Don’t ignore trace elements

WHILE the "big three" nutrients have long been the focus of fertilisers, growers looking to improve their crops need to consider the broader range of plant needs. That's part of the advice coming from one of the leading fertiliser providers, Yara Australia.

For Yara Australia sales agronomist, Jason Brady, Western Australia, it's about wider considerations.

"The focus on nutrition has always been on the three major nutrients (NPK) where as the complete range of nutrients needs to be considered to maximise yield," Mr Brady said.

Mr Brady is based in Bindoon, Western Australia, covering the entire state. It's a position that gives him plenty of insight to the needs of various cropping production. His crop portfolio covers cereals, canola, vegetables, olives, grapes and potatoes.

Maintaining and improving plant health goes beyond simply applying nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. "Micronutrients are sometimes forgotten," Mr Brady said.

"The foliar application of trace elements is often used to correct deficiencies instead of part of a balanced nutritional program." Mr Brady said manganese is involved in the function of many enzymes such as the detoxification and water splitting enzymes which provide the oxygen to form carbohydrates.

Manganese deficiency reduces chlorophyll content and lignin synthesis. “A decrease in lignin may be why manganese deficient plants have lower resistance to root pathogens," he said.

Yara supplies a complete range of foliar trace elements, from single nutrients to combination products.

Mr Brady said YaraVita Mantrac Pro was an excellent product when looking at manganese, in both cereals and lupins. Mantrac Pro is best applied from the two leaf until the second node. However, better results are obtained with earlier applications, according to Mr Brady.

"YaraVita Gramitrel is an ideal combination product that supplies copper, zinc and manganese," he said.

The compatibility of YaraVita products and their extended nutrient release patterns allows simply, effective programs to be implemented by growers. Utilising current boomspray passes, adequate micronutrients can be delivered during key development timings to drive grain yield potential.

Like many, Mr Brady is keeping an eye on the season with the hopes of good growing conditions in the coming months. "This year has seen a reasonable start in many areas, some better than others, with above average rainfall forecast for winter, there is some confidence in the market," Mr Brady said.

Yara has more than 20 years business experience in Australia supporting both broadacre and horticulture farmers and greenhouse growers.