Plant growth stages and nutrient requirements

Nutrient management through the different growth stages of a crop is crucial for optimal yields, write Kynoch optimiser agriculturalist Hentie Cilliers and Dr Chris Schmidt, senior agriculturalist at Kynoch.

In previous articles, we focused on the principles and nutrients needed to achieve an optimal start for your crop. A crop’s nutrient requirements are influenced by the crop type, growth stage, and growth conditions.

In this article, we explore the general principles that influence the nutrient requirements and their application in the later stages of development, as well as Plant Nutrient Scheduling®.

Fertilizer Programme

When you compile a fertiliser programme, you first need to calculate what the total nutrient requirement will be. Fertilisation would be easy if we could apply all the required nutrients at once and then rely on the plant to absorb them as needed.

Unfortunately, though, soils have many different properties – for example, clay content, organic matter content, and pH – all of which influence the availability of the nutrients.

It becomes necessary to implement strategies to keep nutrients available to the plant on a continual basis. One such strategy is to split fertilisers applications.

As phenological stages change, so do the plant’s nutrient requirements. For example, during vegetative growth, a nutrient like nitrogen is more important, whereas potassium is more critical during fruit growth. The same principle is true for all 14 essential minerals and five beneficial nutrients (White et al, 2010).

Thus, the nutrient ratio changes according to the requirement for every growth stage. Meticulous planning is needed to ensure the correct nutrient is available at the correct time. By linking the total nutrient requirement with the growth stages, one can determine the requirement for each stage.

The BBCH-Scale

Water, temperature, light, and nutrients are the primary factors affecting growth. These four elements affect growth hormones in the plant, consequently affecting the growth speed. Thus, the time that a plant takes to develop to a specific growth stage can vary.

It is important to plan the fertiliser application according to growth stages rather than the number of days after sowing, which can cause major misalignments with the actual nutrient requirements. Awareness of your crop’s current and upcoming growth stages gives insight to apply fertilisers at the right moment.

Different methodologies were developed to identify the different stages of plant growth. Some approaches are straightforward and broad in scope, while others are comprehensive and specific. In an effort to standardise the classification, scientists from different organisations and institutes worked together to establish the BBCH-scale (Meier et al, 2009).

According to this scale, plant development is broken down into principal and secondary growth stages, both numbered 0 to 9. The following are the 10 stages of plant growth on the BBCHscale: germination, leaf development, formation of side shoots, stem elongation, vegetative plant parts, inflorescence emergence, flowering, fruit development, ripening, and senescence (BSSH working group, 2001).

Adjusting the timing and type or source of fertiliser will ensure that the nutrients are available at the required time.

Plant height and tractor clearance also influence the timing. Under irrigation, it is easier to do multiple applications, depending on the irrigation system.

By knowing the total nutrient requirements and the requirement for each growth stage, identifying the growth stages, and considering factors that influence the timing of application, will assist with Plant Nutrient Scheduling. This is imperative for optimal yields and quality.

Contact your local agriculturalist to assist you in creating your Plant Nutrient Scheduling.

Sources:

• BBCH working group. 2001. ‘Growth stages of mono- and dicotyledonous plants’. Federal Biological Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry. bit.ly/3NOwpId;
• Meier, U, et al. 2009. ‘The BBCH system to coding the phenological growth stages of plants-history and publications’. Journal für Kulturpflanzen, 61, 41–52. bit.ly/4f7j49M; White, PJ and Brown, PH.
• ‘Plant nutrition for sustainable development and global health’. Annals of Botany. 105(7):1073-80. bit.ly/3YsrVMs.

Email info@kynoch.co.za, phone 011 317 2000, or visit kynoch.co.za.

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Pecan leaf sampling as a tool

By Dr Chris Schmidt, Kynoch

Leaf sampling and analysis offer good value as a management tool, such as information on the nutritional needs of the tree and the levels of nutrition. In order to avoid variation in results, a standard methodology is followed when sampling.

Usually only leaves from bearing trees are collected during mid-summer, approximately 120 days after flowering (beginning of January). The various nutritional elements follow different-level behaviour during a season. According to a study by Walworth et al. (2005), nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium tend to be relatively high in the beginning of a season and then decline sharply over the remainder of the season (RotS). Sulphur tends to be lower in the beginning and declines very slowly over the RotS. Zinc declines very little over the RotS and tends to be almost stable. Magnesium, iron, and copper tend to increase slowly over the RotS, while calcium, manganese, and boron seem to increase more steeply over the RotS.

In most cases, the correlations between the elements and behaviour were rather poor. Although a need exists among producers to collect leaf samples regularly during a season, norms for this do not exist. For this reason, the focus is still on mid-summer sampling, since values are stable and correlate with yield, while others during the season do not.

Sampling Leaves

Ideally, leaves should be collected from the middle height of a tree, needing specialised machinery. However, such machinery is not always available, putting the sample collector in a position to opt for the more practical approach, namely to sample a tree at shoulder height. Leaves to be sampled are those situated in the middle of the new growth for the current season. Two leaves are chosen from the compiled leaf in the middle of the growth (depicted in Figure 1).

Leaves to be sampled are those situated in the middle of the new growth for the current season.

