While the cost of applying fungicides is known, their application introduces two uncertainties: 1) the yield response from using fungicides, and 2) the additional drying cost associated with higher moisture due to fungicide use.

Soils act as vast reservoirs for the Earth's carbon, and even a minor alteration in the soil's carbon content can have a profound effect on the stability of our atmosphere. Scientists have recently recognized the substantial carbon storage capacity within soil fungal networks, particularly the mycorrhizal mycelial network. Up to 36% of annual global carbon emissions are stored within this network.

Lebanon, Pa., no-tiller Darren Grumbine discusses some of the nutritional challenges he’s faced no-tilling corn and the new approach he took this year feeding nutrients to the crop when they’re needed using tissue tests and on-farm trials.

Elwood, Ind., no-tiller Rick Williams discusses his transition to twin-row, no-till corn with in-furrow fertilizer, timing strategies for multi-stage fungicide application and the value of farm trials on his 650-acre corn and soybean operation.