ide-seed-and-fertilizer

You’re Sitting on a Fertilizer Mine… You Just Can’t Access It

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 12:45:42 GMT

Hope Isn't a Fertility Program

You’re watching the markets.

Waiting. Running numbers. Trying to make sense of what next year is going to look like.

Hoping fertilizer prices come down.

But deep down, you already know the truth.

Hope isn't a strategy.

And it's definitely not a fertility program.

The Problem No One Wants to Say Out Loud

Every year, the same conversation comes up:

“Maybe next year input prices will settle down.”
“Maybe things will get back to normal.”

But let’s ask a better question…

When was the last “normal” year?

Fertilizer prices spike.
Supply chains tighten.
Margins get thinner.

And now we’re seeing something even more concerning:

Mines are shutting down because they can’t afford to produce at today’s prices. The Mosaic Company @MosaicCompany @Secretary Brooke Rollins

You Have Two Choices

Right now, every operation is facing the same decision whether they realize it or not.

Option 1

Hope prices come down.

Hope inputs get cheaper.

Hope next year works out.

Option 2

Build a system that works regardless of what the market does.

Because hoping your soil mineralizes is not a strategy either.

What If You Already Have What You Need

This is where the thinking has to shift.

What if the real opportunity is not buying fertilizer cheaper, but needing less of it in the first place?

Not by cutting corners. Not by risking yield. But by understanding what is already sitting in your soil and figuring out how to use it. Because here is what most people do not realize.

You are already sitting on decades of fertility.

On average:

1,500 - 3,000 plus pounds per acre of phosphate
25,000 plus pounds per acre of potash

That is not a supply issue.

That is an access issue.

Open Your Own "Fertilizer Mine"

What if you stopped chasing price and started thinking about access ?

That is the shift. We are not telling you to eliminate fertilizer completely. We are not saying you should gamble with your yields. We are telling you to build a system where your soil actually releases what it already has. Essentially, you can open your own fertilizer mine.

The nutrients are there. The question is whether your current system is allowing the plants to use them.

This is Already Happening.

This is not theory anymore.

This is happening right now across real farms and real acres around the United States. And we've now proven it works in Minnesota.

Ide Seed has more than 100 customers are already implementing this approach.
Over 7,500 new acres are being managed this way this year.
On average, operations are saving around $50-100+ per acre on fertilizer without sacrificing yield.

This map shows that it is not isolated to one area either. It is growing, and it is working in a wide range of conditions.

Quit Farming Like It's 1970.

Look at your operation today compared to 20, 30, or 50 years ago.

Your equipment has changed.
Your genetics have improved.
Your technology is more advanced than ever.

Now ask yourself this: What else are you still doing the same way you did decades ago?

For a lot of operations, fertility management is near the top of that list. The same style of soil testing. The same type of recommendations. The same general approach.

Everything else evolved. This did not.

So the real question becomes simple: Why are we still guessing?

More < Access

This is where most people get stuck.

They think the answer is putting more on. More fertilizer, more products, more inputs. But that approach only works if the plant can actually access what is there.

Nutrient conversion is biological.

If your biology is not working, your fertility is not working. It does not matter how much you apply if the system cannot make it available to the plant.

So the goal is not to pile more on top. The goal is to make what is already there usable .

This is Bigger Than Saving Money

Saving $50-100+ per acre matters. There is no question about that. But that is not the biggest opportunity.

The bigger opportunity is control.

When you rely less on outside inputs and volatile markets, you gain more control over your costs, your consistency, and your outcomes. You are no longer at the mercy of price swings or supply issues in the same way.

That changes how you farm. It changes how you plan. And it changes how you manage risk.

When Opportunity Shows Up

There is a quote that fits this perfectly.

"When opportunity comes, it is too late to prepare for it." -John Wooden

The farmers who win over the next few years will not be the ones who waited for prices to drop or conditions to improve.

They will be the ones who built a better system before they were forced to.

The Bottom Line

You can keep hoping things change. Or you can start building a system that works.

Because this is already being proven. Across Minnesota. Across real acres. With real results.

Field by field, more operations are figuring out how to unlock what is already in their soil instead of depending on what they have to buy.

The map is filling up. So the question is not whether this works.

The question is simple: Are you going to be part of it?

We're ready when you are!

Hit Your Yield Target with the Right Tools

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 14:34:07 GMT

Tired of all these “soil health” yield-enhancing products on the market?

If you’re tired of “one-size-fits-all” soil-health products, then we have tools that will help you hit your yield targets without the guesswork.

Here’s how:

BaselineRx: NOT your average grid soil test. BaselineRx analyzes 75+ soil metrics — from nutrients to biology to porosity — to unlock the nutrients your plants already have in the ground.
The products: yielding more isn’t magic. It’s simple and achievable when using the data from YOUR field for precise product applications.

If you care about real results (and ROI), you don’t want to guess with fertility. We have the tools for you.

“It isn’t what we don’t know that gives us trouble, it’s what we know that ain’t so.”

Will Rogers

The University of Minnesota has been clear that " the conversion of N to nitrate is biological in nature." They've been saying for years that we have plenty of nutrients in our soil. We just can't access them. Those nutrients are locked up, unavailable to plants without the right biological activity. This is where the right tools and products come into play. It's not magic. It's biology.

So knowing it’s a biological function to change rock nutrients into plant-available forms, and knowing that not all soil mineralizes the same way, why doesn’t everyone test and measure this?

BaselineRx does this and so much more.

Also, no one else has our microbes. Everyone else does the “here, “try this.” Imitation is the greatest form of flattery. If you went to the doctor with a stomach ache and came home with your leg in a cast, you would question things, so why do you guess on the huge input cost of fertility?

You have 3 options:

Ignore biology
Guess at over 1,000 products in the industry
Use BaselineRx to Hit the Bullseye!

Wars are won and lost by good and bad information. So why would you not want the good Utalized information?

Conversion of ammonium to nitrate is biological in nature.

Ready to test your soil biology and build a plan
that actually works?

We are scheduling Beginning Soil Health meetings for the winter, as well as more advanced meetings.

Contact Ide Seed & Fertilizer today to reserve a spot at a meeting. Because feeding your soil means feeding your future.

In the Middle of Difficulty Lies Opportunity

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 15:01:15 GMT

"In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity." - Albert Einstein

The question is: Will you change anything?

As harvest gets underway, we know many of you are already seeing the writing on the wall. Whether you're just getting started or haven't even begun yet, you can tell this isn't the year you hoped for. Bean yields that should've been better. Corn that looked promising but won't deliver. Bank statements that make your stomach turn.

The stress is real: the late nights running numbers, the weight of wondering how to make next year different.

But here's what we want you to understand: This isn't just about surviving. It's about finding the opportunity hidden in this year's challenges.

The Stress You Can See (And The Stress You Can't)

We've talked about controlling stress levels in crops many times. Yet here we are: a year with nearly irrigation-type rainfall in many areas, and people are still disappointed in soybean yields. Depending on your location, corn yields are merely adequate at best.

Take a look at your bean plants. If you're not seeing 100+ pods per plant with a population of 120,000, you're experiencing biology problems. It's that simple. When your bean yields keep trending down instead of up, that's one of the first signs your soil biology isn't working for you.

Here's another telltale sign: Compare your corn hybrid maturity choices to what you planted 10-15 years ago. Have you shifted to much later maturities because your corn dies too soon? That's biology sending you a message.

What Would 10-15 Extra Bushels Mean to Your Family?

Let's get real for a minute. What happens when you add 10 bushels per acre to this year's bean crop? Or 15 bushels to your corn?

That's not just numbers on a spreadsheet. That's breathing room. That's your stress level dropping. That's being able to sleep at night knowing you're going to be okay.

Think of it as a life jacket when you're drowning in low prices and high input costs.

The Three-Legged Stool That's Missing a Leg

Just like a stool needs all three legs to stand, your soil needs physical, chemical, AND biological components to function. Most operations have been focusing on just two legs for decades: the physical (tillage, structure) and chemical (NPK fertilizer).

No wonder things feel unstable.

The biological leg? That's where the real opportunity lies. And here's the encouraging part: According to recent industry research, more than 60% of surveyed U.S. growers are planning to increase biological use by 2026, citing improved soil health and sustainability as key drivers.

You're not alone in recognizing that something needs to change.

Yellow Beans, Zinc Response, and What Your Fields are Telling You

Here's something most people don't talk about: When 2-3 inches of your bean field turns yellow early in the season, everyone rushes to diagnose it as IDC (Iron Deficiency Chlorosis). But in western Minnesota this year? That yellowing is actually a manganese issue, another biology problem in disguise.

Getting a response to zinc in your starter fertilizer? That's another hint your biology is struggling.

These aren't random problems. They're symptoms of the same underlying issue: your soil's biological system is running on empty.

The Difference Between "Low Cost" and "Low Risk"

Everyone's trying the "here, try this" approach, throwing products at problems and hoping something sticks. But with fertilizer at all-time highs and margins razor-thin, you can't afford to guess.

At Ide Seed, we don't guess. We test your soil and diagnose what's actually happening with your biology. We can prove that WEOC (Water Extractable Organic Carbon) levels keep declining when you're not feeding your soil biology properly. And we can predict that without intervention, your yields will become more inconsistent from field to field, year to year.

