The Dirt: an eKonomics podKast

Follow The Dirt: an eKonomics podKast
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

An eKonomics podKast featuring down-and-dirty agronomic science to help grow crops and bottom lines. Inspired by eKonomics.com, farming’s go-to information resource, hear Mike break down the latest crop nutrition research and news— helping farmers make be

Mike Howell


    • Apr 22, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • every other week NEW EPISODES
    • 27m AVG DURATION
    • 121 EPISODES


    Search for episodes from The Dirt: an eKonomics podKast with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from The Dirt: an eKonomics podKast

    The Surprising Science Behind Sweet Potato Production

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 30:57


    How many crops can actually benefit from stress? Sweet potatoes are in a league of their own.  In fact, they've recently become Mississippi's official state vegetable.   Join Mike Howell and Crop Consultant, Phil McKibben, as they explore the surprising science behind sweet potato production. Explore what makes this crop different, from their resilience under stress to the important role of the mother plant. Dive into everything from soil fertility considerations to harvest management tips on this episode of The Dirt.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com    Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics 

    Supercharging Your Soil With Starter Fertilizers

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2025 30:27


    Do starter fertilizers really set you up for success? Join Mike Howell and Nutrien Senior Agronomist, Dr. Alan Blaylock, as they uncover the role that starter fertilizer plays in our fields. From early crop growth and root development to stronger yields and earlier maturity, we uncover how you can supercharge your soil with starters.   Tune in to uncover the benefits and potential limitations of starting your season with starter fertilizer. Explore expert insights that can help you sprout success this season—from placement tips to safe application rates.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Spreading Success With Manure Management

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2025 37:56


    Managing manure may not be glamorous, but it can be a key player in your nutrient management plan. Unpack the nutrient value of manure in this episode of The Dirt. From what your soil says about manure management to the benefits and drawbacks, we explore it all to help you uncover its true value in your fields.   What's the difference between dry and liquid manure? How much manure can you apply? How is manure stored throughout the season? How does composting support manure management? Uncover the dirt truth about manure in this episode of The Dirt featuring Penn State University professors, Robert Meinen and Charles White.   Calculate the economic value of manure today at www.extension.psu.edu/manure-nutrient-value-calculator.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    The Goalpost Has Moved: Soil's New Demands

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2025 31:30


    The goalpost has shifted in nutrient management—are you keeping up?   Explore new insights from the University of Kentucky to help meet your soil's rising demand for nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulfur on this episode of The Dirt.   Declining soil test levels inspired the University to revisit their nutrient management recommendations. What actually changed? How can you maintain an optimum rate of each nutrient? Find out everything you need to know in this exciting episode with Mike Howell and John H. Grove.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Maximizing Fertilizer Efficiency on a Budget

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2025 30:33


    Uncover the pros and cons of cutting back on fertilizer and strategies to optimize fertilizer efficiency. Kick off season four with Mike Howell as he takes a closer look at how growers can manage phosphorus and potassium under tight budgets and the importance of maintaining an optimum soil test range. Explore the value of fertilizer in various soil types, uncover tips for managing your nutrient budget and discover how nutrients work together to boost your yield and profitability.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Boosting Bottom Lines In Today's Market

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2025 23:14


    Are costs trending in a positive direction? How will looming tariffs impact your profitability? What do crop prices look like in today's market conditions? Dive into the state of the current agriculture market with Mike Howell and Iowa State University Extension Economist, Chad Hart, on this episode of The Dirt.   What do fertilizer costs look like this year? How is the weather affecting crop prices and market conditions? What do the corn, cotton and soybean crop markets look like today? Explore everything you need to know about the economics of farming and current market conditions on this episode of The Dirt.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Tariffs Explained: What It Means for Agriculture