Depending on the size of the trees, a combined sample across numerous trees should at least contain 100 leaves. If soil types and management zones in orchards differ, it is best to sample the groups separately.

The following need to be avoided:

• sampling of dead branches, as well as affected leaves (diseases), except if it is the purpose of sampling.
• sampling on the outside of orchards.
• placing and sending samples in sealed-off plastic bags.
• use of galvanised containers and instruments coming into contact with leaves.
• sampling of mechanically or insect-damaged trees.
• mixing of leaves from trees of different ages.
• sampling from trees under drought stress.
• inclusion of roots, soil, and branches along with leaves.

References

1. Flynn, 1999. Sampling for Plant Tissue Analysis – Guide A-123. Extension Agronomy Specialist Shane T. Ball, Extension Agronomy Specialist R.D. Baker, Extension Agronomist.
2. Hammar, 1955. Effect of spray residues and other contaminants on leaf analysis. Horticultural Crops Research Branch, Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Shreveport, Louisiana.
3. Hannan, 2015. Instruction for collecting leaf sample. Iowa State University, Extension and Outreach. http://www.iowaproduce.org/instructionscollecting- leaf-samples. Visited 26 March 2017.
4. Diagnosing Nutrient Disorders of New Mexico Pecan Trees. Guide H-658. College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, New Mexico State University
5. Spectrum Analytic Inc., 2009. Illustrated Guide to Sampling for Plant Analysis.
6. Labanauskas, 1968. Washing Citrus Leaves Leaf Analysis. California Agriculture.
7. Storey, 2012. Pecan leaf sampling. In Texas Pecan Handbook, (Stein, McEachern & Nesbitt, eds.). AgriLIFE Extension. Texas, USA.
8. Walworth & Kilby, 2002. Pecan Leaf Tissue Nutrient Concentrations: Temporal Relationships and Preliminary Standards. 2002 Citrus and Deciduous Fruit and Nut Research Report. University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ.
9. Walworth, Sower, Pond, Kilby, Gibson, Call & Lewis, 2005. Pecan leaf nutrition status. Western Nutrient Management Conference. Vol 6. Salt Lake, USA.

For more information visit www.kynoch.co.za.

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However, the current literature lacks either research scope and depth, and/or industry focus. In response, we seek to differentiate our study from prior reviews by providing a specific focus on the banking sector and a more comprehensive analysis involving multiple modes of analysis. The three main channels where banks can use artificial intelligence to save on costs are front office (conversational banking), middle office (fraud detection and risk management) and back office (underwriting).

The second necessary shift is to embed customer journeys seamlessly in partner ecosystems and platforms, so that banks engage customers at the point of end use and in the process take advantage of partners’ data and channel platform to increase higher engagement and usage. ICICI Bank in India embedded basic banking services on WhatsApp (a popular messaging platform automation banking industry in India) and scaled up to one million users within three months of launch.9“ICICI Bank crosses 1 million users on WhatsApp platform,” Live Mint, July 7, 2020, livemint.com. The presence of AI and RPA technology is prominently seen in the customer experience zone. However, it plays a significant role in the operations of banks and financial services.

How to Implement RPA in Banking: Use Cases in 2024

From taking over monotonous data-entry, to answering simple customer service queries, RPA has been able to save financial workers from spending time on repetitive, labor-intensive tasks. The bank also used the intelligent automation platform to expedite its document custody procedures. Consider, for example, the laborious paperwork that is typically required to refinance homes. By leveraging these data-driven insights, banks can optimize their loan portfolios to align with the newly formed entity’s goals and risk appetite.

Numerous banking activities (e.g., payments, certain types of lending) are becoming invisible, as journeys often begin and end on interfaces beyond the bank’s proprietary platforms. For the bank to be ubiquitous in customers’ lives, solving latent and emerging needs while delivering intuitive omnichannel experiences, banks will need to reimagine how they engage with customers and undertake several key shifts. Automation helps banks streamline treasury operations by increasing productivity for front office traders, enabling better risk management, and improving customer experience.

Report Automation

This view can cover everything from highly transformative business model changes to more tactical economic improvements based on niche productivity initiatives. For example, leaders at a wealth management firm recognized the potential for gen AI to change how to deliver advice to clients, and how it could influence the wider industry ecosystem of operating platforms, relationships, partnerships, and economics. As a result, the institution is taking a more adaptive view of where to place its AI bets and how much to invest. Generative AI (gen AI) burst onto the scene in early 2023 and is showing clearly positive results—and raising new potential risks—for organizations worldwide.

In addition, while there is an abundance of research on credit risk, the exploration of other financial products remains limited. In the Customer theme (26 papers), we uncovered the increasing use of AI as a methodological tool to better understand customer adoption of digital banking services. The sub-theme AI and Customer adoption (11 papers) covers the use of AI as a methodological tool to investigate customers’ adoption of digital banking technologies, including both barriers and motivational factors. For example, Arif et al. (2020) used a neural network approach to investigate barriers to internet-banking adoption by customers. Belanche et al. (2019) investigate factors related to AI-driven technology adoption in the banking sector. Payne et al. (2018) examine the drivers of the usage of AI-enabled mobile banking services.