There's a crucial difference between "low cost" and "low risk." Using the right product or combination of products based on actual soil testing makes our approach LOW RISK. That's what you need right now: not another gamble, but a proven path forward.

Cost vs. Response: How Biology Increases Free Fertility

Here's what changes people's perspective: Biology doesn't just help your crops, it increases what we call "free fertility." Those nutrients already in your soil that aren't available to your plants? Healthy biology unlocks them.

You've already paid for that fertility. Now it's time to use it.

Will You Change, or Will You Hope Things Change?

As Will Rogers once said, "It isn't what we don't know that gives us trouble, it's what we know that ain't so."

What we "know" about farming (that more fertilizer equals better yields, that soil testing tells the whole story, that biological activity just happens on its own) that's what's getting us in trouble.

Want to learn more about how we're helping farmers across central Minnesota turn difficulty into opportunity? Listen to Nate's conversation on the Crop Cast by BW Fusion podcast , dropping October 10th. With over 30,000 streams, this podcast is where progressive farmers go to learn what's really working in the field.

Your Next Step

According to Nate, "Being a BW fusion dealer gives us the ability to help producers in a way that no one else can for their soils and families. Especially in this high stress era. We can bring the hope! "

The opportunity is here, hidden in the middle of this year's difficulties. The question remains: Will you change anything?

Your soil is waiting. Your operation and your family is counting on it. And we're here to help you make the change that makes the difference.

Ready to test your soil biology and build a plan that actually works? Contact Ide Seed & Fertilizer today . Because feeding your soil means feeding your future.

3 Years of Soil Data That Will Change Everything

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 20:41:07 GMT

Let's talk about the elephant in every farm office right now: $950 per ton phosphate. And that's just phosphate - consider what potash and urea prices are going to be, not even considering tariffs.

If that number doesn't make your stomach drop, you're either not paying attention or you've already given up. That's nearly double what fertilizer should cost.

And here's the harsh reality: half the farmers in our area didn't put on P and K last year. Not because they wanted to try something new. Because they couldn't afford it or they needed to make the cash flow work better for the banker.

But what if we told you that was actually the best thing that could have happened to them?

The Solution Has Been Under Your Feet All Along

You're scared. We get it.

You're thinking, "How am I going to get nutrients to my crops if I can't afford fertilizer?" You've been taught that P and K applications are the only way to feed your plants. That without them, your yields will tank and your soil will be depleted.

Here's where everything changes. Just like AI went from science fiction to reality, we now have proof that challenges everything you thought you knew about soil fertility.

The Proof: Data That Defies Logic

For three years, we have been collecting data on nutrient availability (ppm) from 52 soil points across 16 fields in Eastern McLeod County, Minnesota. These fields haven't applied phosphate since fall of 2021 and they also haven't seen potash since fall of 2022. According to conventional wisdom, the Mehlich scores should be plummeting. These fields should be mining themselves into oblivion.

Instead the data table shows what happened.

Eastern McLeod County Soil Test Results

52 GPS Points Across 16 Fields - 3 Year Comparison

Read that again. Without applying fertilizer for 3+ years , phosphorus levels INCREASED at 59.6% of test points. The H3A phosphorus score (which measures what's actually available to plants) went up at 96.1% of locations.

How is this possible?

The Research is Telling

A recent UMN study revealed something that should change how we think about fertilizer forever. According to their research:

"There is more P and K in the soil than is indicated by the soil test."

Think about that. The soil tests we've been using to justify massive fertilizer purchases don't even show all the nutrients that are actually there. The study goes on to explain that P and K availability in the soil is dynamic over time, and "the checkbook approach to calculating fertilizer needs is far more stringent than is needed to manage the nutrients. In most cases, being close is good enough."

Even more telling: "The probability that fertilizer will increase yield decreases with increasing soil test values."

The U of M has also been clear that "the conversion of N to nitrate is biological in nature." They've been saying for years that we have plenty of nutrients in our soil. We just can't access them. Those nutrients are locked up, unavailable to plants without the right biological activity.

This is where products like BW Meltdown come into play. It's not magic. It's biology.

BW Meltdown contains specialized microbes and organic acids that convert unavailable nutrients into forms plants can actually use. Think of it as unlocking the bank vault of nutrition that's already in your soil.

BW Prime works alongside this process , enhancing the biological activity and creating synergistic effects that accelerate nutrient availability. When you combine these products, you're not just hoping for mineralization. You're guaranteeing it.

How to Increase Your NUE

Your Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) is directly tied to your soil's Water Extractable Organic Carbon (WEOC) levels. When WEOC levels drop, your nitrogen simply isn't cycling properly. That nitrogen you applied? It's sitting there, unavailable to your plants.

BW Meltdown addresses this by raising WEOC levels and improving the mineralization process that releases nitrogen when your crops need it most. Higher WEOC means your soil biology is actively converting organic matter into plant-available nutrients throughout the growing season. The result is better NUE without adding more nitrogen.

This is why fields using a biological approach maintain yields even when cutting back on nitrogen applications. The biology does the work that extra fertilizer used to do, but more efficiently and at a fraction of the cost.

Every Year Has Its Stress, But Now You Have A Solution

This year alone, we've had close to 20 inches of rain in some areas. We can't predict the weather, but we need to accept reality: every year will have some stress event. The question isn't whether stress will come. It's whether your nutrients will be available when it does.

When soils are waterlogged, traditional fertilizers become even less available. But biological solutions keep working, even in low-oxygen conditions. That's why fields using BW Meltdown stayed greener while others turned yellow. The biology kept cycling nutrients when chemistry couldn't.

The 45Z Tax Credit: Getting Paid to Use Less

Here's where it gets even better. Remember that 45Z tax credit we've been talking about? It's not theoretical anymore. It's here.

And here's the kicker: you don't even need to sell to an ethanol plant . You can sell these credits to someone else.

The exciting part? This isn't just about corn anymore. Soybean biodiesel has been added to the program. Every bushel of beans you grow with reduced fertilizer inputs can generate tax credits too. By using biological products instead of massive fertilizer applications , you're:

Reducing your input costs
Maintaining or increasing yields
Generating $20-40/acre in tax credits
Improving your NUE

The Bottom Line: You Can't Afford NOT to Change

At $950/ton for phosphate, the old way of farming is broken . But here's the truth: that price shock might be the push we all needed.

The data from Eastern McLeod County proves what we've been saying all along:

Your soil has the nutrients
Biology can unlock them
You can reduce or eliminate P and K applications
Your yields won't suffer—they might even improve
You'll get paid through tax credits for doing it

Your Next Move

Every year you wait is another year of:

Overpaying for fertilizer you don't need
Missing out on $20-40/acre in tax credits
Fighting against biology instead of working with it
Hoping prices come down instead of taking control

The science has changed. The proof is here. The only question left is: are you ready to change with it?

Stop hoping fertilizer prices drop. Start unlocking what you already have.

Want These Results on Your Fields?

Building the Bridge to Modern Agriculture

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 18:25:53 GMT

As many of you manage household budgets while your partners are busy in the fields this season, you might be wondering: What if there's a better way to approach our farm's future?

The Connection Between Our Kitchen Table and Our Fields

Have you ever noticed the parallel between what we're learning about health in our kitchens and what's happening in our fields?

Just as we've discovered the importance of gut health and microbiomes for our family's well-being, a similar revolution is quietly taking place in agriculture. The health of our soil's microbiome directly impacts the quality of what grows in it—and, ultimately, what ends up on our tables.

A Bridge, Not a Demolition

Let's be clear: this isn't about dismantling conventional agriculture. It's about building a bridge to something better.

In a recent episode of CropCast , they discussed how you can't just upturn conventional agriculture; it is a slow process to make change. The role of producers today is to be open-minded and receptive to new information.

The truth is that we can't keep doing things exactly as our parents and grandparents did. The landscape and the soil have changed. And our understanding of how it all works together has evolved dramatically.

Why Our Soil Isn't What it Used to Be

So what's changed? Why can't we just keep farming the way we always have?

The answer lies in two major shifts in modern agriculture that have fundamentally altered our soil's composition and health:

The loss of crop diversity : Our grandparents typically rotated through multiple crops, each feeding different soil microbes. Today's corn-soybean rotations don't provide the diverse nutrition that soil biology needs.

The separation of livestock from crops : Removing animals from crop farms removed more than just manure—it eliminated a complete package of microbes that naturally replenished soil life. The farther we get away from manure usage, the worse our soil health becomes.

These changes have depleted essential soil elements and weakened the very biological processes that make nutrients available to plants. This is why simply adding more synthetic fertilizer often yields diminishing returns.

When Soil Gets "Lazy"

When we continuously apply synthetic fertilizers without nurturing the soil biology, the microbes in our soil essentially become "lazy." As one Sean Nettleton explained on CropCast : "If we are adding a lot of synthetic fertilizer to the soil, eventually our microbes become lazy because we aren't doing the things to stimulate them to release the enzymes in the soil that release nutrients."

Take Nitrogen fixers for example. These beneficial microorganisms naturally convert atmospheric nitrogen into forms plants can use— but only when they need to . When synthetic nitrogen is abundant, they shut down this critical function. The soil microbiome becomes reliant on these external inputs rather than performing its natural nutrient cycling processes.

It's not that fertilizer is bad—conventional agriculture has fed billions for good reason. But over time, our soils have developed a dependency on these inputs, which can lead to diminishing returns and require increasingly more product to achieve the same results.