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2025 26:58


    What will agriculture look like this year? From tariffs and trade to farm bills and ag innovation, the President and CEO of The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) breaks down the latest issues they are advocating for around the world. Dig into the role that TFI plays in fertilizer industry and the critical issues they focus on. From energy policy to the effects of Tariffs on the fertilizer supply chain, we break down everything you need to know about what's next for agriculture.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Preparing for Planting: What the Weather Says

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2025 21:08


    What's up with the weather? From western wildfires to southern snow, we go all in on the weather to help you prepare for a successful growing season.   Mike Howell kicks off season four with crowd favorite, Principal Atmospheric Scientist and Nutrien Senior Science Fellow, Eric Snodgrass, to explore how winter and spring weather will affect the upcoming planting and growing season. Where can growers expect drought, flooding or other unexpected conditions? What patterns are appearing? What does La Niña tell us about growing conditions? Uncover everything you need to know about the weather in this exciting episode.   Check out ag-wx.com for all of Eric's recent weather content.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    A Tale of Two Thanksgivings

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2024 31:01


    Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to celebrate and give thanks for a bountiful harvest. But it's celebrated in its own way around the world.   Why do Canadians celebrate in October? What Thanksgiving traditions are celebrated, and what meals are enjoyed in both the United States and Canada? Are Canadians spending Thanksgiving watching football or hockey? Explore the tale of two Thanksgivings as Mike Howell, and special guest, Lyle Cowell, explore the history and origin of Canadian and American Thanksgiving in this holiday episode of The Dirt.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Managing Soybean's Yield Robbing Diseases

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2024 21:50


    What are some of the most common diseases that soybean growers face? How does soil fertility, crop rotation, soil moisture and the weather impact disease management? How do soil health and disease management go hand-in-hand?   Tune into this week's episode as Mike Howell chats with soybean specialist, Dr. Wade Webster, to explore best practices and research-driven solutions for disease management. From white mold to soybean cyst nematode, this episode will help you explore common soybean diseases and effective management tools for a greater yield and ROI this season.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics 

    The Path to Pasture Profitability

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2024 24:22


    How can you enhance your forage production to improve profitability? What are some of the most common challenges that cattle producers face in creating profitability on their beef operations? How can you elevate your livestock grazing system to enhance profitability?   Tune in as Mike Howell and special guest, Carson Roberts from the University of Missouri, sit down to share their insights and discuss new and upcoming research and findings. From Roberts' current research insights to his plans for future projects on milo and native forages, we uncover it all.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Sulfur and Nitrogen, The Dynamic Duo

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2024 39:23


    How can you achieve the right balance of sulfur and nitrogen in your soil? What effect do these two nutrients have on plant nutrition and crop yield? How do sulfur and nitrogen work together in the field?   Tune in to this week's episode as Mike Howell sits down with Senior Agronimist, Dr. Alan Blaylock, to uncover the relationship between sulfur and nitrogen. From achieving balanced nutrition and addressing deficiencies to the latest research in the industry, this episode digs into everything you need to know about sulfur and nitrogen management and growing healthy crops.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Celebrating 65 Years of Potash Production

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2024 17:32


    Join Mike Howell and special guest, Nutrien's Senior Vice President of Potash Operations, Trevor Berg, as they celebrate 65 years of potash production in Saskatchewan, Canada.   Follow Nutrien's journey in potash, from the first Patience Lake mine in 1959 to producing over 20% of the world's potash supply, we dig into it all. Uncover the volunteers, community members and employees who work together to mine this valuable resource, and learn more about the history of potash production and mining in the province of Saskatchewan.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Turning to the Tropics: Farming's Future

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2024 36:02


    Travel to Trinidad in this week's episode as we discuss agriculture and farming in Trinidad and Tobago. What crops are most commonly grown in the region? What challenges do growers face in crop production? What opportunities are available for farmers in Trinidad and Tobago? And how will Nutrien's Model Farm and Agricultural Resource Centre change the future of farming? We uncover it all.   Listeners will walk away with a strong understanding of agriculture in the Trinidad and Tobago region and how Nutrien is working to support their goal of reducing their food import bill by 25% by 2025.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Weathered But Strong: Rebuilding Georgia's Agriculture Sector

