Corn and soybean take up relatively large amounts of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), and much of this P and K ends up in the grain that is taken off the field during harvest. In order to keep soil nutrient levels from dropping over time, the amounts removed need to be replaced by applying fertilizer or manure. In order to know how much nutrient a crop removes, we need to know how much there is in a bushel of harvested grain.

Productive agriculture depends on healthy soil. Soil guarantees that nutrients are made available in sufficient amounts during a plant’s life cycle and it holds water that is then available to plants. It also provides many critical ecosystem functions that are necessary for life. In this free publication from Penn State University, you’ll learn how you can protect this valuable resource through no-till.

Did you know that one in five of all known life forms on earth is a beetle? From the Tiny feather-winged beetles to the giant Titan beetle, beetles are found on every continent and have adapted to every terrestrial and fresh water ecosystem.

When salts are present at normal levels, they help to stabilize soil particles, buffer soil pH and serve as a source of soil nutrients, according to South Dakota State University Extension.

Harvest delays caused by the onslaught of wet and unusually cold October weather are adding another stress to this year's predicted near record no-till corn crop.