Question:

Hey Dr. Jordan, my soil samples are calling for phosphorus on most of my peanut fields. Just one example is a sample that came back with 44 lbs/A soil phosphorus which is a rating of High minus for VT’s index but it is still calling for 40 lbs per acre of P205. With the current phosphorus prices how would you handle this scenario? I was thinking this may be the year to let the borderline fields go without fertilizing.

Jordan:

I understand the challenge with prices. My view has always been that if soil tests call for a nutrient or lime to address acidity, the reason they are recommended is because there would be a positive response in terms of yield to the investment. Of course, not every price scenario is considered, and we are in a tough spot with low contracts and high costs of inputs. It is hard for me to ignore what a soil test calls for. But, letting the borderline fields go is reasonable, but I adhere to the recommendations from soil testing almost all the time. However, the fields that are clearly deficient need to be addressed. Sorry for a vague answer.

Follow Up:

I didn’t know if the 40 lbs it is calling for was a rate to maintain P levels or if that is the rate needed to maximize yield, if it was just to maintain current levels I was considering cutting it this year

Jordan:

I suspect that rate is for maintenance. At some point there will be a need to catch back up, but with prices, this is a reasonable time to step back from maintenance.