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2024 29:21


    In this special episode of The Dirt, Mike Howell is joined by Georgia Farm Bureau President Tom McCall to delve into the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene on Georgia's agricultural sector. Tune in as they explore the challenges faced by farmers in the aftermath of this natural disaster, including crop destruction, infrastructure damage, and economic losses.   For more information on how you can help, or to donate to Georgia farmers, visit https://supportgeorgiafarmers.org. The Weathered But Strong: Hurricane Relief Fund is a cross-industry fundraising initiative aimed at supporting Georgia farmers impacted by Hurricane Helene. The fund will provide direct assistance for agricultural losses, including damages to crops, livestock, and farm infrastructure. 100% of the funds raised will go toward farmers in need in Georgia.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Soil Synergies: New Research & Trials

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2024 37:26


    Tune in to this week's episode of The Dirt as Mike Howell sits down with Dr. John Jones to discuss his new agronomic role at the University of Illinois and his important research in soil fertility and agronomy.   Take a close look at Dr. Jones' areas of research and the agronomic challenges he is helping producers solve. From the relationship between soil properties and nutrient use efficiency to soil acidity and liming recommendations, we dig into the research and trials that Jones is performing to support farmers across the state.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Building Banks and Boosting Yields

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2024 28:48


    North Dakota growers, this episode is for you! This week, Mike Howell sits down with Brady Goettl, the new Assistant Professor of Extension Soil Science with North Dakota State University. From building banks to boosting yields, we uncover expert insights to help North Dakota growers.   Tune in as we discuss navigating nutrient management in North Dakota and the importance of supporting your soil. What research has been done to support North Dakota farmers? What unique challenges does the state face in crop production, and how can we address them? Uncover everything you need to know about nutrient management in North Dakota today.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Lessons in La Niña: Fall 2024 Weather Update

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2024 30:58


    Take a quick trip around the globe with crowd favorite, Nutrien Science Fellow and Principal Atmospheric Scientist, Eric Snodgrass. Join us as we explore recent weather patterns, tropical systems and atmospheric events that will impact agricultural production around the world.   We go all in on the weather—from recent hurricane activity and bouts of drought to the newly brewing La Niña. What does the current weather outlook tell us about our fall and winter seasons? How will it impact crop production around the globe? Tune in to hear Eric's expert predictions and insights.   Check out ag-wx.com for all of Eric's recent weather content.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Rotational Grazing: A Recipe for Regenerative Ag

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2024 27:22


    Rotational grazing offers a variety of benefits to growers, their crops and livestock. From enhancing cattle productivity to improving forage stands, rotations provide us with substanial value.   Gain valuable insights into the benefits of rotational grazing and the technologies that have advanced its efficiency from Brianna Elliot, Techgonomist at Olds College. This episode of The Dirt will provide growers with helpful information about the reality of rotational grazing and its impact on sustainability based on research performed at Olds College.   To learn more about projects that the Technology Access Centre for Livestock Production is working on, visit www.oldscollege.ca.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Timing Tips: Applying Phosphorus and Potassium

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2024 57:32


    Tune in as we continue the conversation around phosphorus and potassium management. Today, we dig into fall versus spring application.   From the logistics of spring and fall applications and the benefits of fall applications, to the impact of weather on application timing and the effect of P+K on crop production, we dig into everything you need to know about applying P+K.   What conditions warrant spring applications? How much P+K do major crops require? Join Mike Howell, and guests Dr. Antonio Mallarino and Dr. Alan Blaylock, as they come to you live from the 2024 Farm Progress Show.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Grower's Guide: Phosphorus and Potassium Management

