How to Efficiently Use Input Dollars in 2023
The combine is parked and cleaned up and the corn head is back on the trailer. Fall 2022 has a big check mark next to it. As growers, we know you are starting to plan for the crop you will be producing in 2023 while 2022’s crop is still in the ground. When finishing books for the year, we often ask ourselves how we can make our farming operations more efficient. How can I continue to increase my yields and profit each year?
Input dollars continue to be a pain point for many producers. The grain market has remained strong through the fall, but at the end of the day, even when the markets are high, we need to take a closer look at how efficient we are with our input dollars. Here are a few suggestions for more impact with less investment in the next year.
1. Start Small
Our first suggestion is to look at low-hanging fruit. What is a simple change that would provide meaningful, maintainable impacts? For us, the answer is clear. An application of BW-Meltdown is proven to bring a positive ROI in its first season. Many growers apply Meltdown in the fall, but if that time has passed, or if you are already seeing snow on the ground, you have another option. Spring Meltdown application is also effective.
2. Sample Your Fields
When planning for 2023, we believe the best way to increase your efficiency and effectiveness is to put both soil and tissue sampling on the to-do list. It is important to complete both tests to see accurate nutritional data and identify discrepancies between the soil and the plant. Tissue sampling allows you to answer a variety of questions and be able to make more informed, profitable decisions. A sampling program like Agronomy 365, will take a deeper dive into your results and create a plan to move forward. When inputs and land prices are high, soil and tissue sampling will pay for itself. Once we understand the biology, microbial development and rhizosphere activity and capabilities, answers to questions like, “Am I being effective and efficient?” come easy, along with in-season needs and planning.
3. Try New Things
If you are new to biologicals, we suggest trying different things to see what works for you and your fields. We can show you all the data on how our biologicals work and perform in the field, but we know you want to see the proof for yourself. We support growers who want to test one or two products on their farms before jumping in with both feet.
Being more efficient is not something that will happen overnight, but if you make it a priority, you will notice the difference in your yields and in your pocketbook. Try new things and talk to researchers and agronomy experts who can help you maximize your input dollar efficiency. Our team is here to help. Give us a call as you are thinking through 2023 and we can create a game plan together.