Two Years of Cost Pressures Push Farm Focus to Nutrient Efficiency

Fertilizer costs are squeezing farm budgets across the region.

Dr. Chad Godsey, a farmer and the chief agronomist for Green Evolution Technologies, joined the Market Day Report to explain why growers are prioritizing nutrient-use efficiency. He noted that rising input prices and shifting weather patterns have forced producers to extract more value from every application. This shift aims to protect crop performance while controlling expenses.

Weather volatility has complicated nutrient management in recent seasons. Godsey pointed to parts of the Corn Belt where extended dry spells were followed by heavy rainfall. These conditions create difficult scenarios for managing crop nutrients. He explained that soil type and moisture levels directly influence how effectively plants absorb applied nutrients. Nitrogen management is especially critical in areas with sandy soils, which carry a high risk of leaching. Growers must monitor field conditions throughout the growing season and be ready to adjust their practices when crops face stress or require additional nutrients.

Producers are already making input decisions for the upcoming year. Godsey said this is the right time to evaluate products designed to boost nutrient-use efficiency. He encouraged farmers to look for items with a tested record of performance. He advised growers to determine if a product can deliver measurable benefits under their specific farming conditions. Because every operation has different soils and management practices, a product that succeeds on one farm may not work on another.

Testing provides a way to measure return on investment. Godsey said third-party testing is a useful initial step when evaluating new agricultural technologies. He stated, “Third-party testing is always the first place to look at.” However, he emphasized that on-farm trials are also necessary. Growers should evaluate products on their own land to see if they function with their soil types and management systems. He added, “There are a lot of products that work out there, but it’s got to be figured out on your farm.”

Tight profit margins make identifying efficient technologies a priority. Producers need evidence that a product delivers value before committing additional funds. This approach helps ensure that every dollar spent on inputs contributes to the bottom line. The focus remains on practical, measurable results rather than theoretical benefits.

Green Evolution Technologies provides information on its products at investininteligel.com. Farmers can review available data and contact the company for more details. The 2027 growing season planning period is currently underway for many operations in Davidson County and beyond.