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2024 55:51


    Tune in to this exciting episode recorded at the 2024 Farm Progress Show! Sit down with Mike Howell, and guests Dr. Antonio Mallarino and Dr. Alan Blaylock, as they discuss new phosphorus and potassium recommendations and the importance of P+K in crop production.   What recommendations have changed when it comes to managing phosphorus and potassium? Why are these nutrients critical to crop production, and how do they support growers on their journey to maintaining yield and profitability? Uncover everything you need to know about the basics of P+K management in this episode of The Dirt. Tune in next week as we continue this exciting conversation.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Next on Nitrogen: Fall Applications and Smart Sources

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2024 27:06


    The 100th episode of The Dirt PodKast is coming to you LIVE from the 2024 Farm Progress Show. Tune in to this exciting episode as we chat about fall nitrogen applications and the importance of nitrogen management.   Join host Mike Howell, and guests Richard Roth and Jeff Hink, as they dive in to all things fall-applied nitrogen—from how to prevent loss to the most common sources and products.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com    Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    The Ag Agenda: Policy Priorities For Farmers

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2024 44:08


    Join us on this episode of The Dirt as we break down the complex world of agricultural policy. Mike Howell is joined by Nutrien Manager of Government & Industry Affairs Connor Hamburg to delve into how he represents farmers on Capitol Hill, three policy priorities for agriculture and what the Farm Bill really entails.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics  

    Finding Strength in the Struggle

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2024 30:47


    Everyone's journey through life looks different, and we all face our own challenges and obstacles. How can we overcome them when life gets hard? Listen in as Mike Howell sits down with two master's students, Amanda Mitchell and Stacie Yaremko, as part of our series focused on mental health. Join us as we chat about the challenges these students have faced and the courage they've had to overcome them.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com    Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Australia's Acres: Farming Down Under

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2024 22:50


    What does agriculture look like in Australia? Join host Mike Howell and guest Kara Bryant as they uncover everything you need to know about farming in Australia. From the differences in our seasons and the most common crops in the region, to soil fertility and sustainable production practices, this episode dives in to all things Australian ag.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com    Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics 

    The FRST Step to Optimizing Fertilizer Use

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2024 34:26


    On this episode of The Dirt, Mike Howell reconnects with Dr. Nathan Slaton to chat about the future of nutrient management and the FRST program—the fertilizer recommendation support tool.   How can we use collective soil test data to inform fertilizer use? Dive in as Dr. Nathan Slaton walks us through the value of the FRST program and how it will help us better understand soil test recommendations.   Visit www.soiltestfrst.org to learn more about the fertilizer recommendation support tool and try it out for yourself today.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    The Necessity of Nutrients

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2024 33:41


    Tune in to this week's episode of The Dirt as Mike Howell sits down with Dr. Audrey Gamble to chat about soil fertility and the necessity of managing nutrients in our crops. Dr. Gamble uncovers the important work that Auburn University has done on the Cullars Rotation as they perform on-farm soil fertility trials.   How does a field without nitrogen or potassium perform? How does each nutrient impact yield? They explore all this and more while helping you uncover key insights for your nutrient management plan.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Fertilizer: Feeding the World

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2024 51:10


    On this week's episode of The Dirt, Mike Howell sits down with Dr. Alan Blaylock and Dr. Rob Mikkelson to discuss the history of the fertilizer industry.   How did we discover the need for crop nutrition? How did the modern fertilizer industry begin and how does it impact farming today? How did we discover these nutrients and process them for fertilizer? Uncover everything you need to know about the past, present and future of the fertilizer industry in this week's exciting episode.   Visit the Crops and Soils Magazine at www.agronomy.org to read Alan and Rob's articles on the development of the fertilizer industry.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    2024 Market Outlook

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2024 30:43


    Tune in with Mike Howell and special guest Mark Tully as they review the current market environment and take a closer look at commodity and fertilizer pricing as it stands today.   As the Manager of Market Research at Nutrien, Tully has a unique understanding of the current environment. From supply and demand trends and commodity prices to fertilizer production and global market changes, Tully breaks down everything you need to know this season.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    For Soil's Sake