By pulling back, you aren't going to see results overnight. However, over time, you will start to see the microbiome in your soil and the biodiversity change.

Your Soil Health Needs

Diversity Matters: Your soil needs diversity in its microbiome
Balance is key: Too much of any one nutrient creates imbalances elsewhere
Prevention over treatment: Addressing the root cause is always more effective than treating symptoms later on
Customized approach: What works for one field may not work for another

The data from our One-Field Challenge confirms this: high-yielding areas ofte n show better WEOC (Water Extractable Organic Carbon) levels —a key indicato r of soil microbial health—even when P and K levels are lower than in poor-performing areas.

Why This Matters to Your Family

As someone who helps manage the farm's financial health and long-term planning, you understand the value of looking beyond quick fixes to sustainable solutions that build resilience over time.

When we prioritize and nurture the microbiome in our soil:

Crops become naturally more resilient to disease, stress, and unpredictable weather patterns
The quality and nutritional value of what we grow improves
Dependency on expensive inputs gradually decreases
Long-term soil productivity and farm sustainability increase

This approach isn't just about better yields for next season—it's about building a stronger, more economically sustainable operation that can weather challenges and thrive for generations to come.

Taking the First Step Together

The journey toward healthier soil doesn't happen overnight. But you don't have to figure it out alone.

At Ide Seed & Fertilizer, we've spent years researching and testing biological approaches that work specifically in local soils. We understand the balance between maintaining productivity today while building soil health for tomorrow.

It isn't about being anti-chemical, but we need to heal the soil we have and do conventional farming better. It's about taking what we're already doing and making it better—addressing root causes rather than just applying band-aids.

Ready to learn more about how biological approaches can bridge the gap between conventional agriculture and a healthier farm? Contact us today to discuss how we can develop a customized plan that works with your farm's unique needs and goals.

You are there for your family. We are there for you.

We're ready to help you and your farm's future!

The Secret is Out about Soil Biology

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 14:43:09 GMT

If you've been following agricultural trends, you might have noticed something remarkable happening. At the 2025 Commodity Classic —the nation's largest farmer-led agricultural show—one breakout session shattered attendance records with over 1,000 farmers packing the room and spilling into hallways.

What was the topic that drew this unprecedented crowd? Soil biology.

When Everyone Else is Doing It....

There are four key reasons why farmers make significant business changes. While we won't discuss all of them today, but let's focus on one reason: people will adopt new practices when they see others doing it .

The overwhelming turnout at the 2025 Commodity Classic sends a clear message: soil biology testing isn't just for early adopters anymore. The secret is out, and mainstream agriculture is taking notice.

As Sean Nettleton of BW Fusion shared during his packed presentation on the "5 Stages of Farming Success," understanding the biological processes in your soil is fundamental to unlocking higher yields and optimizing crop performance at every growth stage.

It's Not a Fad—It's the Future.

For years at Ide Seed & Fertilizer, we've been talking about Water Extractable Organic Carbon (WEOC), soil biology, and how these factors directly impact your yield. We've shown the results in drought conditions. We've proven it works when fields are drowning in 30+ inches of rain. We've demonstrated success across every soil type in Central Minnesota.

What we're seeing now isn't a passing fad—it's a nationwide trend that we've been at the forefront of bringing to Minnesota farmers.

Remember the yellow corn crisis of 2024 ? Those challenges exposed what many fields were lacking: proper biological activity to make nutrients available to plants. Even with adequate fertilizer applications, without the right microbial activity, those nutrients remain locked up and unavailable.

The Time to Act is Now

The University of Minnesota confirms what we've been saying all along: " The conversion of N to nitrate is biological in nature. " Without healthy microbes, those nutrients just sit there, regardless of how much fertilizer you apply.

Our research with the One-Field Challenge revealed something that contradicts conventional wisdom: in over 80% of cases, high-yielding areas showed lower P and K levels but better WEOC in relation to their CEC levels. This reinforces why soil biology testing is so crucial to understanding the true health of your fields.

Don't Be Left Behind

As more farmers embrace soil biology testing and biological solutions, those who wait risk falling behind. With products like BW Meltdown helping raise WEOC levels and improve nutrient availability, you can join this agricultural revolution before your neighbors do.

Think about it: Do you want to be ahead of the curve, or playing catch-up five years from now?

What's Your Next Step?

If the record-breaking attendance at the 2025 Commodity Classic tells us anything, it's that the interest in soil biology is exploding. Farmers across the country recognize that the next frontier in agriculture isn't just about what you apply to your fields—it's about understanding and nurturing what's already there.

The question isn't whether you should start testing your soil biology— it's whether you can afford not to.

Ready to Join the Movement?

Research & Development: The Key to Farming's Future

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 16:51:54 GMT

Why R&D Matters in Agriculture

Every successful business, from tech startups to manufacturing giants, invests in research and development. Why should your farm be any different? As we kick off 2025, it's time to think about your farm's R&D strategy – and it starts with understanding what's happening beneath your feet.

The harsh reality of 2024's yellow corn across central Minnesota taught us a valuable lesson: what worked yesterday might not work tomorrow. But here's the good news: you don't need a massive research budget or complicated trials to start improving your operation. You just need 20 acres and a willingness to learn.

The One-Field Challenge

That's where our One-Field Challenge comes in. By testing both high and low-yielding areas within the same field , we've uncovered something fascinating: in over 75% of cases, the high-yielding areas actually showed lower P and K levels but better WEOC (Water Extractable Organic Carbon) in relation to their CEC (cation exchange capacity) levels. This contradicts conventional wisdom and highlights why soil biology testing is so crucial.

Don't Wait to Innovate

Think about it this way: waiting 5-10 years to start testing your soil biology isn't just falling behind – it's choosing to farm with outdated information. It's like trying to compete in today's market with technology from the 1990s. The science of soil health has evolved, and so should our approach to farming.

Getting Started is Easy

Ready to start your farm's R&D program?

Here's what you need to do:

Choose a test field (about 20 acres)
Identify your best and worst-performing areas
Let us help you conduct comprehensive soil biology testing
Use the results to develop a customized plan for your specific soil conditions

You can't afford to let another season pass without understanding what is really driving your fields.

The future of farming isn't just about working harder - it's about farming smarter with biology on your side.

Ready to take the One-Field Challenge?

This is the best next step to creating an R&D strategy for your farm.

Real Results from Your Neighbor's Fields

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 21:44:15 GMT

You wanted proof.

You said, "Show me it works when it's dry." We did.

Then you said, "Show me it works when it's wet." Well, here it is.

Beyond Excuses: What 30 Inches of Rain Really Taught Us

Did you drive anywhere south of US Highway 212 this summer? Then you saw it. Miles of yellow corn telling a story you couldn't miss—even at 60 mph. You didn't need to be a farmer to know there was a serious problem in Central Minnesota this year.

But here's what's remarkable: Even with over 30 inches of rain pounding our fields from April through July, some fields stayed green. Some yields stayed strong—and the data shows why.

The Numbers Don't Lie

Consider Goettl Farms' experience. In a year marked by challenging conditions, they achieved:

More than 60 additional bushels per acre on corn
Over 10 extra bushels per acre on soybeans
These results came without excessive commercial fertilizer application

But here's what really got our attention: When farmers combined two or more products, that's when the synergistic effects kicked in. That's when we saw the real "wow" factor . The products working together created results greater than the sum of their parts.

Still not convinced? Look at a few of these results across Central Minnesota, even with 30+ inches of rain:

Winthrop: Up to 17 more bushels with BW Meltdown
Gibbon: 10-bushel benefit with BW PRIME
Lamberton: 12-bushel benefit with BW 401 & BLG
Cologne: 6-buschel benefit from QLF 7-21-3

In Henderson, side-by-side trials showed a 65 bushel/acre increase using our complete program approach without increase input costs.

"But My Farm is Different" - Exactly Why You Need This

You're saying your field is different than your neighbor's? Than the farm 15 miles down the road? Then why aren't you doing something different?

Here's what sets us apart: We don't just talk about biology— we prove it works . Through 50+ research projects across Central Minnesota, we've shown results in:

Drought conditions
Soils drowning in 30+ inches of rain
Every soil type in between

And when we combine products? That's when the magic happens. That's when we see those synergistic effects that take yields to the next level.

It's Not One-Size-Fits-All Farming

We don't believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Through biological soil testing and years of local research, we create customized crop nutrition programs that work with your specific conditions. We're not here to replace your current agronomist —we're here to enhance your entire program.

The Truth About Your Soil

Remember how your dad and grandpa used manure? There was a reason.

The University of Minnesota Extension shares, "the conversion of N to nitrate is biological in nature." Without healthy microbes, those nutrients just sit there. These biologicals are essentially "manure in a bottle".

Our research shows that while WEOC (Water Extractable Organic Carbon) levels only decreased by about 10% this year, but many fields were already running on empty. The saturated conditions just exposed what was already there—or rather, what wasn't.

When we provide the correct food source for soil microbes, they do what they're meant to do: make nutrients available to your plants.

What's Your Backup Plan? The Time To Get Educated is NOW

You can't predict the weather. You can't control the markets. But you can prepare your soil to handle whatever comes next.

This isn't about spending more money— it's about reallocating your funds to what actually works . With relief money coming in, you have a choice to make. Will you put it into the same old P and K that left you with yellow corn? Or are you ready to try something that's proven to work - not just in "the 'I' states" but in your neighbor's fields?

