AgroLiquid

Like all oilseed crops, canola relies on adequate and available crop nutrients. Getting the plant up and out of the ground and off to the best possible start builds the foundation for a successful season.

By giving canola plants a good nutritional start, growers are increasing the chances of them thriving even when faced with less than optimal circumstances.

Then – there’s always the weather. A healthy plant with adequate available nutrition will be best prepared to respond to stress factors like bad weather – including drought, excessive rain, or sudden temperature fluctuations. Also, plants with the right nutrition are also better able to resist disease and pest pressure.

Foliar treatments in canola
Currently, there’s more interest in feeding nutrition through foliar treatments in canola. This research trial demonstrates the benefits of providing crop nutrients in season when crop demand is at its peak.

The results clearly indicate that providing a blend of nutrients at this peak demand period results in yield improvements.

Applying a rate of 2 gallons per acre of NResponse, 0.75 gallons per acre of fertiRain, and 0.25 gallons per acre of Micro 600 resulted in a yield of 39.1 bushels per acre. This outcome far outperforms the untreated crop, which yielded only 30.6 bushels per acre. The data shows that this combination of foliar nutrients produced a significant 8.5 bushels per acre advantage over the crop that received no foliar feeding.

The trial also explored other foliar application strategies. A combination of 2 gallons per acre of NResponse and 1 gallon per acre of fertiRain also showed a positive result, achieving a yield of 36.5 bushels per acre. Even a higher rate of NResponse alone, at 3 gallons per acre, resulted in 35.9 bushels per acre. While these inputs also outperformed the untreated crop, the combination of NResponse, fertiRain, and Micro 600 clearly was the most effective approach in this trial.

Planter applications
If there’s one thing we know for sure in farming, it’s that we can’t control the weather. Since the nutritional level of an individual plant can affect its response to stress, poor nutrition could mean the difference between profit and loss. That’s why we have studied the effect of providing crop nutrition in-furrow, streamed on at flowering, and as a foliar application. Because we can’t control the weather, having application options can mean risk mitigation options.

In field trial testing, all of the in-furrow and streaming combinations resulted in significant yield increases over the dry fertilizer alone. This trial demonstrates the value of AgroLiquid in-furrow and streamed-on treatments replacing part of a dry fertilizer program.

This data from the canola trial on planter methods shows a yield advantage with liquid applications. All combinations involving AgroLiquid in-furrow and stream-on treatments resulted in an increase in canola yield compared to the dry band treatment (30.5 bu/A) and the untreated check (26 bu/A). The data shows using liquid fertilizer at planting benefits yield.

The in-furrow applications, particularly the 3 gal/A Pro-Germinator treatment, achieved the highest yield at 35.5 bu/A. The combination of 3 gal/A Pro-Germinator, 2 gal/A Kalibrate, 0.25 gal/A Micro 600 also performed very well, yielding 34.8 bu/A. This shows that placing specific nutrients directly with the seed at planting can be effective in supporting early growth and increasing yield.

The stream-on applications, when liquid fertilizer is applied in a band near the seed row during planting, also had a positive impact on yield. The 8 gal/A NResponse, 1 gal/A Pro-Germinator, 0.5 gal/A Kalibrate, 1 gal/A access treatment yielded 35 bu/A, and the similar combination without access yielded 34.4 bu/A. This shows that applying liquid nutrients near the seed row is another helpful method for improving nutrient availability and uptake during early growth stages.

The trial was designed to show the value of AgroLiquid treatments replacing part of a dry fertilizer program. The yield increases found with the liquid combinations, even when compared to dry fertilizer alone, support the idea that integrating liquid starters can increase nutrient delivery and potentially allow for adjustments in the overall dry fertilizer program.

Overall, this trial shows that incorporating AgroLiquid in-furrow and stream-on liquid fertilizer applications at planting can improve canola yields compared to relying solely on a dry-banded fertilizer program.

Planning for future harvests
These trials show the impact of different nutrient applications, at planting through in-furrow and stream-on methods, and during peak demand periods with foliar treatments at flowering. Supplementing or even partially replacing traditional dry fertilizer programs with liquid nutrient solutions offer growers the benefit of increased yields and better stress tolerance – even giving hope to fighting unpredictable weather.

See more canola research.

AgroLiquid is excited to introduce microLink Iron HPH, designed to help with the issue of Iron Deficiency Chlorosis (IDC) in high pH or alkaline soils. For growers facing the frustration of yellowing leaves and stunted growth due to iron unavailability, microLink Iron HPH is the answer.

IDC causes yield reductions in a variety of crops, though most of the research is focused on soybeans, where there is significant loss. For instance, a U.S. 2019 soybean IDC report resulted in yield losses totaling $260 million annually.

High pH soils often make iron insoluble, preventing crops from absorbing this nutrient. This leads to IDC, which impacts yield and crop quality. In response to this challenge, AgroLiquid developed microLink Iron HPH, a specialized iron nutrient product. With it, iron is delivered in a readily available form, allowing crops to efficiently absorb and use it – even in alkaline conditions.

What sets microLink Iron HPH apart from the rest is Nutriq technology. With AgroLiquid’s Nutriq technology, microLink Iron HPH is highly compatible with other crop nutrients and crop protection products, which allows for flexibility in application.

microLink Iron HPH benefits include:

• Improves iron uptake in high pH soils
High pH soils create an environment where iron readily converts into forms that plants cannot absorb. Our product is designed to deliver iron in a form that remains available, even in high pH soil. Improved iron uptake helps combat IDC, improves chlorophyll production, and helps with overall crop health and yield potential.

• Highly compatible formulation
AgroLiquid’s Nutriq technology allows microLink Iron HPH to work with a wide range of other agricultural inputs. As a result, growers can simplify their tank mixing process, plus have more flexible application options

• Can be applied with other nutrients or crop protection*
Because of the high compatibility, growers can co-applicate with macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) and other micronutrients. Also, growers can apply with other inputs to save time, money, and trips across the field. Note – Due to the your own unique circumstances, always follow label instructions and perform a jar test before mixing or applying any agricultural input product.

Overall, microLink Iron HPH is designed to be a user-friendly solution for producers facing the challenges of iron deficiency in high pH soils.

For a comprehensive look at IDC, download our white paper Iron Deficiency Chlorosis (IDC) in high pH soils: A guide for the high plains and beyond.

Discover why:

• IDC is a complex issue influenced by various factors, including soil pH, carbonate content, crop type, and management practices.
• Successful IDC management requires combining strategies including variety selection, soil amendments, and the use of specialized iron products.
• Growers can reduce the impact of IDC and produce healthy crops even in high pH soils by understanding the causes and using appropriate strategies.

DOWNLOAD IDC WHITE PAPER

Why do we need to look beyond N-P-K when we’re looking for the best for our crops? Let’s consider synergy.

Synergy of crop nutrition is simply nutrients working together. Nutrients can react both positively and negatively with one another, and growers need to understand that having nutrients applied in balance makes them all work better. This, in turn, makes a better plant.

Today, we have an even deeper understanding of plant nutrition. Supporting nutrients, often the secondary and micronutrients, can help the primary nutrients work harder in the plant. For example, sulfur helps the plant metabolize nitrogen. Excess calcium can limit the availability of phosphorus and potassium. But it’s also true of the micronutrients – high manganese levels can make iron less available and supplemental iron may be needed.

This approach saves growers both time and money on applications, plus it increases their return on investment. Ultimately, it helps with more precise nutrient application, preventing over-application and making sure crops receive exactly what they need.

Looking for more than N-P-K

Growers today understand the need for micronutrients better than ever before. They help with photosynthesis, building cell walls, bringing in other nutrients, and setting seeds and fruit on crops. By not looking beyond N-P-K. . . crops will hit a wall for yield and quality.

“Basically, micronutrients break down that wall and help crops reach a higher potential,” said Abe Isaak, AgroLiquid West Region Agronomist.

AgroLiquid Agronomist Stephanie Zelinko agrees, as she points out the important role micronutrients play.

“N-P-K are backbone of most fertility programs, but it’s important not to overlook the secondary and micronutrients,” she said. “Often these are more limiting and can play a larger part in yield response.”

By paying attention to all of the nutrients and micronutrients, growers have the potential of these additional benefits:

Increased yields: Micronutrients and other essential nutrients beyond N-P-K can help with a crop’s full yield potential, pushing past the limitations imposed by solely focusing on primary macronutrients.
Improved crop quality: A balanced nutrient profile, including micronutrients, leads to healthier plants with improved quality characteristics like better flavor, increased nutritional value, and a more attractive appearance.
Better nutrient uptake: A synergistic approach to crop nutrition, where all necessary nutrients are available, improves the plant’s ability to absorb and utilize all nutrients more efficiently, including N-P-K.
Reduced input costs: By understanding nutrient synergy, growers can often achieve better results with smaller, more precise applications of a wider range of nutrients, potentially lowering fertilizer costs.
Increased ROI: Higher yields and improved quality, coupled with potentially reduced input costs, lead to a greater return on the investment made in crop production.
Healthier crops: A complete and balanced nutrient profile strengthens plants, making them more resilient to stress, pests, and disease.
Growth stages: Specific micronutrients play roles in various growth stages, and making sure they are available at the right time helps with plant development.

AgroLiquid dedication to nutrition

AgroLiquid carries a complete line of crop nutrients. AgroLiquid not only focuses on N-P-K, but we also focus on the micronutrients and secondary nutrients.

Our Nutriq technology optimizes plant nutrition uptake. That means activating available nutrients when the time’s right, avoiding unwanted issues by using consistent blends and a uniform manufacturing process, and maximizing your crop’s full potential through nutrient synergy.

“Growers can confidently mix AgroLiquid products and they won’t fall out or tie up with each other,” Isaak said. ”They can also use them in their planters with much less danger of seed or root damage than other fertilizers can cause. I’ve seen all this many times during my time with AgroLiquid, and the has demonstrated this.”

While N-P-K fertilizers have played a role in increasing crop production, focusing solely on these macronutrients can limit a crop’s full potential. As our understanding of plant nutrition changes, it’s clear that synergy – the balanced interaction of all essential nutrients – is helpful for maximizing yields, improving crop quality, and improving nutrient uptake.

By looking beyond N-P-K and incorporating micronutrients and other elements into a comprehensive nutrition plan, growers can increase ROI and reduce input costs. AgroLiquid’s dedication to synergistic nutrition, combined with innovative technologies like Nutriq, offers growers a way to improve crop nutrition strategies and get better results.

Want to talk crops? Contact us today.

AgroLiquid understands growers’ challenges and offers solutions to save time, have fewer headaches, and ultimately be more profitable. We spoke with two of our regional agronomists, John Leif and Reid Abbott, to learn how AgroLiquid products are making a difference for growers.

Lower Rates
One of the biggest advantages of AgroLiquid products, according to John Leif, is lower use rates compared to traditional commodity fertilizers.

“This allows the grower to cover more acres in a tank full of fertilizer and potentially do a better job coordinating refilling seed boxes and fertilizer tanks,” he said. “For example, if a grower is using five gallons per acre of 10-34-0 at planting, Pro-Germinator will provide comparable nutritional performance with two gallons per acre, allowing the grower to cover over two times the number of acres with one tankful of Pro-Germinator.”

Leif explained that lower use rates for AgroLiquid products will often lead to lower cost per acre for fertilizer inputs, as many AgroLiquid products have similar cost per acre as compared to commodity fertilizers.

“Using the example of five gallons/acre of 10-34-0 compared to two gallons of Pro-Germinator, the cost per acre is lower with Pro-Germinator using current average retail prices,” he said.

In addition, AgroLiquid nutrients mix well together. Most mixes come directly from the manufacturing facility, so there is no need to measure and mix multiple products in the field.

“Of course, this is a time and headache saving as well,” Leif added.

Save Time
In his work, Reid Abbot has seen growers able to reduce or eliminate a dry application. Instead of fall or early spring spreading and incorporation, they can apply nutrients with their planter, saving significant time. Rate reductions are also common.

“Growers already using planter-applied products can often decrease their program from 20-30 gallons to 10-15 gallons,” he said. “This reduces the amount of product needed, the frequency of refills, and the number of trucks on the farm, allowing them to cover more acres. It saves time, handling, and resources.”

Abbot said that sometimes getting growers to believe in these reductions can be a challenge, as many have followed programs without considering soil tests or carryover nutrients.

“This can lead to over-application of nitrogen or phosphorus,” he said. “Soil testing can show what they really need or don’t need, allowing them to save money and reallocate it to secondary or micronutrients, or other areas of their operation.

Know Your Ground
Abbott suggests that growers don’t just hit the easy button with soil fertility.

“Take soil samples and avoid complacency,” he said. “For large operations, with so many decisions to make, it’s tempting to handle fertilization with a dry spread application. But this prioritizes economy of scale over individual acre needs and leaves potential yield on the table.”

Treating each acre independently, understanding not just the nutrients but also their balance, and matching application methods to specific needs is helpful for the yield.

“Adopting best practices will make a significant difference in a grower’s final yield,” Abbott said, “and AgroLiquid can help.”

Leif points to a crop nutrition plan to help growers achieve their best yields.

“Developing a thorough crop nutrition plan that accounts for crops, yield goals, and soil nutrient levels will provide the best opportunity for a successful growing season,” he said. “A grower can customize AgroLiquid products and use rates to meet their goals.”