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2024 32:30


    Join Mike Howell on this week's episode of The Dirt as he sits down with the President of the Soil Science Society of America, Michael Thompson, to discuss how the organization supports soil science.   Mike and Michael take a closer look at variety of disciplines that exist in soil science and the ways that the SSSA supports them. They dive into the importance of soil science and how we can work together to teach others about the vital role that soil plays in our world.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com    Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics 

    The Conservation Conversation

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2024 29:13


    On this week's episode of The Dirt, join host Mike Howell as he sits down with Jacob Taylor, a Precision Ag and Conservation Specialist at Quail Forever.   Mike and Jacob take a look at how farmers can positively contribute to the conservation of wildlife using their unproductive land. The best part? Jacob shares how farmers can make a profit while doing it.   Visit www.quailforever.org to learn more about conservation practices for your farm.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com    Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Soil Secrets: Subsurface Moisture

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2024 32:04


    Join Mike Howell and guests Dr. Lee Burras and Rebecca Vittetoe as they chat about how soil moisture can impact your crops and nutrient management plans. Gain valuable insights into how subsurface moisture works and the innovative technologies we can use to measure it.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Fertility, Forage & The 4Rs

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2024 39:49


    On this episode of The Dirt, Mike Howell reconnects with Lyle Cowell, Senior Agronomist at Nutrien, to discuss how you can make the most out of your fertilizer during forage production.   Mike and Lyle take a closer look at forage production in North America and how to best maintain soil fertility for maximum production. Learn more about the role of nitrogen in forage crops and best practices for 4R Nutrient Management in this week's episode of the Dirt.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    12-time Pro Rodeo Announcer of the Year Talks Mental Health

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2024 51:15


    Join Mike Howell as he chats with Brett Gardiner, 12-time Canadian Pro Rodeo announcer of the year.   Brett and Mike continue the ongoing discussion about mental health in agriculture, focusing in on the impacts on males in the agriculture community. They chat stigma, getting over the initial barrier to seeking help and where to go for help when the need arises.   For mental health support in Alberta, Canada visit agknow.ca   In the United States, you can find your Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network regional information here: https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/programs/farm-ranch-stress-assistance-network-frsan   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com    Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Optimism Ahead: 2024 Global Weather Forecast

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2024 34:20


    Mike Howell reconnects with crowd-favorite Eric Snodgrass, Principal Atmospheric Scientist at Nutrien Ag Solutions to discuss recent weather events like the derecho that hit Houston, wild solar activity and the shift from El Niño to La Niña.   Eric then discusses some of the wider climate trends and crop impacts we're seeing around the world as we head into summer. You won't want to miss Eric Snodgrass's depth of knowledge and expertise, so be sure to listen in.   Check out ag-wx.com for all of Eric's recent weather content.   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics Head to nutrien-ekonomics.com for the latest in crop nutrition research.

    Sulfur: More Than Just Fertilizer

    Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2024 26:56


    Mike Howell connects with Craig Jorgenson, President and CEO of The Sulphur Institute to discuss the wider uses of sulfur.   More than just the fourth major crop nutrient, this versatile element is an important industrial material to the mining, chemical and energy industries. It is also essential to producing other fertilizers, such as phosphate.   Learn more about The Sulphur Institute at sulphurinstitute.org   To discover the latest crop nutrition research, visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Reaching Out: Managing On-Farm Stress

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2024 29:36


    On this episode of The Dirt, host Mike Howell speaks with Dr. Florence Becot, a professor at Penn State University and lead of the Ag Safety and Health Program.   They dive deeper into the impacts of mental health on the farm, where farmers can reach out for help, who else can help farmers who might be struggling or in a crisis, and how farmers can support other farmers not only in their communities but across the country.   Find your Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network regional information here:  https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/programs/farm-ranch-stress-assistance-network-frsan     To discover the latest crop nutrition research, visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