It's Show Time: January 28th, 2025

We're done talking. Now it's show time.

Join us for the 3rd annual OH YES YOU CAN Mineralization & Crop Seminar at Crow River Winery in Hutchinson, MN. We're bringing:

Three years of local results
Proof in wet and dry conditions
Real data from real farms
Local farmer panel

Can you afford to miss this? Better question: Can you afford another year like 2024?

The science has changed. The proof is here. The only question left is: Are you ready to change with it?

Don't Let 2024 Happen Again.

Don't Let The 2024 Growing Season Happen Again

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 14:20:26 GMT

Consider 2024 your wake up call to change your mindset.

If you drove anywhere south of US Hwy 12 this summer, you couldn't miss it. The sea of yellow corn across Central Minnesota, eastern South Dakota, and into Iowa told a story that no farmer wanted to tell. You didn't need to be an agronomist or even step foot in a field to know there was a serious problem—this crisis was visible at 55 mph.

But here's what many don't realize: This wasn't just about the weather.

The Real Story Behind 2024's Yellow Corn

Our 2024 research across Central Minnesota has revealed something surprising. Despite the challenging conditions, microbial activity only decreased by 10-15% this year. The real problem? Many growers' soils were already running on empty. After years of moving away from manure application which we can also enhance and traditional crop rotation, nutrient cycling has been left struggling . When the stress hit this summer, there was no buffer left—and no backup plan.

The Numbers Don't Lie

Our recent trials in Central Minnesota are showing remarkable results. On flat black soil, a 20-foot test strip using BW Meltdown showed a 17-bushel advantage. Another biological trial combining BW Fusion carbon food source with 6-24-6 jumped from 214 to 226 bushels per acre.

Even more telling: A grower in Henderson, MN saw a 30-40% yield increase across 60+ test acres during this stressful year. Starting at 155 bushels per acre, the improvement was dramatic—and achieved without spending more per acre .

Why the 2025 OH YES YOU CAN Nutrient Cycling & Crop Seminar is Different

On January 28th, 2025, at Crow River Winery in Hutchinson, MN, we're bringing together groundbreaking data from across the Midwest and Central Minnesota. We're bringing together the results from over 50 research projects conducted right here in Central Minnesota. This isn't theoretical knowledge from somewhere else—these are real results from your neighbors' fields.

Join us, along with our partners from BW, Agronomy365, and QLF to discover how to achieve better results through smarter resource allocation—not bigger spending. That's right. We are showing you how you can spend NOT A PENNY MORE next year, achieve better results, and protect your fields from the unpredictable stress of 2025 .

What You'll Learn:

The shocking results from our "one-field challenge," where higher P and K levels actually yielded worse results than the area of the fields with better biological health
Why certain products work in specific environments (and why they fail in others)
How to develop a customized backup plan for nutrient cycling
The truth about WEOC (Water Extractable Organic Carbon) and why it matters more than ever

Beyond "Here, Try This"

This isn't another sales pitch. Our partnership with Agronomy 365 and their lab has revealed insights that challenge conventional wisdom.

We'll show you:

Why soil testing for biological activity sets successful farmers apart
How to interpret your soil's biological indicators
Real strategies for improving soil health without necessarily spending more money

The Cost of Not Being There

Let's be honest: You're not invincible, and neither are your crops. This year proved that no amount of fertilizer can overcome poor soil biology. Brad Carlson, University of Minnesota Extension Educator shares that the conversion of nitrate into plant-available forms is a biological function . Without healthy soil biology, you're fighting an uphill battle.

So What's Your Backup Plan?

The fact is: You can't afford NOT to have a backup plan for next year. The question is: Will you be ahead of the curve, or behind it?

Don't wait until it's too late. This isn't about spending more money—it's about reallocating your resources more effectively. Join us to learn how to prevent another 2024 and set yourself up for success in 2025 and beyond.

Join Us & Set Yourself Up for Success in 2025

2025 OH YES YOU CAN Crop Seminar

Date : January 28th, 2025

Location : Crow River Winery, Hutchinson, MN

Includes : Complimentary lunch and refreshments

Turning Challenges into Opportunities: Preparing for a Resilient 2025

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 12:23:34 GMT

As harvest wraps up, many growers are reflecting on a tough year with yields that may not meet expectations. At Ide Seed & Fertilizer, we ant to take a moment to acknowledge the challenges you've faced this season. The yellow corn that covered our landscapes tells a story of struggle, but more importantly, it points the way toward a hopeful future.

Every challenge we face in farming is an opportunity to learn and grow. This year's difficulties have highlighted the incredible resilience of the farming community. You've weathered storms, both literal and figurative, and you're still standing strong.

But what if next year could be different?

The Secret Lies Beneath Your Feet

The path to a more resilient future starts with the very soil you stand on. Understanding the health of your soil through indicators like Water Extractable Organic Carbon (WEOC) and soil biology can unlock the potential of your fields.

Imagine a world where your soil works as hard as you do. Where beneficial microbes turn last year's crop residue into this year's plant food. Where your crops are strong enough to withstand whatever Mother Nature throws their way.

This isn't a far-off dream. It is within reach, but requires a shift in your mindset and a willingness to try something new.

We're Your Partners in Progress

As fellow farmers, we understand the risks and rewards of trying something new. That's why we test every product and method we recommend on our own fields first because we believe in providing solutions that truly work. Our approach moves beyond the "Here, try this" mentality, focusing instead on comprehensive soil health strategies.

From products like BW 401 which introduces hardy, low-oxygen tolerant microbes into your soil, to BW Meltdown which enhances nutrient availability, we are here to provide you with the tools that don't just mask symptoms but address the root causes of crop stress .

Providing Hope for 2025

We’re excited about what’s on the horizon, and we want you to be a part of it. That’s why we want to invite you to join us for a special event that could change the way you think about growing.

Our 3rd annual OH YES YOU CAN Mineralization & Crop Seminar will be taking place on January 28th, 2025 at Crow River Winery in Hutchinson, MN. Save the date and watch for more details on registration.

This isn’t just another farm meeting. It’s your opportunity to get ahead of the curve and set yourself up for success in 2025 and beyond.

You've always been there for your family.

Now let Ide Seed & Fertilizer be there for you.

Are you ready to build hope for a successful season ahead?

Reuse Previously Purchased Fertilizer & Maximize Nutrient Availability

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 22:22:03 GMT

As we look ahead to the 2025 growing season, many farmers are facing tough decisions about fertilizer application. With some choosing to skip phosphate or potash applications, the question becomes: How can we ensure our crops get the nutrients they need?

The answer lies in making better use of what's already in your soil.

Unlocking Nutrients You've Already Paid For

Nutrient mineralization is the key to unlocking the fertilizer you've already purchased. This process converts nutrients tied up in organic matter into forms that plants can use. BW Meltdown is a product that enhances this natural process, helping your crops access the nutrients already present in your soil but may not be readily available.

Just as lime helps make nutrients more available in low-pH soils, there's another factor we need to consider: Water Extractable Organic Carbon (WEOC) . We've often taken WEOC for granted, but it plays a crucial role in converting nutrients through biological processes. This year's challenges have highlighted the importance of this often-overlooked aspect of soil health.

BW Meltdown is a specialized organic product designed to enhance nutrient availability in your soil. It contains a blend of naturally occurring microbes, organic acids, and nitrogen that work together to convert organic matter into valuable nutrients for your crops. This process improves carbon cycling in your soil, promoting a healthier soil ecosystem and increasing nutrient availability for your plants. BW Meltdown aims to support higher yields and overall crop health.

More Than Just Residue Management

While BW Meltdown does help with residue breakdown, its primary benefit for Minnesota farmers is its ability to make existing nutrients in your soil more accessible to your crops. This is especially crucial when planning to reduce P and K applications in the coming year.

The Benefits of BW Meltdown:

Increasing nutrient value-per-acre by over 64% based on independent research studies
Reducing wear and tear on tillage and planting equipment because of better soil tilth
Minimizing hair-pinning in no-till operations

BW Meltdown doesn't just break down residue; it improves overall soil structure and tilth. This means softer soil that's easier on your equipment. Plus, recent trials have shown that it can be applied in spring along with herbicides, adding flexibility to your operation.

Nutrient Availability in Action: Real Results

To be clear, we're not advocating for eliminating fertilizer. Instead, BW Meltdown offers a way to be more efficient with your fertilizer use. By enhancing nutrient availability, you may be able to maintain or even improve yields while potentially reducing your fertilizer inputs . This approach can help stretch your budget without compromising crop health.

In the maps below, both fields were corn-on-corn with BW Meltdown applied in the identified areas. In the applicated areas, you can see that bushels/acre were increased and moisture levels were decreased. Please note that these maps are for 2023 fields.

This shows that applying BW Meltdown product had a 10-15 bu yield advantage over the non-application and is proving nutriet solubility. Historically, the non-application area has typically seen better yields.

Here you will see how the corn moisture level is 2-3% drier than the non-application by using BW Meltdown products

Looking Ahead to 2025 and Beyond

As we prepare for 2025, remember that adapting your nutrient management strategy doesn't mean starting from scratch. It's about fine-tuning your approach to get the most out of every acre. By improving nutrient availability, you're giving your crops the best chance to thrive, even if you need to cut back on other inputs. BW Meltdown is a tool that can help you do just that, offering a path to potentially better yields and improved soil health.