Many banks are rushing to deploy the latest automation technologies in the hope of delivering the next wave of productivity, cost savings, and improvement in customer experiences. While the results have been mixed thus far, McKinsey expects that early growing pains will ultimately give way to a transformation of banking, with outsized gains for the institutions that master the new capabilities. Another emerging change is that banks are opening up APIs to the surrounding ecosystem. Three-quarters of today’s APIs are still internal (that is, they are targeted at developers or customers within an organization), while only one-quarter are available to partners or the public. Internal APIs continue to be important and should not be overlooked; they enable efficiency and speed, and they significantly reduce integration costs. Banks are planning on increasing the share of APIs available for partners and the public to almost 50 percent over the next three years, laying the technical foundation for wider ecosystems.

The numerous benefits of RPA make it inevitable to the financial and banking services. As per the reports, by 2025, the RPA industry is expected to grow to $6.7 trillion in the global economy. The second factor is that scaling gen AI complicates an operating dynamic that had been nearly resolved for most financial institutions. Just as banks could believe they were finally bridging the infamous divide between business and technology (for example, with agile, cloud, and product operating model changes), analytics and data rose to prominence and created a critical third node of coordination. While analytics at banks have been relatively focused, and often governed centrally, gen AI has revealed that data and analytics will need to enable every step in the value chain to a much greater extent. Business leaders will have to interact more deeply with analytics colleagues and synchronize often-differing priorities.

Our recent global survey on APIs in banking revealed that 88 percent of respondents believe APIs have become more important over the past two years (see sidebar, “About the research”). Large banks are launching API programs and allocating about 14 percent of their IT budget to APIs on average. Naturally, banks encounter distinct regulatory oversight, concerning issues such as model interpretability and unbiased decision making, that must be comprehensively tackled before scaling any application. Banks that foster integration between technical talent and business leaders are more likely to develop scalable gen AI solutions that create measurable value.

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Soil is not just a passive environment where plants grow, but a dynamic, living system that plays a critical role in agricultural success. While it is often perceived as a vast reservoir of water, nutrients, microbes, and organic matter, assuming that plants will simply draw from these resources as needed, this viewpoint oversimplifies the true complexity of soil-plant interaction. For farmers seeking to optimise crop yields and soil efficiency, it is vital to grasp the fundamental processes that govern the relationship between soil properties, root systems, and nutrient availability. By deepening our understanding of these factors, we can unlock the full potential of our land, improve plant health, and maximise the return on agricultural investments.

The Importance of Soil Chemistry in Plant Growth

At the core of soil and plant interaction lies soil chemistry. The ability of soil to supply essential nutrients, facilitate water movement, and support microbial life directly influences plant growth and productivity. Understanding the chemical properties of soil, such as pH, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and organic matter content, allows farmers to make informed decisions regarding fertiliser application and soil management.

Soil pH, for instance, significantly impacts nutrient availability. In highly acidic or alkaline soils, certain nutrients become less available to plants, resulting in poor growth. By adjusting soil pH through the application of lime or sulphur, farmers can ensure that nutrients are in their most bioavailable form, enabling crops to take up nutrients more efficiently. Cation exchange capacity is another key factor, as it reflects the soil’s ability to hold and exchange nutrients. Soils with high CEC have a greater capacity to retain essential cations such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium, reducing nutrient leaching and improving plant uptake.

Soil Structure and Its Impact on Root Development

Soil structure—the arrangement of soil particles into aggregates—also plays a crucial role in plant growth. Well-structured soils have good aeration, water-holding capacity, and root penetration, allowing roots to explore a larger volume of soil and access more nutrients. Compacted soils, on the other hand, restrict root growth, reduce water infiltration, and limit oxygen availability, all of which negatively affect plant health.

Farmers can improve soil structure by incorporating organic matter, such as compost or cover crops, into their fields. Organic matter acts as a binding agent, promoting the formation of stable soil aggregates. Additionally, no-till or reduced-till farming practices can help maintain soil structure by minimising soil disturbance and promoting the activity of soil organisms like earthworms, which play a key role in creating channels for water and air movement.

Nutrient Uptake Mechanisms: How Plants Absorb Essential Elements

To understand how plants interact with soil, it is essential to explore the mechanisms by which they absorb nutrients. Nutrient uptake is not a passive process; rather, it involves a combination of root growth, soil properties, and chemical interactions. There are three primary mechanisms through which plants acquire nutrients: interception, mass flow, and diffusion.

1. Interception: Direct Root Contact with Nutrients

Interception occurs when plant roots physically encounter nutrients as they grow through the soil. Although this mechanism only accounts for a small percentage of nutrient uptake—approximately 1% for maize—it plays a role in absorbing nutrients such as phosphorus, potassium, and zinc. The efficiency of interception depends on root density, soil structure, and the availability of nutrients in the soil. In well-structured soils with an abundance of organic matter, root growth is more extensive, increasing the chances of direct contact with essential nutrients.

