Soils
Iowa's rich soils are the backbone of its agricultural success. Find more information about Iowa’s soils, soil fertility needs for crop production in Iowa, how to reduce soil erosion, minimize soil compaction, and improve soil productivity.
Soil Tools and Resources
Timely Insights on Soils
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March 26, 2026Authors
This spring began with higher and uncertain phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) fertilizer prices, with a higher increase for P fertilizers. Fortunately, corn and soybean grain prices began increasing in February and expectations are for further increases, mainly for corn (Chad Hart - Ag Market Outlook). Although many producers already applied the phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) needs for 2026 last fall, others will apply them this spring and are considering reducing planned rates due to lower expected economic benefits from fertilization. However, reducing P and K rates across all conditions is not a good management decision.
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March 24, 2026Content Author
Optimum nitrogen (N) fertilizer rates for corn vary widely from field to field and from year to year. One reason is that the amount of nitrogen left in the soil after harvest is never the same. Measuring residual soil inorganic nitrogen—ammonium (NH₄⁺) and nitrate (NO₃⁻)—can help indicate whether fertilizer needs for the upcoming crop may be higher or lower than usual.
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March 1, 2026Content Author
AMES, Iowa – Members, farmers and ag business professionals are invited to attend the North Central Iowa Research Association annual meeting on Wednesday, March 25, at the Northern Research Farm, located at 310 South Main Street, Kanawha.
The association, in partnership with Iowa State University, oversees the Northern Research Farm and works with ISU Extension and Outreach to provide agronomic research, demonstrations and educational events.
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January 13, 2026Content Author
Spray drones are increasingly being evaluated by Iowa farmers as an additional tool for crop input application. When used appropriately, these systems can provide flexibility for timely applications, reduce field traffic, and improve access to areas that are difficult to reach with traditional ground equipment.
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January 13, 2026Content Author
Spray drones are increasingly being evaluated by Iowa farmers as an additional tool for crop input application. When used appropriately, these systems can provide flexibility for timely applications, reduce field traffic, and improve access to areas that are difficult to reach with traditional ground equipment.