Ready to see how BW Meltdown

fits into your 2025 strategy?

and build hope for a successful season ahead!

The Research is In: Your Fields Can Thrive and Not Just Survive

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 21:22:11 GMT

In the ever-evolving world of agriculture, staying ahead of the curve isn't just about survival—it's about thriving. At Ide Seed & Fertilizer, we've always said, "Feed your soil. Feed your family." Today, we're excited to share how local research is backing up this philosophy and offering a path to financial stability and improved yields for 2025 and beyond.

The Complexities of Soil Science

Soil isn't as simple as we once thought. As one expert put it, "Soil science is not rocket science—it's much more complicated than that!" Technologies and understanding have advanced at a rapid pace, introducing concepts that weren't even on our radar a decade ago.

Take Water Extractable Organic Carbon (WEOC), for instance. Ten years ago, it was barely mentioned. Now, the University of Minnesota explains that the conversion of nitrate into a form plants can use is a biological function. This shift in understanding is changing how we approach soil health and crop management.

What You See Isn't Always the Full Story

We've all heard the saying, "A picture is worth a thousand words." But in agriculture, pictures can also lead to misleading assumptions. Consider this: we compared the two soybean fields from two different farmers (pictured below).Their soil tests and color were nearly identical, but their yields were significantly different. The quick assumption might be that the soil is lacking something. However, our research tells a different story.

At Ide Seed & Fertilizer, we challenged our growers to participate in the "one-field challenge." We examined two spots in a single field—one high-yielding and one low-yielding. Working with the Agronomy365 lab, we discovered something: in over 75% of cases, the high-yielding areas actually had lower P and K levels but better WEOC in relation to the CEC's (cation exchange capacity). Conversely, the standard lower-yielding areas had higher P and K levels but a lower WEOC/CEC ratio.

These results contradict conventional wisdom. They show that the "more on" approach isn't always the answer. In fact, our research indicates that WEOC levels this year have only decreased by about 10% compared to the last three years. So why all the yellow corn? The answer lies in years of neglecting to feed the WEOC with practices like manure application, leading to critically low levels. This year's harsh conditions finally exposed those issues.

Balancing Nutrients and Feeding Microbes

Our research also helps explain Liebig's Law of the Minimum. By focusing on soil microbes, we can actually even out the nutrients available for the plant, resulting in a more balanced crop with higher yields. This approach is more effective than simply adding more of a specific nutrient that might be limited, especially since the limiting nutrient can change from year to year.

So, how do we build WEOC and feed the microbes? Well, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Like feeding livestock, microbes need a diverse "diet."

Options include:

Cover crops (effective but require time and different management)
Sugar (quick stimulant)
Humic or fulvic acids (slower release)
QLF molasses
BW Fusion products like BW Meltdown

The key is providing a "buffet" of options to ensure your soil biology has what it needs in any given year. This approach makes added fertility more efficient, saves you money, and increases yields.

Easing Stress for 2025 and Beyond

By making soil health a priority, we can lower the risk of poor yields, reduce disease and insect pressure, have more control over stresses, and boost confidence in achieving high yields. Seed genetics have driven the increase in yields in recent years, despite declining WEOC. Imagine the possibilities that would come from combining improved WEOC levels with advanced genetics!

This isn't about spending more on fertilizers next year—it's about reallocating your funds more effectively. By being proactive and investing in your soil health, you're setting the stage for financial stability and improved yields in 2025 and beyond.

Don't let the stress of low yields control you when you have the opportunity to take control of the results. At Ide Seed & Fertilizer, we're here to help you make informed decisions based on solid, local research. Let's work together to get your soil in good health and your farm thriving, not just surviving.

Ready to take the next step?

We're ready to help you turn research into real results in your field.

Will Yellow Corn Change Your Mindset?

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 21:21:07 GMT

The Yellow Corn Crisis Calls for Proactive Soil Management

As you drive across Minnesota right now, chances are you're seeing a lot of yellow corn. This alarming sight isn't just a visual problem—it's a wake-up call for the entire farming community. But what's really causing this, and more importantly, what can we do about it?

The Myth of the "Normal Year"

How often have you heard someone say, "It's not a normal year"? Here's a reality check: when was the last time we had a truly "normal" year? Climate unpredictability is our new normal. So why are we still hoping for ideal conditions instead of preparing for the challenges we're bound to face?

It's All About Availability and Balance

Here's what many farmers don't realize: the nutrients your crops need are likely already in your soil. The problem? They're not in a form readily available to your plants. This is where soil biology comes into play. Microbes are nature's nutrient converters , making those locked-up nutrients accessible to your crops.

To truly grasp why your corn might be turning yellow despite your best efforts, we need to understand Liebig's Law of the Minimum. This principle states that plant growth is controlled not by the total amount of resources available, but by the scarcest resource (the limiting factor). In other words, your crop yield is only as good as your most limiting nutrient or factor. This principle extends beyond NPK to include all growth factors.

Here's why this matters:

Beyond Just Nutrients

Water, sunlight, soil biology, and even stress factors (like pests or flooding) can become limiting factors, even when nutrients seem abundant.

Balance is Key

Excess of one nutrient doesn't compensate for deficiencies elsewhere. In fact, imbalances can further stress plants.

Nutrient Presence vs. Availability

Soil tests might show adequate nutrient levels, but if they're not in a plant-available form, crops can't use them. This is where soil biology becomes crucial.

Microbial Role

Soil microorganisms transform complex compounds into forms plants can absorb. Without a thriving microbial community, nutrient cycling is hindered.

Soil Structure

Good structure, maintained by organic matter and microbial activity, ensures proper water infiltration and root growth, both essential for nutrient uptake.

Understanding these principles helps us see that yellow corn might not just be a nitrogen issue. It could indicate poor soil structure, lack of microbial activity, or other stressors limiting nutrient availability and overall plant health.

The Yellow Corn Phenomenon Explained

So then, why is so much corn turning yellow? It’s not just about nitrogen deficiency. Most nitrogen in fertilizers comes in an inorganic form. In water-saturated soils, oxygen levels plummet, tying up this nitrogen and making it inaccessible to plants. Simply adding more nitrogen might green up your corn temporarily, but it's just a band-aid on a much deeper issue.

Waterlogged soils , like we've seen this year, create a cascade of problems for corn plants. Excess water pushes out oxygen, creating an anaerobic environment that stresses beneficial microbes and plant roots alike. This not only limits the roots' ability to take up nutrients but also leads to nutrient leaching, washing away essential elements like nitrogen before plants can access them.

The Importance of Proactive Management

Here's a crucial point that many farmers overlook: once stress has manifested in the plant, such as yellowing corn, there's often little you can do to fully reverse the damage. Plant stress is cumulative and can have lasting effects on yield potential. This is why being proactive in your soil management is so critical. By the time you see visible signs of stress in your crops, you're already fighting an uphill battle.

This reality underscores the importance of building a resilient soil system that can buffer against stress before it impacts your crops. It's about creating an environment where your plants can thrive, not just survive.

Enter: WEOC

Water Extractable Organic Carbon (WEOC) is a crucial indicator of soil health. The longer your fields have gone without manure application or crop rotation, the lower your WEOC levels are likely to be. Low WEOC means your soil biology is struggling, leading to those yellow corn fields we're seeing everywhere.

Breaking the Cycle: The Power of Proactive Soil Management

Understanding Liebig's Law of the Minimum and the lasting impact of plant stress, we can see that proactive soil management isn't just about adding more fertilizer or reacting to problems as they arise. It's about creating a balanced, resilient system that addresses all potential limiting factors before they can impact your crop. Here's how:

Boost Your Soil's Organic Carbon

Implement practices that increase WEOC levels. This creates a more resilient soil ecosystem, improving overall soil structure and microbial habitat.

Embrace Crop Rotation

Adding a third crop like wheat or alfalfa to your rotation can significantly improve WEOC levels and break pest cycles. Different crops feed different microbes, enhancing overall soil health and reducing the risk of any one factor becoming limiting.

Introduce Low-Oxygen Tolerant Microbes

Use products like BW 401 , which contains microbes that can function in low-oxygen environments, helping your soil biology thrive even in waterlogged conditions. This ensures nutrient cycling continues even under stress.

Enhance Nutrient Availability and Support Plant Health

Consider using BW Meltdown, a blend of nutrients and beneficial microorganisms that enhance nutrient availability and overall soil health. In challenging soil conditions, QLF Foliar can provide direct support to plant health, stress resistance through foliar application, and provide energy for the plant.

Focus on Mineralization

Healthy soil biology promotes better nutrient mineralization, making more nutrients readily available to your crops and reducing the likelihood of any one nutrient becoming a limiting factor.

Are you Ready to Change Your Thinking?

"This is what we've always done" is a phrase that's holding back agricultural progress. What's it going to take to get you to think differently? Remember, people change for three reasons:

They're trying to better themselves
They're desperate
They're going along with their neighbors

Right now, with fields of yellow corn staring us in the face, which category do you fall into?

So, now what?

While it's too late to reverse yellowing corn this season, now is the perfect time to be proactive for next year. Start planning to increase your soil's WEOC levels and improve its overall biology. We're providing the tools to manage your fields more effectively— are you ready to use them ?

Remember, proactive soil management and the right products can build resilience into your farming system, preparing you for whatever challenges nature brings.

It's time to stop reacting and start preparing. Your soil—and your future crops—will thank you.

Ready to revolutionize your soil management?

and prepare for a more resilient future!

The Facts About Carbon Intensity Scoring for Farmers

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 17:43:42 GMT

Let's Get the Facts Straight about CI Scores

Myth: In order to geta a CI (Carbon Intensity) score, you have to raise a cover crop.

Fact: It is not required for farmers to plant a cover crop in order to obtain a CI score.

Getting Education on Carbon Intensity Scoring

It's time to get educated on carbon intensity (CI) scoring . No more relying on hearsay or rumors from friends or acquaintances. Farmers need to start thinking for themselves instead of relying on unverified information. We’ve said it before, and we'll reiterate : CI scores are here to stay.

The demand for products with a lower carbon footprint, moving toward carbon net zero, is being driven by the current generation. The legislation being passed is bipartisan, and multiple industries, including aviation, oil, politicians, and farmers, are all working toward the same goal of reducing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. The benefit to farmers is that by getting on board, you can start receiving premiums in the form of 45Z tax credits.

Addressing Concerns: Bundling and Flexibility

One of the largest concerns farmers currently have is regarding bundling. The current GREET model guidance states that CI scores can be reduced by 5 points by bundling no-till farming and cover crop planting and a reduction of 10 points if enhanced-efficiency nitrogen fertilizer is used. Unfortunately, even farmers dedicated to reducing GHG emissions and lowering their CI score might face challenges that may inhibit them from using all of the outlined practices.

Everyone has the ability to lower their CI score, but as farmers, we all face different challenges across each state or region. We need the freedom to overcome these challenges and still be able to lower CI scores. So, the idea of bundling has to be reconsidered, and this model needs to be modified. What can you do? Contact your local legislators to discuss how you need the freedom and ability to lower your CI score as an individual farmer rather than being dictated how to do so.

The Bigger Picture: Sustainability and Consumer Demand

This initiative has more to it than just ethanol. The current generations of millennials (the largest generation group) and Gen Z are further dedicated to sustainability and taking action regarding climate change. How are they making a difference? These two generations have been found to be 27 percent more likely to purchase products from brands that show dedication to sustainability. This is why more industries than ever are taking a step in that direction. What does that mean for you as a farmer? It just means that right now, ethanol (and soon-to-be soybeans) is where change is happening.

The Aviation Industry and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

A large driver of this initiative is in the aviation industry. The airline industry has publicly pledged to be net-zero carbon by 2050 . While they plan to implement other practices to eliminate emissions, a large percentage ( 65 percent ) will come from Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). SAF produced from ethanol can significantly reduce GHG emissions. However, US corn ethanol does not currently have a low enough carbon intensity score to qualify. Sitting at a CI score of roughly 55, SAF requires a score of 25 or lower to qualify.

This is where farmers need to start getting certified CI scores that will begin to aid in lowering the scores of ethanol plants to get a lower score that will qualify. Similar to how the animal and dairy industry needed to initiate animal husbandry standards across the board, CI scores will be similar to that for the grain industry, so be ready for the paperwork.

The Importance of SAF for the Corn Industry

So why are we putting all of our eggs in the SAF basket? Well, according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the United States is no longer the leading exporter of corn . Countries are taking their business elsewhere, like Brazil, which has risen to the top in corn exporting. Therefore, as an industry, we can't rely solely on exportation to keep corn prices higher. SAF will need to use our product to help maintain good corn prices.

So, how can you get educated?

On June 18th, the Minnesota Soil Health Coalition is hosting a free lunch and workshop to learn more about carbon intensity scoring, soil health principles to reduce your scores, and how to be ready to sell your low-carbon grain for premiums. This is going to be a great event to get a baseline understanding of CI scores and get all of your questions answered.

Unlock Profitability: Lower Your CI Score

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 18:34:58 GMT

If you thought all of this talk about Carbon Intensity (CI) scores was eventually going to be a fleeting thought, you’re wrong. CI scoring is not going away. In fact, you will only be hearing more about them in the coming months leading up to January 2025. So it’s important to get educated now so you can be ready when the opportunity arises.

CI Scores and Their Significance

The standard CI score for corn sits at 29.1g GHG/MJ, a baseline assigned to uncertified fields nationwide. Soon, every load will carry a county default score unless your field is CI-certified. Consider regional differences: Minnesota's superior soil health yields higher bushels/acre, naturally lowering CI scores. Higher yields translate to lower CI scores, boosting profits and premium opportunities.

Beyond yields, other best practices like cover cropping, reduced-till methods, and manure application also impact CI scores. Our focus? Helping farmers lower fertilizer usage. You may wonder, "How can I maintain yields while using less fertilizer?" It's not only achievable but already underway. We've got the evidence to prove it.

Transform Your Practices with Ide Seed & Fertilizer

Through the use of biologicals, we can increase the health of your soil , providing it with the nutrients it needs to increase fertility and allow the plant to start taking in the fertilizer you are applying to it. This is your reminder that more fertilizer is not better . You can continue to add and add fertilizer to your fields, but it will just sit in your dead soil because the nutrients are not available for the plant to take and use. Our approach ensures every nutrient counts, maximizing efficiency and profitability.

Embrace Change and Opportunity

The time for action is now. Things are changing—be at the forefront and ready when they take effect. Be willing to change your practices and mindset. If you don’t believe it, call us, and we’ll show you the proof. At Ide Seed & Fertilizer, we are farmers, too. We aren’t just using these products in our customers’ fields; we are also implementing these practices and products in our own fields.

If you are ready to learn more, join us on June 18 from 9:00 - 2:30 pm at Jackpot Junction Casino and Hotel in Morton, MN, for a FREE lunch and workshop by the Minnesota Soil Health Coalition to learn about low-carbon farming and how soil health principles will reduce your CI score. With panels including ethanol and biofuel industry representatives, as well as Minnesota Soil Health Coalition farmers, you can be sure to get all of your questions answered and your farm's baseline CI score for FREE ! Mitchell Hora from Continuum Ag and the host of The Topsoil Podcast will be the keynote speaker. We hope to see you there!

Carbon Intensity: Time to Get Educated

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 13:01:16 GMT

John Wooden said, “When opportunity comes, it's too late to prepare.”

Well, folks, opportunity is on its way, so you better start preparing for it now. When it comes to carbon intensity scoring, it sounds political and controversial, but it’s business. Carbon intensity scoring was derived from the Inflation Reduction Act of August 2022 in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas pollution and increase carbon storage in soils and trees. It’s time to get educated on this matter to understand how it will affect your current and future production strategy.

While it may seem that ethanol plants are driving this, they are not. It is actually being driven by the food industry. The future is this: just like today, when you see non-GMO, cage-free, and free-range stickers on food packaging, the future will have CI scores on that packaging as well. Current generations, including millennials and GenZ, share a much higher affinity for sustainable food practices than GenX and the Baby Boomer generation.

So what is carbon intensity?

Carbon Intensity (CI) is a measure of the carbon-based emissions it takes to produce something. In this case, it is the amount of energy in a single bushel of grain. The more it takes, the higher the carbon intensity. This is a score generated using the GREET model. These scores are assigned to bushels of grain and measured in grams of greenhouse gases per megaJoule of ethanol energy. Looking for more information? Mitchell Hora does a great job breaking it down on the TopSoil Podcast .

Currently, the standard CI score for corn is 29.1g GHG/MJ. This means that if you haven't had your fields CI certified for a different score, the current score on them is 29.1. This is a national average, and potentially, your fields could have a lower (and more desirable) score, just based on the practices you are currently using for production. For example, bushels with a CI score of 0.0 are considered carbon neutral.

What is the incentive for farmers?

Starting for biofuel produced on or after January 1, 2025, a value will be provided to CI-certified grains entering the ethanol plants. Ethanol plants that bring in grains with lower CI scores will receive considerable tax credits. So what’s in it for producers? Moving forward, these premiums (potentially more than 50% of the credit) would be shared with producers, encouraging them to implement practices that will lower their overall carbon emissions. This puts farmers in the driver’s seat, maintaining an equity between risk and reward.

Through the Inflation Reduction Act, CI scores have now been assigned a value. Farmers will be able to turn their farm data into money by connecting it to how much their farms produce. This is not considered “just another carbon program”. There are no commitments, and farmers are getting paid based on their current farming practices.

How do I lower my CI score?

Why settle for average? With the national average CI score sitting at 29.1, you might already have a lower score without changing your current practices.

Some of these practices include:

Planting a cover crop
Having overall higher yields
Implementing reduced-till or no-till practices
Applying manure
Reduction - fertilizer, fuel, etc

In order for your score to be technically lowered and receive higher premiums, you must get a CI-certified score .

What if we told you there was a way to get a lower CI score by using less fertilizer and not spending any extra money? Well, there is. It's called nutrient solubility . You have the fertilizer in your soil, but the nutrients need to be unlocked. We can do this through the use of biologicals .

Ready to use less fertilizer

and get higher yields?

It’s happening. Don’t believe us? We’ve got proof.

Fertility vs. Fertilizer

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 21:05:34 GMT

Plant Tissue Testing: From Skepticism to Success

In the world of agricultural technology, new ideas often outpace the tools needed to fully realize their potential. Take plant tissue testing, for instance. It's a method that's been around for a while, but only recently has it become accurate and dependable.

Even with these improvements, many farmers are still unsure. They have tried similar things before and haven't seen good results. But when partnered with the right company—like Ide Seed & Fertilizer—their doubts disappear. They start seeing real returns on their investment.

Understanding Fertilizer vs. Fertility

Let's talk about the difference between fertilizer and fertility.

Just because you put fertilizer on the soil doesn't mean the plant will use it all. Sure, adding more might help, but what really matters is what the plant can absorb.

Think back to the old days of farming, when every family had a farm with animals. Back then, these animals played a big role in keeping the soil healthy. But as farming got more advanced, we started using more synthetic fertilizers to keep up with higher crop yields. So, how do we use less fertilizer while still getting good results?

Innovative Partnerships for Greater Yield

That's where Ide Seed & Fertilizer comes in. By teaming up with BW-Fusion and QLF , we are using natural solutions that not only boost crop yields but also encourage helpful microorganisms to grow in the soil. This means better returns for farmers. And our success isn't just talk—we've got NCGA results to show for it.

Our unique program for farmers proves our dedication to innovation. When we compare our results to others, it's clear that our customers are getting better yields. And even though they might start with soil that's already pretty good, they're still using less nitrogen and getting great results. The graphs below show Ide Seed & Fertilizer customers against national results from AgriGold .

Embracing Change: Efficiency Over Excess

Our approach goes against the idea that more fertilizer is always better. We focus on using the right nutrients efficiently. And it works. Our results show that we're changing the game when it comes to farming.

In an industry where new ideas are often met with skepticism, Ide Seed & Fertilizer is leading the way. Our products aren't just hype—they're a real change for the better. If you need proof before you're convinced, just take a look at what we've achieved .

Ready to join us on the journey to smarter farming?

Get in touch with us today

and see the difference for yourself!

Challenging the Status Quo in Agriculture

heidi@vimm.com (Heidi Arndt) — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 15:53:23 GMT

Embracing Biological Solutions for Sustainable Crop Management

In the realm of agriculture, it's all too easy to fall into the trap of "same old, same old" thinking. But as the saying goes, the same old thinking will always equal the same old results. That's why it's time to challenge the status quo and embrace a new approach—one that prioritizes the biological aspect of raising crops.

We work with Agronomy 365 and their lab because we're on a mission to revolutionize the way people think about crop management. Instead of relying on the tired old "Here, try this" approach, we're inviting farmers and agricultural professionals to join us in understanding the vital importance of biology in agriculture.

So, what exactly do we mean by the biological aspect of crop management? It's about more than just throwing fertilizers and pesticides at a problem and hoping for the best. It's about understanding the intricate relationships between soil health, plant biology, and environmental factors, and harnessing this knowledge to achieve sustainable and efficient crop production.

Helping farmers on their journey

To help farmers on this journey, we challenge them to delve into the WEOC or Biological actuality of their soil on one field. To guide this exploration, we've crafted seven key questions:

How does your product move away from the "Here, try this" approach?
What should the pH of the water be?
What is WEOC?
What should my WEOC level be to use your BIOLOGICAL?
What team do you have?
Is your product a 1/2 rate?
How do I keep out oxidative stress from my corn and beans?

By asking these questions and seeking answers, farmers can gain a deeper understanding of their soil and its biological dynamics, paving the way for more targeted and effective solutions.

Why focus on biology?

The facts speak for themselves. In agriculture, structure trumps nutrition, and understanding the biological health of soil and plants is crucial for achieving optimal yields. For example, as shown above in R1 corn, oxidative stress can manifest as oblong "football" shapes. Instead, we prefer no brown or dull green color. By addressing the underlying biological factors, farmers can mitigate these issues and promote healthier, more resilient crops.

Moreover, we must distinguish between soil health and soil fertility. While soil fertility focuses on nutrient levels, soil health encompasses a broader spectrum, including physical, chemical, and biological aspects. Just as a stool needs three legs to stand, soil health requires a balanced combination of these factors to function optimally.

This is where Ide Seed and Fertilizer stands apart from other companies, with their “Have to Try This” with our affiliation with Agronomy 365 and their lab. Instead of guessing if your soil needs sugars, humic and fulvic acid, etc, we focus on a product that powers the microbe activity to release the nutrients to the plant. We ultimately want the equation of bacteria and fungi to be 1 to 1.

Bacteria's Job:

Decompose organic matter
Improve soil structure and moisture migration
Recycling of soil nutrients
Water recycling

Fungi's Job:

Helps retain most nutrients and are essential in protecting the plant from disease and predators
It helps with water dynamics
Nutrients cycling
Disease suppression

What's holding you back?

Is it the fear of trying something new or the reluctance to admit that there's more to learn? We believe that continuous improvement is key to success in agriculture. That's why we are offering comprehensive soil testing services, evaluating over 70 metrics to provide farmers with actionable insights for better crop management.

Our approach is rooted in the understanding that biological activity drives the cycle of soil health and fertility. By harnessing the power of biology, we can unlock the full potential of our agricultural systems and pave the way for a more sustainable future.

So, are you ready to challenge the status quo and embrace a new era of agriculture? Let's work together to solve problems, find solutions, and cultivate a brighter future for agriculture.

Physical + Chemical + Biological = Soil Health.

Don't Miss This Offer!

$200/per field (70+ metrics will be evaluated)

PTI Research Farm- In Pursuit Of Maximum ROI

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 18:40:47 GMT

Disclaimer: This article was first published on QLF's blog on June 20, 2023. Visit qlf.com for more information.

When you talk to a farmer and ask them if they can name other farmers who are pushing the outer limits when it comes to yield, they might name several people. People like Randy Dowdy, David Hula, Kip Cullers and maybe even Dan Luepkes might be some of the farmers they would name.

One person we would add to the list is Jason Webster, Precision Planting Agronomist and director of the Precision Technical Institute or the “PTI Farm” in Pontiac, Illinois. Jason and his team at PTI are working to push the envelope when it comes to crop yield but with a little different spin on the issue. Asking themselves, how do we maximize our return on investment (ROI)? PTI started in 2018 with 200 acres along I-55 in Pontiac, Illinois, and has since grown to 400 acres with a shop and meeting space, grain bins, and a pond for collecting water that is recycled back for use in the fields.

PTI is a hands-on research farm where industry people come to learn about some of the latest ideas that the engineers at Precision Planting have come up with that can be used to improve farming practices. During the summer, the public is invited to come to tour the research farm. PTI allows visitors to come and test drive tractors and planters to see how seed is placed or how liquid fertilizers are applied at different locations in and around the furrow. They also give visitors the chance to go around to see the 400 acres of different trial plots where different products are being tested to see how they will affect yield.

QLF Agronomy has been involved with the PTI Farm from the beginning. Working with Jason Webster and his team to trial and evaluate Liquid Carbon-Based Fertilizers (L-CBF). With so much interested in sugar products, and carbon, this relationship was win-win for QLF and PTI. Today, QLF Agronomy’s Liquid Carbon Based Fertilizer products such as LCBF BOOST and Amino 15 are used at several different times and locations to help maximize ROI.

Throughout the research farm, there are both short-term and long-term trials to see how different cropping or tillage practices will affect yield. Some of these trials are set to run for as long as 10 years. The trials cover a variety of different farming practices including strip-till, cover crops, strip cropping, and water efficiency through drip irrigation.

At the end of the year, all the trial plots are harvested and the data is collected, analyzed, and published in a book that is available through your Precision Planting dealer. For the past two winters, Jason and his team have gone on tour throughout the United States to share how the growing season went and what trials did the best. The winter tour also gives a chance for industry people to ask questions about the trials giving them a chance to learn what went well, what did not work out quite as well as they hoped, and how this trial data can apply to their farms. After all the data is collected, a Top 10 List of the trial plots that had the highest ROI is put together. Many times, the trial plots that made it into the Top 10 were not necessarily the highest-yielding trial plots that gave the highest ROI. Most likely you will hear Mr. Webster referring to profitability, and how he would rather have an ROI of $400 per acre versus a corn yield of 400 bushels per acre, stressing the agronomics of taking an ROI no matter how big or small every time.

Nutrient Use Efficiency By Looking At Soil Minerals Availability

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 18:30:01 GMT

Disclaimer: This article was first published on QLF's blog on June 20, 2023, written by Greg Clark, QLF Agronomy Field Research Agronomist. Visit qlf.com for more information.

Variations for plant growth and development and mineral nutrient availability for plants are known to be influenced by genetic and physiological control and are altered by plant interactions with environmental variables and quality-grade commercial fertilizers. The uptake of minerals by plants is heavily dependent on developing high-yielding cultivars. Identification of traits such as mineral absorption, cellular transport, and mineral mobilization in plant cultivars can enhance fertilizer use efficiency, which has been documented in QLF Agronomy replicated trials.

Plant growth and development depend on their ability to sequester all mineral nutrients from the soil. Plants often encounter considerable challenges in attaining an adequate quantity of these mineral nutrients to meet the requirements of cellular progressions due to their relative immobility. Nutrient deficiency can also lead to reduced overall soil biodiversity since plants serve as the manufacturers that support most food webs.