2. Mass Flow: Nutrients Carried by Water

Mass flow is the movement of nutrients dissolved in soil water towards the roots as plants take up water. This mechanism is particularly important for the uptake of nutrients that are mobile in the soil, such as nitrogen (in the form of nitrate), calcium, and sulphur. In environments with adequate rainfall or irrigation, mass flow is a dominant mechanism for nutrient uptake. However, in dry conditions, the effectiveness of mass flow decreases, making it important for farmers to monitor soil moisture levels and adjust irrigation practices accordingly.

3. Diffusion: Movement of Nutrients from High to Low Concentration

Diffusion is the movement of nutrients from areas of higher concentration to areas of lower concentration, driven by a concentration gradient. This mechanism is particularly important for nutrients like phosphorus, potassium, and zinc, which are less mobile in the soil. These nutrients are often bound to soil particles and need to diffuse through the soil solution to reach plant roots. Farmers can improve diffusion by placing fertilisers close to the root zone, ensuring that nutrients are within reach of the growing roots.

The Role of the Rhizosphere in Nutrient Availability

The rhizosphere—the narrow region of soil surrounding plant roots—is a hotspot of biological activity and plays a critical role in nutrient availability. Root exudates, which include sugars, amino acids, and organic acids, are released into the rhizosphere and influence nutrient availability in several ways.

Root Exudates and Microbial Interactions

Root exudates feed soil microbes, which, in turn, play a vital role in nutrient cycling. For example, bacteria in the rhizosphere can convert organic forms of nitrogen into plant-available forms like ammonium and nitrate. Similarly, mycorrhizal fungi form symbiotic relationships with plant roots, extending their hyphae into the soil to access nutrients like phosphorus that would otherwise be out of reach.

Chelation and Nutrient Solubility

Certain root exudates, particularly organic acids, can chelate (bind) metal ions like zinc, iron, manganese, and copper, making them more soluble and available for plant uptake. This process is especially important in soils with high pH, where these micronutrients may be present but not in a form that plants can easily absorb. Chelation improves the bioavailability of these essential nutrients, promoting healthier plant growth and development.

pH Modification in the Rhizosphere

Plants can actively modify the pH of their rhizosphere by releasing hydrogen ions (H+) or bicarbonates (HCO3-), depending on the nutrient needs and soil conditions. For example, in response to low phosphorus availability, plant roots may release organic acids that lower the rhizosphere pH, increasing the solubility of phosphorus and making it easier for plants to absorb. By understanding how plants interact with their rhizosphere, farmers can tailor their fertilisation practices to ensure that nutrients are available in the right form and at the right time.

Precision Fertilisation: Maximising Efficiency and Minimising Waste

Precision fertilisation is a key component of modern farming practices that aims to apply the right amount of nutrients at the right time and place. By understanding the mechanisms of nutrient uptake and the role of the rhizosphere, farmers can make informed decisions about fertiliser application, ensuring that nutrients are used efficiently and sustainably.

For example, nutrients that rely on diffusion, such as phosphorus and potassium, are most effective when placed near the root zone at planting. In contrast, nutrients that are mobile in the soil, like nitrogen and sulphur, can be broadcast or applied through fertigation. Tailoring fertilisation strategies to the specific needs of the crop and soil conditions not only improves nutrient use efficiency but also reduces the risk of nutrient runoff and environmental pollution.

Conclusion: Enhancing Crop Performance Through Soil-Plant Interaction

Optimising soil and plant interaction is key to improving agricultural productivity and sustainability. By understanding the complex processes that govern nutrient uptake, farmers can implement more effective soil management and fertilisation practices. This knowledge allows for better utilisation of resources, reducing input costs while increasing crop yields. Kynoch Fertilizer’s range of enhanced-efficiency fertilisers, along with expert agronomic advice, can help farmers optimise their fertilisation programmes for long-term success.

For personalised advice on improving nutrient management and soil health, contact Kynoch Fertilizer’s experienced agriculturalists on 011 317 2000 or info@kynoch.co.za

Compiled by: Hentie Cilliers or Chris Schmidt from Kynoch Fertilizer

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References

• Barber, S.A. (1995). Soil Nutrient Bioavailability: A Mechanistic Approach. 2nd edition. John Wiley & Sons.
• Marschner, H. (1995). Mineral Nutrition of Higher Plants (2nd edition). Academic Press, San Diego.
• McKenzie, B.M., Mullins, C.E., Tisdall, J.M., Bengough, A.G. (2012). Root-soil friction: Quantification provides evidence for measurable benefits for manipulation of root-tip traits. Plant Cell Environ, 36, 1085-1092.
• Mengel, K. (1995). Roots, Growth and Nutrient Uptake. Department of Agronomy publication # AGRY-95-08 (Rev. May-95). Purdue University, USA. Link. Accessed on 27 August 2024.

The post Unlocking Soil-Plant Interaction: Boost Crop Growth with Enhanced Fertilisation Strategies first appeared on Kynoch Fertilizer.

Knowledge Makes a Difference

As part of the ETG Group, Kynoch Fertilizer is fully aware of our social responsibility in agriculture, engaging in projects that involve subsistence and emerging producers. Our footprint extends beyond South Africa to the entire continent.

For Kynoch, uplifting communities in our service areas is not just “the right thing to do” but a significant responsibility and privilege to be involved in such projects. The company participates in small-scale horticultural projects in local communities, as well as large-scale projects involving organised agriculture.