Summing it up

AgroLiquid helps you save time:

Lower application rates mean fewer refills and more acres covered per tank
Eliminating dry fertilizer applications saves time on spreading and incorporation
Pre-mixed nutrients reduce time spent measuring and mixing in the field
Reduced number of trucks on the farm streamlines operations

Save headaches:

Pre-mixed nutrients simplify fertilizer management
Lower application rates can ease coordination of seed and fertilizer refills
Reduced field operations mean fewer things to manage
Soil testing and tailored nutrition plans reduce guesswork and potential over-application

and save money:

Lower use rates often translate to lower cost per acre compared to traditional fertilizers
Eliminating unnecessary dry fertilizer applications saves on product and application costs
Specific nutrient application prevents over-spending on fertilizer
Reallocating savings to secondary or micronutrients or other areas of the operation maximizes ROI
Increased yields through tailored nutrition plans contribute to greater profitability

So many advantages! They range from lower application rates and costs savings to better mixing and reduced field work – and so many in between. With soil testing, crop nutrition plans, and a focus on individual acre needs, growers can get the best yield with the least expense. Ready to get started? We’d love to work with you on your growing needs – contact your AgroLiquid rep today.

Finding Balance: 5 Expert Insights from Crop Nutrition Week 2025

In an era of rising input costs and tight margins, balancing yield potential and profitability has never been more crucial. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to crop nutrition, but there are strategies every grower can use to optimize their nutrient investments.

During Crop Nutrition Week 2025, growers and agronomy experts came together to discuss data-driven strategies for building stronger returns on their fertility investments. Here are the top five insights shaping their upcoming growing seasons:

Maximize ROI, not just yield.

Yield has long been the measure of a successful growing season, but maximum yield doesn’t always equal maximum profit.

“As you push yield higher, you’ll likely need to apply more fertilizer,” says Galynn Beer, sales strategy lead for AgroLiquid. “That increases your risk and adds costs you may not recoup at harvest.”

Beer says it’s better to pull back on yield before you hit diminishing returns. In his experience, aiming for about 95% of maximum yield significantly reduces inputs and still ends up being the most profitable approach.

Time nutrient applications to optimize efficiency.

Temple Rhodes, an XtremeAg grower in Maryland, uses in-season applications to manage his budget and reduce nutrient loss and fixing that can come with front-loading.

“60-70% of phosphorus is needed during the reproductive stage,” he notes. “The fertility never really changes. I’m just reallocating it.”

Rhodes says spoon-feeding his crops with foliar applications also allows him to remain flexible and respond to weather variables that impact his crop.

Manage nutrient interactions.

Nutrients in the soil interact in ways that can enhance or inhibit their availability to the crop.

“Just like a magnet, positives and negatives can get fixed together,” explains Stephanie Zelinko, national agronomist for AgroLiquid. “Keeping your calcium base saturation between 60-75% and being mindful of how phosphorus can displace other nutrients like zinc, iron, manganese and copper will help improve efficiency and uptake.”

Timing and application methods can help avoid negative interactions.

Cut with precision.

When input prices are high it may be tempting to protect your bottom line with broad cuts to your crop nutrition budget. Instead, Zelinko encourages growers to look at the big picture.

“Everybody does a good job of putting their nitrogen out, but you might be overapplying,” says Zelinko. “Reallocating some of your fertilizer budget to address limiting factors in your micronutrients can have significant ROI,” says Zelinko. “

Plan to be flexible.

While we emphasize planning for the upcoming season, we also have to account for variables like weather and market prices that are out of our control. Building flexibility into your crop nutrition program with alternative delivery methods and split applications can help you adapt to changing growing conditions.

“If you’ve been broadcasting urea all your life, consider a liquid application, spoon-fed throughout the season,” suggests Reid Abbott, AgroLiquid agronomist. “You may be able to cut back total pounds and still be more efficient with what you are applying.”

Looking for more expert insights from Crop Nutrition Week 2025?

Visit cropnutritionweek.com and register to gain access to this year’s full content, along with our archives and other resources. You can also follow us on Facebook for crop nutrition advice all year long.

Some nutrients take the spotlight easily, as they’re front and center. Some are supporting roles, but that doesn’t mean they’re not as important. With that in mind, let’s look closely at Micro 500.

Micro 500 contains the micronutrients zinc, manganese, iron, copper, and boron. Perhaps most importantly, this liquid micronutrient fertilizer covers multiple micronutrient requirements. It helps prevent deficiencies, supports protein synthesis and enzyme production, improves nitrogen fixation, lignin formation, and supports strong cell growth.

Of course, zinc, manganese, iron, copper and boron are all important micronutrients. For example, chlorophyll production can’t function without micronutrients, since it requires a complex combination of enzymes and proteins to work. Plus, copper, manganese, zinc, and iron all play a role in photosynthesis and chlorophyll synthesis. Last but not least, boron is important plant cell membrane development, and plant cells can weaken without boron being available.

Micro 500 contains:

Zinc
Zinc is a micronutrient that is essential for plant growth and development. It is involved in a wide range of processes, including enzyme activation, growth regulation, stress tolerance, and disease resistance.
Manganese
Manganese helps with chlorophyll production and oxygen evolution. It also activates various enzymes involved in plant growth, including the ones responsible for nitrogen metabolism and root development.
Iron
Iron is important for chlorophyll synthesis, which helps with photosynthesis and energy production. It also plays a role in various enzyme functions and electron transport within the plant.
Copper
Copper is needed for various plant processes, including photosynthesis and respiration, contributing to healthy development. It also helps with the formation of lignin, which strengthens cell walls and improves disease resistance in crops.
Boron
Boron helps with cell wall formation, pollen germination, and seed development, so crops can be healthier. It also assists with nutrient uptake and sugar transport, contributing to overall yield.

Just think…all of these amazing properties contained in one product. Of course we’re highlighting it!

Easy application
Not only does Micro 500 hit all these nutrient needs, but it’s also designed to be easy to apply. It’s made to be safe to use with many other nutrition and crop protection products, so you don’t have to make an extra trip over the field.

Plus, with a variety of application methods available, it’s easy to find the most efficient way to reach your crop. If you think micronutrient deficiencies are stunting your crop or tree growth, or your soil simply isn’t supplying enough micronutrients for optimal growth, Micro 500 helps you solve this issue faster.

You can choose based on the crop, soil conditions, and the specific needs of the your crop. It is compatible with many other fertilizers and crop protection products, making it easy to incorporate into your existing crop management practices.

Application choices

Let’s consider some options.

As a soil application: Micro 500 be applied directly to the soil, either before planting or during the growing season. This can be done through broadcast spreading, banding, or in-furrow application.

As a foliar spray: It can be mixed with water and applied directly to the leaves of the plant. This is a quick way to address micronutrient deficiencies.

Through fertigation: Micro 500 can be added to irrigation water and applied to crops through drip irrigation systems or other fertigation methods.

The team at AgroLiquid can help growers understand soil test reports and walk through key areas where fertilizer dollars should be focused to balance yield and economics. This knowledge of soil fertility is backed by years of research from our North Central Research Station along with numerous field trials from across the country. Data is compiled to develop a win-rate, where measurements of both wins and losses are used to determine the likelihood of achieving a positive response from a fertility program. Then economics can be applied to help growers recognize the return a fertilizer investment has on profitability.

Why Micro 500?

When you’re planning for planting…consider Micro 500. The combination of nutrients and the ease of application can make it the star of next season’s show.

For more information, visit:

Get ready, get set, get micronutrients

Why Micro 500

Key to crop potential

You can have it all

It’s time to plan! You’re considering your crop type, growth stages, soil conditions – and how best to work with everything. Of course potassium contributes to everything from disease resistance to water regulation. But what do you need?

AgroLiquid offers four potassium products. What’s the difference between them, and what’s right for your crop strategy? Let’s break it down.

Kalibrate

Potassium + sulfur

We’ll start with Kalibrate®. Kalibrate is a potassium fertilizer with added sulfur. It’s also chloride- and hydroxide-free, which means it also provides nourishment to plants and trees without harming the long-term health of the soil.

Kalibrate helps plants access potassium and sulfur from seedling to harvest. It can be used by itself to provide plants with an extra source of potassium and sulfur, or it can be used in combination with other AgroLiquid products to provide a complete fertilizer program.

Kalibrate is designed to be easy to use and apply, so growers can give crops and trees what they need without expending lots of extra time and money. Just what everyone wants!

See how Kalibrate performed in our field tests.

Kapitalize

Potassium + sulfur + calcium

Next up is Kapitalize™. Kapitalize is designed to be foliar applied during the reproductive growth stages. Adding calcium and sulfur to the potassium foliar fertilizer makes the nutrients more available.

Tank mixing conventional calcium products can cause issues, and calcium is very reactive. Kapitalize is designed to be combined and immediately applied with other AgroLiquid products, including phosphorus.

Like all our products, Kapitalize is manufactured with the highest quality raw materials. (You can Kapitalize on that!)

Check out our latest studies on Kapitalize.

PrimAgro® K

Potassium + nitrogen + sulfur biofertilizer

PrimAgro K is a potash biofertilizer combining potash with soil-conditioning biologicals. This not only provides nitrogen, potassium and sulfur, but it also improves nutrient retention and utilization year over year.

PrimAgro K helps make nutrients more mobile and available for plants to use. This helps row crops requiring regular replenishment of nutrients. With PrimAgro K, these nutrients will be available to crops longer, and there is less environmental loss.

See our PrimAgro research.

Sure-K

Potassium + nitrogen + phosphate

Sure-K® is a liquid potassium that gives plants the nutrients they need during reproductive stages. The Sure-K formula provides increased use at lower concentrations. Using Sure-K has provided the same or better results than standard potassium fertilizers – while using less product!

Sure-K allows plants to better process sugars, which helps produce larger, higher quality yields, while also making the crops better able to resist stressors. Plus, Sure-K uses no chlorides or hydroxides.

See our latest Sure-K studies.

Choices

For comprehensive soil health and long-term benefits, PrimAgro is a great choice. If you’re focusing on foliar, Kapitalize delivers targeted nutrition you may need. If you’re looking for a cost-effective and versatile product, Kalibrate may work for you. And when efficiency is a main focus, Sure-K offers a concentrated option.

No matter your needs, AgroLiquid has a potassium solution for you. If you want any more assistance in differentiating between products, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re always happy to talk strategy.

The weather varied around the country, with some growers having near-ideal conditions, with others dealing with extreme challenges. AgroLiquid agronomists Abe Isaak and Stephanie Zelinko shared their experiences with the growing season, answering the question – what did we learn in 2024?

Nuts in the West
For some regions, it was heat and more heat. For instance, the long-term heat California experienced had its good and bad impacts on crops. Of course, we need heat units for most crops to produce at optimum yields, and we irrigate with more water to counter the stress. Fortunately, we had a wet winter and in most areas of the state, the water was adequate. Almonds and walnuts had to deal with low market prices for most of the year until early fall when we started to see an uptick in prices.

Growers cut inputs to increase profit, and sometimes that means the fertilizer budget is reduced when prices get low, like they did in spring 2024. What’s the impact of cutting nutrition on the trees, and how much did it affect yields and quality of nuts?

“Yields are down in some places 20% to 30% in almonds, and walnuts up to 40%,” said Abe Isaak, West region sales agronomist. “I’ve talked with a lot of PCAs [Pest Control Advisers] and asked them what happened to the yield on nuts this year, and heat is the number one answer. But – we’ve had years in the past with heat, and the yield loss wasn’t as bad as it was this year.”

As a result, there’s an impact to cutting nutrition. The number one input growers use is nitrogen, so what’s usually cut first is potassium, phosphorus, and micronutrients. Yet when the heat hits hard and the tree is starting out with moderate to low levels of potassium, the tree calls for it from the soil – and it’s not there to help deal with the heat.

As a result, the tree will try to pull the next best thing – sodium. If you have high sodium instead of potassium, the plant builds cell walls using sodium instead of potassium. When the heat comes, pressure builds in the cells, they explode, and you get leaf burn and leaf death. The tree will then look tired, so you irrigate, and you may even give it more nitrogen (N). But, by the time August rolls around we see a lot of tired, defoliating trees.

Yield loss follows, since the tree can’t sustain the crop. As a result, it drops nuts to find a balance, and the remaining nuts are smaller and drier at harvest than normal.

“When running the numbers and you have a 2500 lbs. crop normally, and you lose 20%, that means 500 lbs. is gone,” Abe said. “Even at $1.30 that’s still a lot of money and pays for your potassium, phosphorus, micronutrients, and some calcium as well.”

This was AgroLiquid’s seventh year doing replicated trials on almonds in Newman, CA. The average for both NP and independent varieties is 2900 lbs. In 2024, we grew only the independent variety, which resulted in over 2900 lbs. per acre.

“We fed the trees according to what they needed, and got yield and quality ROIs that more than justified the inputs,” Abe said. “So, what did we learn in 2024? Heat will reduce the yield and quality, but heat compounded with shorting the nutrition kicks the butt of yield and quality even more. You can’t afford to save nickels and dimes when it is costing you dollars of unrealized income.”

New in 2025
We see some light at the end of the tunnel for almonds and walnuts, so perhaps this means we can return to better input levels and return to better yields. The 2025 crop year started in June of 2024, and the first big fertilization is post-harvest this fall. Fall is not the time for a lot of nitrogen, as much as phosphorus, and potassium, and micronutrients. The tree stores carbohydrates for the spring in the fall. If you put a tree to bed tired without a good meal, it will wake up hungry and stay that way till after the crop is set. The tree uses stored energy in the spring that it got in the previous fall.

“This is vital to getting things back on track and dealing with tree stress from this summer’s heat, and this will be vital for dealing with next year’s high heat,” Abe said. “If you’re short next year, you will see dramatic difference in tree health – and most importantly in your pocket.”

