transition from traditional farming methods to a better approach which not only boosted his yields but also improved profitability. We stress the importance of proactive management, particularly in fertility and nutrient timing, revealing how these strategies can lead to sustainability on the farm. Tyler shares about the significance of doing plot trials and how soil and tissue testing played a pivotal role in his success. If improving soybean yields is on your to do list in 2024 this episode is for you.

Unlock the secrets of zinc, the unsung hero of plant nutrition, and elevate your farming game to new heights! We're peeling back the layers on this vital micronutrient's role in supporting healthy crop growth, from its involvement in hormone production to its critical function in developing chlorophyll, carbohydrates, and seeds. Prepare to be enlightened on how zinc, nitrogen, and phosphorus form a trifecta of plant nutrition, especially pivotal in corn production. So, don your jolliest Christmas shirt and join the conversation as we reaffirm our dedication to the farming community. Join us for an episode that's as nourishing to the mind as zinc is to your crops!

We're pulling back the curtain of a few nutrients today. First Molybdenum, aka ‘Moly', its starring role is in nitrogen conversion and fixation within your crops. Precision in Moly's application is the key to avoiding toxicity. Next we discuss the misunderstood world of chlorine and chloride. Yes, they're different, and yes, it matters – a lot! With insights drawn from Beck's comprehensive research, we'll equip you with the strategies needed to ensure your farm decisions maximize your profits.

Join us on this episode as we cover the importance of manganese in your soil. We shed light on its symbiotic relationship with nutrients like phosphorus and calcium, and how soil pH can be the game-changer in manganese availability. Listen in as we explore the delicate balance needed to prevent both deficiency and toxicity in your crops. So tune in and gain knowledge that could not only lead to a better harvest but also contribute to your farm's bottom line. We're covering insights that could transform how you manage nutrients on your farm.

Today we're covering iron's role in crop nutrition and the balance necessary for its management in the soil. We also touch on the synergy between this crucial micronutrient and others, like phosphorus, magnesium, and manganese. We're also digging into the importance of comprehensive soil management and strategic nutrient management. Tune in as we cover the latest findings on foliar feeding with iron chelates and the varying laboratory methods for soil testing. Today is a comprehensive overview that could be the key to unlocking a profitable future for your farm.

Hey fellow farmers, in this episode we are bringing you a hearty dose of farming wisdom right from America's Heartland. This time around, we're shedding light on the critical, yet often overlooked, role of copper in maximizing farm profit. Listen in as we unpack the myriad ways copper serves as a pivotal micronutrient in plant development—from boosting photosynthesis and reproductive stages to enhancing chlorophyll production and overall plant vigor. Don't miss this informative session that could be the key to unlocking the full potential of your field. This episode has a golden nugget of knowledge for everyone listening so tune in, take notes, and let's grow together.

Listen in as we explore the role of Boron in farming, a micronutrient that's crucial for the lifecycle of crops from germination to harvest. It's not just about what Boron does – it's also about managing it effectively to enhance nitrogen utilization and avoid the pitfalls of deficiencies that have recently become more common. Join us as we discover the connection between essential micronutrients and the microbial life within our soils, and how this understanding can lead to improved plant health and yield. So, grab your favorite festive sweater, and let's celebrate the season with a conversation that could change the way you think about micronutrients.

Unlock the secrets of sulfur's untapped potential. Today we're doing a deep dive into this lesser-known nutrient. We're sharing its importance in amino acid formation, seed production, and chlorophyll creation. Tune in as we shed light on the critical role organic matter plays in retaining sulfur in the soil. In this episode, you'll learn about the symbiotic relationship between sulfur, magnesium, and calcium. You'll also hear more about the importance of a balanced approach to soil nutrition. Join us on this episode to discover how a holistic approach to soil health can result in optimal outcomes for your farm.

Today we discuss the significance of calcium for your farm's soil health. We share how calcium is the unsung hero of nutrients. Calcium plays a pivotal role in cell division, nitrogen metabolism, and fruit development. Today's discussion challenges the popular Mehlich-3 soil test and highlights the benefits of liming acidic soils. Join us as we dig into into these critical aspects of soil health and farming for maximized yields and profits.

Listen in as we uncover the secrets of maximizing profit on your farm by focusing on the crucial role of magnesium. We explore how magnesium is vital for chlorophyll production, phosphorus utilization, and activating plant enzymes. We highlight the danger of excess magnesium and discuss the importance of achieving a balance with other nutrients like calcium and sodium. Don't miss out as we investigate the interplay between magnesium and nitrogen and their combined effects on our soils. Here, we touch upon the intriguing topic of magnesium versus manganese and their influence on plant health and growth. As we always say, managing a farm isn't just about the crops; it's about the soil, the nutrients, and most importantly, the balance. Let's go in!

Join us as we dig into the role of potassium on your farm. Rod covers the importance and potential misuse of this essential nutrient. Discover how potassium plays a crucial role in plant growth and farm profitability. The cation exchange capacity (CEC) of soil and its role in determining potassium availability. Listen in as we discuss how maintaining a proper balance between potassium and magnesium levels can increase yields. Learn the importance of balancing potassium with other elements, efficient water usage, and understanding the microbial activity in the soil for long-term success. In this episode you will learn strategies to maximize your farm's profitability.

On this episode, we turn our attention to the critical role of phosphorus in crop production. Listen in as we share valuable insights on the significance of phosphorus in crop development, and its importance for photosynthesis, respiration, and energy storage. Uncover the reasons why using orthophosphate ions for plant uptake can make all the difference in raising yields profitability. Join us in this engaging conversation on phosphorus management and holiday cheers!

Join us on this episode as we kick off our 12 Days of Nutrients series, where we're starting with the big one - Nitrogen. Listen in as we uncover the importance of this essential nutrient for plant growth, discussing everything from fertilizer labeling to the preferred form of nitrogen for corn. We will also discuss the symptoms of nitrogen deficiency so listen in as we also reveal the effects of nitrogen overuse on soil health and crop yield. So, stay tuned with us as we journey through this series.

Join us as we interview Dalton, a first generation farmer. He shares how he got started farming, his passion for production ag and the steps he is taking to take his yields to the next. He also shares his experience of reaching out to A Better Way to Farm and the lessons he has learned. If you're looking for off farm income Dalton also shares the benefits of being part of a team that prioritizes soil testing and personalized recommendations.

You're in for a treat today as we sit down with Jim Grilliot from Midwest Labs, a leading authority on soil, water, and food testing. We cover everything from the history of Midwest Labs and their impressive growth since 1975 to their stringent quality control measures. Jim pulls back the curtain on the critical role of calibration and check samples in their operations. We shed light on how the soil testing method can significantly impact your farming operations. So, join us as we answer these invaluable insights and together strive to boost yields and profitability on our farms.