Fertiliser Recommendations

Every project has its unique challenges, but history has shown that the quality of fertiliser recommendations and the physical quality of the product are among the reasons why projects have failed. Some projects did not receive the best fertiliser recommendations and quality fertiliser. Financial challenges typically played a dominant role. Extension officers from the various provincial departments often lacked technical knowledge on fertiliser recommendations, resulting in projects failing to be financially sustainable.

Ongoing agricultural support is crucial for the success of such projects, and Kynoch excels in this with our extensive support network throughout the production period. Our local agents play a vital role in schools running horticultural projects. They are actively involved from site selection to harvesting the produce and establishing the next vegetables and/or fruits. Kynoch offers small packaging (1 kg, 2 kg, or 5 kg) tailored to the market and facilitates transportation. Not only are quality products provided, but ongoing training and support are also offered.

Soil Analyses

A second limitation or challenge is that the basis of fertiliser recommendations, namely soil analyses, is often missing or very outdated. Emerging producers then do not receive correct agronomic recommendations, which immediately puts them at a disadvantage. Kynoch’s philosophy is that there should be no distinction between commercial and emerging producers’ fertiliser recommendations.

Our agronomists consider each farm and project’s unique circumstances when composing recommendations. Due to financial constraints, the quality of fertiliser has often been a problem affecting yields negatively. As a responsible partner in the projects, quality fertiliser is non-negotiable for Kynoch. The fertiliser for social responsibility projects is manufactured at Kynoch’s facilities with the same raw materials and quality as for commercial clients. The plant mixture and top dressing are recommended according to agronomic principles and applied according to the recommended kilograms per hectare.

One of the social responsibility projects Kynoch is extremely proud to be involved in is Grain SA’s one-hectare project. Kynoch was approached by Grain SA ten years ago to be part of the Beyond Abundance project. This project provides subsistence farmers across South Africa, primarily in the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Limpopo, who operate one-hectare subsistence farms, with fertiliser, seed, lime, and chemical products in smaller packages as part of the suppliers’ social responsibility programmes. There are strict qualification criteria that prospective participants must meet to be admitted to the project.

The uniqueness of the project is that producers are expected to make a financial contribution for a percentage of the total inputs. This creates accountability and a sense of ownership for the subsistence farmers and is key to the project’s success. There is literally a waiting list to join the project. The fact that the producers are managed and assisted by Grain SA mentors is also largely responsible for the project’s success. The mentors have full access to Kynoch’s agricultural team for assistance and advice. The project also benefits from Kynoch’s extensive distribution network spread across the project area, ensuring that damaged products can be quickly replaced.

Some projects are in the most remote areas of the country, making the transportation of fertiliser a significant challenge. Some delivery points are literally in the “boondocks.” Together with Kynoch’s in-house transport company, Tengwa Transport, and their subcontractors, loads are combined as efficiently as possible and dispatched to various delivery points. With the help of Grain SA mentors, the delivery process is facilitated, and control over quantities is exercised.

Kynoch’s involvement in the Grain SA project remains one of our flagship social responsibility projects. The impact on the economic, social, and mental well-being of communities is immeasurable in financial terms, and it gives us the greatest pleasure to be involved in new projects in the future.

By: Jakes Du Plessis: Kynoch

Kontak Kynoch op 011 317 2000 of info@kynoch.co.za

The post Kynoch Fertilizer’s Impact: Supporting Emerging Farmers Through Sustainable Agricultural Projects first appeared on Kynoch Fertilizer.

Introduction

With the recent Olympic Games still fresh in our minds, we can liken the maize plant to a 100-metre sprinter. There are many characteristics that align between a maize plant and a 100-metre sprinter. Maize is inherently a fast-growing crop, but with the new genetics of ultra-fast cultivars, maize is being bred even faster. We have learned that maize establishes its yield potential very early in the season, with ultra-fast cultivars potentially doing so as early as the V3 growth stage. This is an extremely early stage in the maize plant’s life cycle, and with this critical information, we understand that the start of the maize plant is just as crucial as it is for a 100-metre sprinter. The maize plant, or the athlete, can be the best, the fittest, and have the best genetics, along with the best training, but if they stumble at the start of the race, they will not perform to the best of their ability. When the starting gun goes off, everything must be right from the beginning to achieve the best start. The photos below show how early the maize plant begins to form and develop the ear and cob.

Kynoch Opti-Start

The Opti-Start principle is a holistic approach to crop production followed by Kynoch because crop nutrition is only a part of the total success; therefore, much focus is placed on the agronomic aspects of farming to provide the best start for maize. Yield is primarily driven by three main factors: climate, crop, and soil. The producer does not control climatic factors but can create the best potential to better handle stressful weather conditions. Crop factors include cultivar choice, planting depth, plant density, row width, crop rotation, weeds, and pest control. Soil factors such as soil type, tillage, seedbed preparation, and water and salt management must also be considered. Once all the agronomic elements are in place, plant nutrition will come into play. The “4R” principle is applied when deciding on the best fertiliser option; in other words, the (a) right source, (b) right place, (c) right rate, and (d) right time. All these four components must be in place to achieve improved fertiliser efficiency.

Kynoch Start-Up Products

As maize start-up within a given season is of cardinal importance, it is essential to use the right products in the right place. Kynoch offers a wide range of specialised high-quality products scientifically formulated to give maize the best possible start. Kynoch provides producers with a technologically-driven stabilised urea granule fertiliser (KynoPlus®) with reduced loss, and also safer for use in planting mixtures. The ULTRA® range provides essential micro-elements (on each granule) that further enhance potential and start-up. The Miracle range has an improved potassium source, plus additional sulphur and silicon, and the CASUMA® range contains secondary elements that are essential for a good start. Consult your Kynoch agronomist for guidance on tailored products to support seedlings, stimulate root growth, and protect seedlings against early stress conditions (such as cold and wet weather); in other words, a better start akin to that of a stronger athlete.

Kynoch offers improved efficiency through innovation. This includes a range of well-considered products from the basic level to high-added technology, as well as prompt and dedicated service. Your satisfaction is important to us. For more information, contact your Kynoch representative and/or agronomist on 011 317 2000 or info@kynoch.co.za. Compiled by Jason Sparrow (SACNASP No: 400202/11)  and Edward Dwyer (SACNASP No: 148614), Kynoch agronomists, Northern Cape.

KynoPlus® K8024 (Act 36 of 1947) 

Ultra Starter® K9001 (Act 36 of 1947) 

Kynoch Fertilizer (Pty) Ltd Registration Number: 2009/0092541/07

Kynoch – Improved Efficiency through Innovation

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By Renier Bothma, Ruan Gagiano and Etienne Bruwer (Kynoch Fertilizer)

Dryland crop production is subject to extreme climatic conditions, along with the inherent risks that come with it. According to Grain SA’s (2024) 6th production estimate, maize and soybeans are expected to dominate grain production areas in the 2024/2025 season. Therefore, it is critical to make the right product choice in terms of fertilisation for soybeans and maize.

The ideal planting time for maize and soybeans can vary from one week to a month, depending on the season. External factors can suppress crop growth, but by using fertiliser “on” the seed (“Pop-up”), the negative effects of these factors can be significantly reduced. One product specifically designed for this purpose is KynoPop®. Micronutrients such as zinc, iron, manganese, copper, boron, and molybdenum are essential for the growth of maize and soybeans, playing key roles in processes like enzyme function and photosynthesis. The product contains all the important macro- and micronutrients that a young seedling needs to improve growth and reduce overall plant stress.

An additional supplement that can further help reduce stress is the application of KynoFulvate Yellow® and KynoKelp® in the planting furrow during planting. Both products are in liquid form, making them easy to mix with KynoPop®. KynoFulvate Yellow® is a fulvic acid that improves the availability of nutrients to the plant and can also serve as a food source for microorganisms. KynoKelp® is a seaweed extract containing natural macro- and micronutrients, which is excellent for promoting root development. It is derived from the kelp species Ecklonia maxima. All three products are locally manufactured and address important plant needs when used in combination.

Kynoch Fertilizer’s Ultra® range offers an alternative solution for micronutrient and macronutrient feeding! Since some micronutrients are less mobile in the soil, positioning them near the roots ensures that plants can optimally absorb the nutrients. The band placement of the Ultra® range reduces the potential lock-up of nutrients due to soil interactions.

Foliar sprays of micronutrients have their place in crop nutrition, but can sometimes vary significantly in terms of effectiveness. Nutrients applied to leaves can be washed off or may not be consistently absorbed, making band placement a more stable and efficient approach. Local application of micronutrients in the root zone is also more cost-effective, as it reduces nutrient losses and often requires fewer applications (Nathan et al., 2011).

When discussing macronutrient feeding, nitrogen volatilisation is one of the biggest challenges in a dryland production system in South Africa. According to Botha (1987), high rates of volatilisation are common in soils with low clay content, due to fluctuating pH levels. Other factors that have a significant impact on volatilisation include wind speed and temperature, both of which typically vary in dryland crop production. Kynoch Fertilizer’s KynoPlus® range offers a solution for reduced volatilisation through the incorporation of a urease inhibitor.

Soybeans have a low nitrogen requirement because they host a nitrogen-fixing bacterium, Rhizobium, which supplies nitrogen to the plant. Maize, on the other hand, has a high nitrogen requirement, and this need must be supplemented at various stages. Most nitrogen applications occur during pre-planting and topdressing, where it is critical to minimise nitrogen losses by using the KynoPlus® range. A wide variety of planting mixtures, as well as topdressing products, are available in the KynoPlus® option.

Kynoch Fertilizer offers effective solutions to reduce crop stress through a range of products formulated for dryland crop production. Contact your nearest Kynoch agent or agronomist today to find out how we can meet your needs!

References:

Botha, A.D.P. 1987. Nitrogen losses from urea, UAN and LAN when applied to four different soils, South African Journal of Plant and Soil, 4(1): 43-46.

Grain SA. 2024. Production Estimates. [https://www.grainsa.co.za/report-documents?cat=27] Date of access: 30 Aug. 2024.

Nathan, D., Mueller, A., Dorivar, A. 2011. Micronutrients As Starter and Foliar Application For Corn And Soybean. Available at: [https://www.extension.iastate.edu/Pages/eccrops/nceisfc11/8.pdf] Date of access: 30 Sept. 2024.

USDA (United States Department of Agriculture). 2024. [https://apps.fas.usda.gov/newgainapi/api/Report/DownloadReportByFileName?fileName=Grain%20and%20Feed%20Annual_Pretoria_South%20Africa%20-%20Republic%20of_SF2024-0006] Date of access: 30 Aug. 2024.

Contact us today to get tailored advice for your needs: 011 317 2000 or contact one of our regional managers directly: here

KynoPop® K9101 (Act 36 of 1947)

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Regenerative Agriculture from a fertiliser company’s perspective.

Regenerative agriculture is no new concept. Farmers, agriculturists, agricultural companies, laboratories—everyone in the agricultural sector is regularly confronted with this way of farming. Its benefits are numerous. According to the FAO, not only does it save the farmer time, labour and costs, but it also improves nutrient use efficiency, soil stability and organic matter. The environment also benefits. Soil erosion is reduced, water as well as air quality is improved and there is an increase in biodiversity.[1]

Regenerative agriculture (RA) is a way of farm management focusing on ensuring food security, environmental stability and a future in agriculture. It’s no silver bullet with no recipe to follow. It requires time, trials, learning from mistakes, evaluation, adjustment, and learning. Still, South Africa took no backseat when it comes to RA. According to the database of Asset Research, by 2021, 25% of South Africa adopted Conservation agricultural practices, while 60% are practicing some form of conservation tillage.[2]

Farmers are forced by soil erosion, water runoff, and loss of organic matter or nutrients to train themselves and learn hard lessons to adopt regenerative agriculture. They learned that in order to manage your farm to ensure a future, food security and sustainability, the focus lies on soil quality, crop quality, nutritional value and environmental impact. It is of utmost importance that you know YOUR farm. The soil and climate with which you have to deal, and the outcomes you work towards.

Kynoch takes no step back from the journey farmers are on. We offer services which complement the farmers’ goals. Not only do we offer sound agronomic advice, but your precision farming needs are also looked after. Kynoch offer services where we determine the soil texture, soil chemistry and heterogeneity of the farm. We are able to determine the impact of soil properties, crop rotation, climate and management systems on soil quality (soil health) and with our knowledgeable agriculturists, your crops’ health, nutritional value and quality are tested frequently to ensure good quality crops as well as soil all throughout the season.

Not only do Kynoch’s agriculturists assist farmers in obtaining knowledge based on their farms’ soil type, soil form, and chemical characteristics through sampling and analysis, but they are also able to take biological factors into account when making decisions. Through the help of Sporatec, Kynoch’s agriculturists are equipped with the necessary tools to ensure that the biodiversity on your farm isn’t neglected. We offer products to ensure that the local beneficial microbes on your farm are happy and do what they do best.

No matter your farm management system, your crop rotation system—whether it consists of cash crops, cover crops or the presence of livestock—your objectives or your means to the end: Kynoch’s agriculturists live our slogan, enhanced efficiency through innovation, and are ready to take your hand and support your goals. We don’t just supply fertiliser to farmers’; we work together to ensure a sustainable future for South Africa’s agriculture.

[1] Benefits of Conservation Agriculture (CA), FAO

[2] Asset research, 2021

Figure 1: Cover crops as part of the crop rotation system after soyas, before maize

Figure 2: No-till intercropping on maize to achieve permanent soil coverage

Figure 3: Maize stubble on no-till soybean fields which form part of a maize, soybean, and cover crop farming system

Figure 4: A macadamia orchard in the Western Cape uses Elephant grass as a windbreak and to provide mulch, and the inter-row cover crop is mainly kikuyu and clovers.

Article compiled by: Graham Peddie, Chris Burbidge and Lunay de Kock—Kynoch Agriculturists

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The multifunctionality of this phenomenon is evident in its roles in nutrient cycling, biological pest control, and the regulation of water and air availability, which are influenced by a combination of physical, chemical and biological factors.

The multifunctionality of this phenomenon is evident in its roles in nutrient cycling, biological pest control, and the regulation of water and air availability, which are influenced by a combination of physical, chemical and biological factors.

The complex relationship between soil health, water quality, and climate change can involve multiple perspectives, resulting in a complicated theoretical mixture.

This overview focuses on farmers and their soil at grassroots level, with sustainability in mind within our practical reality. What steps can the farmer take to begin improving soil health?

Add organic matter to the soil
In South Africa, the levels of organic matter in soils are very low, with approximately 58% of soils containing less than 0,5% organic carbon. The amount of organic matter varies depending on factors such as climate, vegetation, topography and soil texture.

Increasing the organic matter in the soil will have direct and indirect benefits for soil quality. Microbes break down plant residues in the soil to convert them into carbon.

The availability of inorganic nitrogen, soil water conditions, and temperature all have an impact on the rate of decomposition. Increased cultivation can lead to a faster breakdown and depletion of carbon. Therefore, it is recommended to minimise tillage and promote root growth by using seaweed extracts, adding calcium, magnesium, zinc and boron, as well as using humic acid (liquid carbon).

Micro-organisms in the soil
There are two main approaches that could be followed:

Add microbes to the soil: Adding microbes to the soil can have beneficial effects. This can be achieved by using granular fertiliser that is coated with microbes, applying organic material that contains microbes, or using liquids that contain microbes. Dry products can be spread evenly over the soil or placed in specific areas.

Feed microbes already in the soil: There is a large population of micro-organisms in the soil, estimated to be around 100 billion per gram of soil. When plant roots are in the soil, they come into contact with these microbes. The highest activity of microbes is typically found in the top 20cm of soil. Therefore, it is beneficial to provide carbon sources such as humic acid and fulvic acid to feed these microbes.

Add ‘housing’ for microbes
Carbon, such as biochar, organic roughs, or humic acids, can be utilised as a soil amendment to enhance crop growth by regulating soil conditions. This is due to its distinctive qualities, including a large surface area, a rich pore structure, an abundance of oxygen-containing functional groups, and a high cation exchange capacity.

Spray microbes on plants
Each plant possesses a microbiome that consists of fungi, viruses and bacteria, which play crucial roles in the plant’s functioning and survival. These micro-organisms can be found in various areas, such as the root zone (known as the rhizosphere), the internal environment of the plant (endosphere), and the above-ground surfaces (phyllosphere).

Farmers have the option to introduce microbes to the plant’s above-ground growth through foliar sprays or to the soil through soil drenches.

Irrigation
The practice of wetting soil profiles and subsequently withholding water for an adequate duration to facilitate the re-establishment of oxygen in the soil is considered a beneficial approach, as it effectively mitigates the occurrence of prolonged anaerobic conditions.

Conclusion
Lastly, it is worth noting that crop rotation is a highly effective management strategy that exerts a significant influence on microbial diversity within the soil.

Author: Dr Chris Schmidt

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Regular soil testing is crucial for monitoring the status of the soil solution.

When discussing crop nutrition, the focus is often on soil nutrient levels. However, many processes and interactions occur in the soil solution, which is a dynamic mixture of water, dissolved nutrients, minerals and organic compounds present in the soil’s pore spaces.

The soil solution plays a crucial role in delivering nutrients to plant roots, supporting biochemical processes and facilitating the uptake of essential elements. Key factors affecting the soil solution include:

SOIL PH

The soil pH influences nutrient availability and mineral solubility. Outside the optimal range, certain nutrients become less soluble while others may become toxic. Acidic soils reduce the availability of nutrients like phosphorus, calcium and magnesium while increasing the solubility of toxic metals like aluminium and manganese. Alkaline soils limit the availability of essential micronutrients like iron, zinc, and manganese.

SOIL TEXTURE

The proportion of sand, silt and clay particles affects water and nutrient retention. Sandy soils have larger particles and fewer binding sites, which leads to poor nutrient retention and a higher risk of nutrient leaching.

Clay soils have fine particles and high nutrient-holding capacity but can sometimes retain nutrients too tightly, limiting their availability.

CATION EXCHANGE CAPACITY

Cation exchange capacity (CEC) is a measure of a soil’s ability to hold and exchange positively charged ions (cations) like potassium, calcium and magnesium. Soils with a higher CEC (typically clay or those rich in organic matter) can hold more nutrients, making them available to plants over time. Low-CEC soils (usually sandy soils) have a lower nutrient-holding capacity, leading to more frequent nutrient deficiencies.

SOIL STRUCTURE

Well-structured soil has better aeration and allows for easier root penetration, facilitating nutrient access. Compacted soil, on the other hand, can restrict root expansion and reduce nutrient uptake.

ORGANIC MATTER

Organic matter, including compost and decomposed plant material, enriches the soil solution by increasing nutrient availability and improving soil structure.

As organic matter decomposes, it releases nutrients into the soil solution and enhances the soil’s ability to retain water and nutrients, which benefits plant roots.

SOIL MOISTURE

Water is the medium through which nutrients are dissolved and transported to plant roots. Excess moisture can cause the leaching of nutrients, especially nitrogen. Lack of moisture reduces the solubility and movement of nutrients, limiting plant uptake.

SOIL MICROBIAL ACTIVITY

Micro-organisms in the soil play a crucial role in nutrient cycling. They break down organic matter, fix atmospheric nitrogen, and solubilise phosphorus and other nutrients, making them available to plants. Healthy soils with active microbial communities promote faster nutrient cycling and greater nutrient availability in the soil solution.

SOIL COMPACTION

Compacted soil has reduced pore spaces, limiting water infiltration, air movement, and root penetration. This can impede the movement of nutrients in the soil solution and restrict the plants’ access to them.

TEMPERATURE

Warmer temperatures generally increase microbial activity, speeding up nutrient cycling and availability. Cold soil slows down microbial processes and reduces nutrient availability, especially nitrogen mineralisation.

NUTRIENT INTERACTIONS

Fertilisation aspects – such as frequency of application, nutrient concentration, chemical form, and nutrient solubility – need to be considered. Enhancing the soil solution can significantly improve nutrient availability, ensuring plants have access to the essential elements they need for optimal growth and productivity.

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