    Put Your Soil Test to the Test

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2024 25:14


    Soil testing offers a great perspective into your soil and nutrient management, but there are some factors to consider for getting the most accurate results. Listen as host Mike Howell visits with Dr. Bryan Hopkins on soil testing and the considerations you should make when testing and analyzing your soil results.   To discover the latest crop nutrition research, visit nutrien-ekonomics.com For further resources on soil sampling, check out our Soil Sampling 101 toolkit: https://nutrien-ekonomics.com/agronomics/toolkits/soil-sampling/

    Decoding the Dicamba Dilemma

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2024 32:31


    A recent court ruling essentially took several dicamba-based herbicides off the market for American farmers growing soybeans and cotton. Host Mike Howell and guest Tom Eubanks discuss the impact this will have on US-based soybean and cotton growers, what the courts have stated about remaining stocks of these products, and how growers can voice their concerns.   To discover the latest crop nutrition research, visit nutrien-eKonomics.com

    Where Has All the Potassium Gone?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2024 34:27


    Tune in with Mike Howell and returning guest Dr. Alan Blaylock, Senior Agronomist at Nutrien as they discuss the current needs of potassium in soils across the country. You'll learn what trends they've seen in nation-wide soil tests and what growers can do to combat those trends. They also chat about the value that potassium can add to crops beyond an increase in yield.   For more information on the resources discussed in this episode, check out the links below:   Potassium Is Also An Essential Human Nutrient: https://nutrien-ekonomics.com/news/potassium-is-also-an-essential-human-nutrient/   Rise in Potassium Deficiency in the US Population Linked to Agriculture Practices and Dietary Potassium Deficits: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.jafc.0c05139   National Testing Lab Finds More Soils Testing “Low” or “Very Low” for Potassium: https://nutrien-ekonomics.com/news/national-testing-lab-finds-more-soils-testing-low-or-very-low-for-potassium/   Key Growing States See Declining Soil Potassium Levels: https://nutrien-ekonomics.com/news/key-growing-states-see-declining-soil-potassium-levels/#:~:text=Many%20key%20growing%20states%20are%20seeing%20declining,below%20the%20critical%20level.%20Why%20the%20decline?   Declining Potassium Levels: A Growing Concern In The Mid-South eKonomics News Team: https://www.croplife.com/sponsor/nutrien/declining-potassium-levels-a-growing-concern-in-the-mid-south-ekonomics-news-team/   To discover the latest crop nutrition research, visit nutrien-eKonomics.com

    How Your Water Source Impacts Your Pesticides

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2024 25:05


    Host Mike Howell and returning guest Karl Wyant, Director of Agronomy, Nutrien, discuss the impacts your water sources can have on the effectiveness of your spray applications of pesticides and fertilizers.   To check out the Purdue University study on the impact of water quality on pesticide performance, visit https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/ppp/ppp-86.pdf   To discover the latest crop nutrition research, visit nutrien-eKonomics.com

    Agriculture + Mental Health: Breaking the Stigma

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2024 35:30


    On this episode of The Dirt, Mike Howell connects with Melissa Ploeckelman, Outreach Specialist with the National Farm Medicine Center. They dive into the topic of on-farm mental health and how the stress of farming can impact the mental health of farmers.   Mental health can sometimes be a taboo subject, especially in the world farmers operate in. Mike and Melissa speak to how to work past the stigma, who to reach out to in times of crisis and how to help others who might be struggling with mental health challenges.   If you or someone you know is struggling, call 988 from anywhere in the United States to reach a trained counselor.   To learn more about virtual QPR training, visit www.agrisafe.org   To learn more about the 9-8-8 crisis helpline, visit https://988.ca   To discover the latest crop nutrition research, visit nutrien-eKonomics.com

    Liquid Fertilizers: What's In Your Mix?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2024 23:39


    Join our host, Mike Howell as he chats with Dr. Karl Wyant, Director of Agronomy at Nutrien about mixing liquid fertilizers. They'll get into jar testing, the benefits, possible risks, protecting yourself and your crops and who to go to when you have questions.   To discover the latest crop nutrition research, visit nutrien-eKonomics.com.