Over the past several years, agricultural industries have been focused on the Nitrogen [N] portion for improving soil and plant efficiency. However, we cannot forget the importance of the remaining primary and secondary nutrients. This research report highlights how Liquid Carbon-Based Fertilizers [L-CBF] not only capitalize on N soil accessibility but also unlock the remaining primary and secondary nutrients as well.

QLF Agronomy field research has continued to demonstrate that L-CBF has increased the biological soil activity as a source of available carbon [C] supplying energy within the soil system. But what about improving soil minerals available for plants? Two corn trials were established from 2020 to 2021 in Illinois. The trials were established at an independent third-party research facility in Martinsville, Illinois [80 miles southeast of Champaign, Illinois]. The objectives of the trials were to evaluate absolute growth rate change by determining if L-CBF products applied as broadcast and side-dress applications improved soil mineral availability in corn via soil test [9-inch depth].

QLF Agronomy Research compared a blend of 10% L-CBF BOOST™ 4-0-3-2 S [4 GPA] and 90% Urea Ammonium Nitrate, 28% [UAN 36 GPA], as opposed to a full rate of UAN 28% [40 GPA]. The data demonstrated that the QLF L-CBF treatment applied at broadcast [before planting] and again at side dress [Y-Drop at V5 corn growth stage] improved soil minerals availability by improving the absolute growth rate among minerals at Martinsville, Illinois. Charts 1 and 2 validate how ten percent of L-CBF BOOST™ inclusion with UAN 28% improved soil mineral availability for corn growth and development while providing the soil microbes with biodiversity at two distinctive application times. Both graphs exhibit that all mineral nutrients have transcended plant availability over the UAN 28% treatment, thus supporting that L-CBF BOOST™ with UAN 28% has the necessary tools to compete effectively in today’s high-demand agricultural sector for minerals uptake and mobilization in corn cultivars.

Chart 1: Broadcast Application [BOOST™+UAN vs UAN].

Chart 2: Side-Dress Application [BOOST™+UAN vs UAN].

Stop Growing Plants and Start Building Crops

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 17:21:22 GMT

If you look at the evolution of corn over time, what started as maize or teosinte in Mexico has evolved into the current day plant with a cob through breeding and by getting nutrients into the roots and plant.

Higher yields are Possible

Up until the 1960's-70's, only single-cross corn existed. But with new breeding technologies, we have developed the current corn plant and greatly improved yields over the last 50 years. However, the ability to change the plant to increase yields has slowed down, especially after proving that 600+ bushel corn is achievable!

So how do we maintain or accelerate this potential? In recent years, we have proven that we can affect the plant with stimulating the plant by providing or accessing certain nutrients to trigger a specific stage.

Just as humans can affect the nutritionally, we can also do this with crops. Think: bad food gives you bad response, feeling slow and sluggish. Good food gives good response and good energy!

We all want a profitable yield, and it's possible!

In order to gain a profitable yield, you need to have a stress-free crop. In the picture below, you can see that a plant with oxidative stress needs to be managed differently than a stalk with more pith and phloem health (on the right). It is good to understand that these plants need to be managed differently, however, the best method is to keep the stressors out of the plant in the first place.

Crop science has accelerated significantly over the last few years. Management products that were considered "snake oils" in the past, are now backed by science that proves the correlation between plant biology, microbes and by using the synergistic relationship between management techniques to achieve higher yields.

How can we achieve this?

Soybeans are the "low hanging fruit" that we can now make sure of the plant's responses to achieve greater ROI. Understandings are coming about that many things can now be done to effect the soybean plant to grow more nodes, branch wider, with deeper roots and bigger stalks to obtain better yields that couldn't be done before..

Up until a few years ago, most farmers followed the "put more on" approach to obtain higher yields. However, because most of the land is rented and not owned, most farmers simply can't afford to follow that management technique because of the slow response time and dollars needed to invest to get those higher yields and remain profitable.

Don't lose hope. The science is here. The key to accessing the current nutrients in your soil and how to apply certain nutrients that will utilize your soil biology for profitable yields.

To explain it simply: Chemistry + Soil Biology, Given Uptake = Yield.

Ready to learn the WHY behind it all?

Sign up to attend the FREE seminar in January!

What the gulls are saying about your field biology

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 20:03:21 GMT

It’s fairly common to see a large flock of gulls behind the the tractor during tillage, and you probably have the messy windshields to prove it! As frustrating as the later problem is to have, it isn’t a bad thing to see those gulls hanging around behind the tiller. However, it’s not just about if they are present but rather, how long they are hanging around.

Why are the gulls in the field?

Gulls are the first indicator of soil biology and health when you are completing fall tillage. As birds that can smell dirt from a mile up in the sky, they know that freshly tilled dirt = earthworms turned up for easy access. Furthermore, as wild birds that don’t know where their next meal might come from, their goal is to scavenge as much as possible out of the field until they are full.

How long should gulls be staying in the field?

Once a flock lands in your field, they should be staying in the field until they are full, or for at least fifteen minutes. Some gull indicators you can watch for as you till are whether they are immediately grabbing worms or looking around and needing to scavenge to find them, as well as, continuing to stay and eat worms in the area or flying off to check out your neighbor’s fields.

If the gulls are hanging out in your field for hours (and turning all of your equipment white), this is a great sign of soil health and testing should prove that, while showing which products to use to enhance your yield. If the gulls are taking off right away after landing in search of a different opportunity, this is an indicator of little to no food for the biology of your soil, meaning it is nearly dead.

How do you get the gulls to stay longer in the field?

When soil biology (and the gulls) are practically non-existent in your field, it means you need to start building WEOC (water-extractable organic carbon). WEOC availability helps to impact the availability of nutrients in the soil, as well as its microbe activity and ability to hold water.

Increasing your WEOC does not mean to start applying nutrients via the “put more on” approach. Rather, let’s take a look at your soil, do some testing, and have a conversation about an approach to build a long-term strategy for your soil’s health to help enhance yields.

Ready to enhance yields and increase ROI next year?

Give us a call to get started today!

ide-seed-and-fertilizer

You’re Sitting on a Fertilizer Mine… You Just Can’t Access It

Hope Isn't a Fertility Program

The Problem No One Wants to Say Out Loud

You Have Two Choices

Option 1 ﻿

Option 2

What If You Already Have What You Need

Open Your Own "Fertilizer Mine"

This is Already Happening.

Quit Farming Like It's 1970.

More < Access

This is Bigger Than Saving Money

When Opportunity Shows Up

The Bottom Line

We're ready when you are!

Hit Your Yield Target with the Right Tools

Tired of all these “soil health” yield-enhancing products on the market?

You have 3 options:

Ready to test your soil biology and build a plan that actually works?

In the Middle of Difficulty Lies Opportunity

The Stress You Can See (And The Stress You Can't)

What Would 10-15 Extra Bushels Mean to Your Family?

The Three-Legged Stool That's Missing a Leg

Yellow Beans, Zinc Response, and What Your Fields are Telling You

The Difference Between "Low Cost" and "Low Risk"

Cost vs. Response: How Biology Increases Free Fertility

Will You Change, or Will You Hope Things Change?

Your Next Step

3 Years of Soil Data That Will Change Everything

The Solution Has Been Under Your Feet All Along

The Proof: Data That Defies Logic

Eastern McLeod County Soil Test Results

52 GPS Points Across 16 Fields - 3 Year Comparison

The Research is Telling

How to Increase Your NUE

Every Year Has Its Stress, But Now You Have A Solution

The 45Z Tax Credit: Getting Paid to Use Less

The Bottom Line: You Can't Afford NOT to Change

Your Next Move

Want These Results on Your Fields?

Building the Bridge to Modern Agriculture

The Connection Between Our Kitchen Table and Our Fields

A Bridge, Not a Demolition

Why Our Soil Isn't What it Used to Be

When Soil Gets "Lazy"

Your Soil Health Needs

Why This Matters to Your Family ﻿

Taking the First Step Together

We're ready to help you and your farm's future!

The Secret is Out about Soil Biology

When Everyone Else is Doing It....

It's Not a Fad—It's the Future.

The Time to Act is Now

Don't Be Left Behind

What's Your Next Step?

Ready to Join the Movement?

Research & Development: The Key to Farming's Future

Why R&D Matters in Agriculture

The One-Field Challenge

Don't Wait to Innovate

Getting Started is Easy

Ready to start your farm's R&D program?

Ready to take the One-Field Challenge?

Real Results from Your Neighbor's Fields

Beyond Excuses: What 30 Inches of Rain Really Taught Us

The Numbers Don't Lie

"But My Farm is Different" - Exactly Why You Need This

It's Not One-Size-Fits-All Farming

The Truth About Your Soil

What's Your Backup Plan? The Time To Get Educated is NOW

It's Show Time: January 28th, 2025

Don't Let 2024 Happen Again.

Don't Let The 2024 Growing Season Happen Again

Consider 2024 your wake up call to change your mindset.

The Real Story Behind 2024's Yellow Corn

The Numbers Don't Lie

Why the 2025 OH YES YOU CAN Nutrient Cycling & Crop Seminar is Different ﻿

What You'll Learn:

Beyond "Here, Try This"

Option 1

Ready to test your soil biology and build a plan
that actually works?

Why This Matters to Your Family

Why the 2025 OH YES YOU CAN Nutrient Cycling & Crop Seminar is Different

fits into your 2025 strategy?

What You See Isn't Always the Full Story

The Myth of the "Normal Year"

and get higher yields?