Fred Nichols, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer at Huma®, shared his perspective in a recent article on micronutrient technology, published in CropLife. In the article, Fred discusses how advancements in micronutrient formulations are meeting increased demand, improving nutrient availability, and enhancing crop performance. Below are the key topics along with Fred’s insights.
- What were your expectations for micronutrients in 2024 and were they met?
Every farmer in America is looking to optimize nutrient use efficiency, especially for this upcoming year. And it all comes back to the 4 Rs. How and when a crop input is applied is just as important as what is applied. The same goes for micronutrients. As growers continue to fine-tune their programs, opportunities will continue to emerge for micronutrients.
- What factors influenced how the micronutrient segment faired this year?
Given today’s economic landscape, is ROI enough? Farming is both a capital-intensive and cash-flow-challenging business. Products are now competing for shares of wallet. In many cases, if a new product is allowed on the farm, an existing product must be removed or reduced. Farmers are taking an enterprise approach when evaluating what products they’ll purchase. Versatility will play an even greater role. Micronutrients are no exception. For example, if you can offer a micronutrient package that delivers a biostimulant effect on crops, you can provide greater utility by delivering an additional yield bump. That’s what our humate-based micronutrient products offer.
- How has the role of micronutrients changed over the past couple of years?
More universal appeal over a greater range of crops. Not too long ago, adding micronutrients to soybeans was almost unheard of. Guided by tissue sampling, more soybean fields are now spoon-fed throughout the season. The growers breaking yield barriers are doing so with time-sensitive, balanced nutritional programs, where micronutrients play a big part.
- How has science/technology behind micronutrients changed over the past several years?
Delivering nutrients through the leaves has traditionally been a challenge for many growers. That’s where carbon-based products can play a key role. Our Micro Carbon Technology, developed from humates, penetrates leaves quickly and delivers micronutrients to the crop in less than one hour. This not only aids with timing and optimizes nutrient investment, but it provides rain-fast assurance.
- What trends are currently driving the micronutrient marketplace?
The 4 Rs may not sound trendy, but they remain the primary drivers. Timing is critical when it comes to micronutrients. Too often, where we see dissatisfaction, it’s due to missing the optimum application windows. Have a plan for how you want to influence your crop. Micronutrients play a big role in getting you there. Then be dedicated to careful scouting. There are new technologies and tools that allow you to discover and respond to crop needs in near real-time. And product formulations, such as Micro Carbon Technology, deliver micronutrients to the plant within one hour.
- What are the biggest challenges to growing the micronutrient market?
Changing mindsets from being nice-to-haves to must-haves. As Mr. Miyagi famously said, “It’s all about balance.” Total crop health relies on many factors, practices and products. Micronutrients, while small in nature, are a big part of the equation.
- What are the biggest opportunities for the micronutrient market?
Tissue and sap sampling are excellent tools for exposing micronutrient deficiencies. As more growers adopt these practices, they will shed light on opportunities to improve plant health and yield.
- What are your expectations for the 2025 season?
Challenging economic conditions can help open minds to new practices and products. The regenerative ag movement and the dramatic focus towards improving soil biology and soil health will impact the future of all crop inputs, including the micronutrient marketplace. No longer are farmers trapped in the reactive phase of their crop production. Progressive farmers are feeding their soil biology which in turn feeds their crops. The big focus on preventing hidden crop hunger and yield drag has come full circle to help drive the micronutrient market.
- What else do our readers need to know about the micronutrient market?
Micronutrients are not a one-size-fits-all approach. Programs for micros can be customized just like any other crop input. For example, foliar sprays are often viewed as the preferred application method of micros, and for good reason. However, at-planting applications should also be considered. In our testing this year, we’ve observed an excellent crop stand, outstanding emergence and germination percentages, and a stronger vigor by using micronutrients at planting.
To read more about how industry experts are addressing these challenges and opportunities in micronutrient technology, check out the full CropLife article here.
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