    Is Soil Salinity Impacting Your Crops?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2024 42:23


    Host Mike Howell and guests Lyle Cowell and Alan Blaylock, both senior agronomists with Nutrien are getting deep into the details of soil salinity, how salts accumulate in soil and when they can become limiting to plant growth or impede the ability to manage soil properly.   To discover the latest crop nutrition research, visit nutrien-eKonomics.com   To learn more about soil salinity, check out these eKonomics articles:    Soil Salinity in Western Canada: https://nutrien-ekonomics.com/news/soil-salinity-in-western-canada/ Soil Salinity and Sodicity: https://nutrien-ekonomics.com/news/soil-salinity-and-sodicity/ Sodic Soils and Their Management: https://nutrien-ekonomics.com/news/sodic-soils-and-their-management/  

    Talking Turf: Why and How to Fertilize Your Lawn

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2024 30:09


    Join host Mike Howell and guest Eric Miltner as they dive into the specifics of fertilizer for lawns and turf grass. This episode of The Dirt digs into types of grass, regionality, soil testing and more while providing actions you can take today to help you better care for your lawn and other turf grasses.   To discover the latest crop nutrition research visit nutrien-eKonomics.com

    Nitrogen Nitty-Gritty: Preventing Loss, Maximizing Yield

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2024 43:57


    Nitrogen loss is a significant challenge for farmers. Gain valuable insights into the main causes of nitrogen loss and discover practical methods to prevent it. This episode of The Dirt provides actionable tips for farmers to maximize nitrogen inputs and enhance crop yields.   To discover the latest crop nutrition research visit nutrien-eKonomics.com 

    Bridging The Agriculture Perception Divide

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2024 49:45


    Jeff Tarsi joins Mike Howell for the season 3 premiere of The Dirt. To kick-off the season, we're talking about the findings from a new Nutrien study that identifies how farmers and consumers differ on key agricultural issues. For more information on this study, visit https://news.nutrien.com/agperceptions/keyfindings   To discover the latest crop nutrition research visit nutrien-eKonomics.com

    Thanksgiving: A Family Agriculture Affair

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2023 20:36


    Thanksgiving has undeniable ties to agriculture. In this special episode, Mike is joined by his two sons. Together, they discuss the holiday's agronomic history and reflect on some of their own favorite traditions and foods.   To discover the latest crop nutrition research visit nutrien-eKonomics.com

    The Enzymatic Roles Of Copper And Manganese

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2023 14:15


    All nutrients have multiple roles, but a lot of micronutrients have enzymatic roles...and that's the case with both copper and manganese. Lyle Cowell joins the show to explain the roles these two micronutrients play inside the plant.   To discover the latest crop nutrition research visit nutrien-eKonomics.com

    Everything You Need To Know About Potash

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2023 21:13


    When it comes to potash, there's always more to talk about. Dig deeper into sources of potash (red or white?), application timing (fall or spring?), and just how important it is for growers to make sure they are replacing enough of the nutrient that is removed during harvest.   To discover the latest crop nutrition research visit nutrien-eKonomics.com

    Forage+Minerals: A Recipe For Livestock Nutrition

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2023 22:43


    In a perfect world, cattle could get all their nutrients from the plant...but in most situations, those nutrients are missing in our forages. Tune in to this episode of The Dirt with Dr. Daniel Rivera, Director and Associate Professor at the Southwest Research & Extension Center, as he answers the question: "How should a grower go about selecting a good mineral?"   To discover the latest crop nutrition research visit nutrien-eKonomics.com

    Claim The Dirt: an eKonomics podKast

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel