For some no-tillers, it’s a normal routine: a blanket-rate application of lime goes on and 4 years later the process is repeated.

Foliar feeding corn and soybeans remains a controversial subject in some corners of agriculture, but not to an increasing number of farmers who are using the practice to fine-tune fertilization strategies to maximize yields.

Shifting from conventional tillage to no-till often requires a lot of physical change in your operation. Just as importantly, adopting this new way of farming demands a strong dose of faith during a transition period that might take several years. I like to joke it’s the same kind of devotion it takes to make a good marriage work.

Five years ago, Nick and Luke Miller returned to Miller Farms near Oconomowoc, Wis., bringing with them a passion for change that works well with the no-till tradition their father, Bob, began 16 years ago.

With a proper combination of soil moisture, pH, microbial activity and total nutrient supplies, many no-tillers need less fertilizer.