Abe recommends to growers that they hit post-harvest well, adjust in the spring and summer, take soil samples, and use them to develop a well thought-out program, as well as working with professional who can help interpret the samples results.

“I believe better days are coming to the nut industry, so let’s position ourselves to participate and maximize our returns,” Abe said.

Budget considerations
We have been in the low market situation for a few seasons now, and as the length continues, growers need to be more aware of their budget to make sure they have enough return to cover those expenses.

“One low market year you may still be able to get away with spending more, but as those years start to stack up budgets become more important,” said Stephanie Zelinko, sales agronomist.

Knowing your fertilizer budget is the best way, especially in these lower market times, to make sure growers are spending dollars on the nutrients that are giving the best return on investment. With this year’s lower markets AgroLiquid experts looked at building fertilizer programs to fit them.

“We found a current soil test and working with product win-rates was the best way to build a fertilizer program,” said Stephanie.

Starting off in 2025, we’re beginning with another year of low commodity prices, and it’s helpful for growers to spend based on potential income.

“Another concern is the change in weather patterns,” she said. “Many parts of the country are ending with lower than normal moisture, and a some have above-normal moisture. With most soil testing being done in the fall, growers need to be aware those results may be altered about if the soil moisture conditions are strongly different than in the past.”

Looking ahead
What did we learn? A balanced and responsive nutrient program can mitigate losses and deliver a strong ROI, even in the face of weather challenges. Looking ahead to 2025, it’s important to prioritize post-harvest nutrition to replenish depleted crops and prepare them for the upcoming season.

By combining soil testing, expert advice, and strategic nutrient management, growers can position themselves for success and capitalize on the potential market improvements. Despite economic difficulties, creating nutrient programs based on individual needs and potential income will be important for navigating these volatile times and maximizing returns.

For details on AgroLiquid’s trials, visit our research page.

When you think about potassium (K), what comes to mind? Root growth? Photosynthesis? Resistance?

Of course – potassium helps with all of these crop issues. In general, potassium helps improve yields and quality. Specifically, as the second most-consumed nutrient, potassium is important for many plant functions – from photosynthesis and nutrient transport to water regulation and disease resistance.

At AgroLiquid, we understand the role potassium plays in crop nutrition, and we offer fertilizer designed to meet these needs.

Why potassium matters
Potassium contributes to several plant processes, including:

Photosynthesis: Potassium regulates the stomata, the pores on leaves that control gas exchange and water loss. Better regulation improves efficiency.
Nutrient transport: It helps transport nutrients and sugars through the plant for healthy growth and development.
Water: Potassium helps plants manage water intake.
Disease: The right potassium levels strengthen plant cell walls, making crops more disease and pest resistant.

AgroLiquid’s liquid potassium fertilizers are chloride- and hydroxide-free, making them a great choice for your crops and soil. First, this lessens the risk of crop injury often associated with traditional potassium fertilizers. It also promotes long-term soil health. It can be applied many ways, including broadcast, top dress, sidedress, foliar, and fertigation. AgroLiquid can also be used in conjunction with many other crop protection products.

Three forms of potassium exist in the soil – unavailable, slowly available or fixed, and readily available or exchangeable. Depending on the soil, much of the total potassium in the soil is unavailable, and plants can’t use it in this form. For slowly available or fixed, the potassium is trapped between layers of clay minerals. Meanwhile, readily available potassium is the form of it that is measured by soil tests.

AgroLiquid potassium options
To help crops, we offer potassium products designed for specific needs and growing conditions.

Sure-K
A potassium fertilizer designed to encourage growth at key reproductive stages. Its formulation promotes efficient sugar processing in plants, leading to larger, higher-quality yields.
• Provides sustained potassium nutrients at key reproductive stages
• Stimulates growth of fruit, seeds, and tubers
• Chloride- and hydroxide-free
• Lower concentrations with excellent results
• Flexible application reduces manpower required

Kalibrate
This fertilizer combines potassium with nitrogen and sulfur to support early-season growth. Kalibrate is formulated to resist freezing, making it good for cold climates and early- or late-season use.
• Supports early-season delivery
• Resistant to freezing
• Easy to use with other nutrients and crop protection products
• Chloride- and hydroxide-free to protect from salt toxicity
• Adds crop-available sulfur as well as nitrogen and potassium
• Multiple application methods
• Suitable for corn, soybeans, sugarbeets, wheat, and other row crops

Kapitalize
Kapitalize is a potassium solution with added calcium and sulfur, and it’s designed for foliar application during reproductive stages. It promotes strong plant cell growth and improves resistance to stress, drought, and disease.

• Can be foliar applied with little risk of tissue damage
• Provides needed nutrition when the plant needs it – during the development of seeds or fruits
• Promotes strong plant cell growth
• Improves resistance to stress, drought and disease
• Easy to apply with other crop nutrients

PrimAgro K
This product provides potassium, nitrogen, and sulfur and also renews the natural potassium processing cycle in the soil by restoring beneficial microbes. These microbes decompose organic matter, releasing potassium and making it more accessible to plants.

• Provides essential nitrogen, potassium and sulfur
• Restores beneficial soil bacteria
• Allows the soil to naturally retain plant-usable nutrients
• Improves soil health and longevity
• Balances nutrient profile in soil

At AgroLiquid, our potassium products are backed by years of research and development.
Our commitment includes scientifically-proven formulations based on research and field testing. Plus, we work with various growing conditions and crop requirements. We offer personalized guidance from our team of experienced agronomists, and we can work with your existing programs.

Whatever you’re thinking about potassium – it’s part of today’s path to successful crop production.
Contact AgroLiquid today to discuss this food for thought.

Equal rights, equal portions, all things being equal…these are all positives. But in agriculture, things aren’t equal when it comes to phosphorus.

Why? Pro-Germinator uses phosphate, nitrogen, potash, and iron in a blended formula to help with crop response at important growth stages. Combining quick-release phosphates with slow-release polymer phosphates promotes growth early on – plus helps crops continue thriving through reproductive stages.

Pro-Germinator’s phosphates are protected by Nutriq technology, which makes sustained nutrient extraction possible throughout the plant’s growth. Pro-Germinator contains both ortho-phosphate and carbon-protected polymer phosphate to provide readily available and controlled-release phosphorus with little risk of tie-up in the soil.

Let’s look at five ways Pro-Germinator stands above other phosphorus options.

1. It’s dual action: Pro-Germinator combines ortho-phosphate for immediate availability and carbon-protected polymer phosphate for sustained use. This helps with both quick germination and long-term root development, unlike many products that offer only quick-release phosphorus. By providing both immediate and sustained phosphorus, Pro-Germinator makes sure crops have the resources they need at every stage of development. This leads to healthier plants, stronger root systems, and improved overall growth.

2. It makes more nutrient uptake possible: Research shows Pro-Germinator leads to more plant-usable phosphorus in the soil compared to other fertilizers. This efficiency means more nutrients reach your crops, which eventually leads to By enhancing nutrient uptake, Pro-Germinator ensures your crops receive the maximum better plants and higher yields.

3. It gives you increased yield potential: Multi-year studies demonstrate that Pro-Germinator consistently delivers higher yields in corn (averaging 5 bushels per acre more than conventional fertilizers).

4. It helps with better tolerance: Pro-Germinator’s positive effect on root development improves a plant’s ability to withstand drought conditions, which many traditional fertilizers can’t promise. This is a clear advantage for current weather patterns.

5. It has flexible application options: Pro-Germinator can be applied in-furrow, 2×2, or as a foliar spray, to match your specific needs and equipment. Multiple options are not always found with other phosphorus products.

Product benefits
• Stimulates early growth – Always helpful for getting started
• Provides steady source of essential nutrients – Plants need nutrition throughout the growing season
• Reduced risk of leaf burn – Less insult and injury to plants!
• Flexible application methods to reduce manpower required – Take your pick on application.
• Can be applied with other nutrients, pesticides, or fungicides

Research results
Don’t just take our word for it. Check out our research studies using Pro-Germinator.

Corn fertilizer program – This corn trial was established looking at two different comparisons:
First, a comparison of planter fertilizer program was made comparing 3 gal/A Pro-Germinator to 2
gal/A Pro-Germinator + 1 gal/A Spring-uP. Second, a comparison between UAN and UAN with an experimental form our eNhance, eN-22.

3-year in furrow – The objective of this study was to evaluate common phosphorus sources for effect on yield when applied in-furrow at planting as a pop up fertilizer.

Pro-Germinator saves application costs – In this research, we compared Pro-Germinator to the grower standard of phosphorous.

AgroLiquid vs Grower Standards – To compare the grower standard to AgroLiquid’s Pro-Germinator in production of Idaho potatoes and to determine if yield could be increased using less gallons compared to the grower standard.

Give it a try
By trying Pro-Germinator, you’re investing in the future of your crops. This fertilizer delivers the nutrients your crops need to achieve their full yield potential, year after year.

Ready to learn more about how Pro-Germinator can benefit you? Contact your AgroLiquid rep today.