Corn and soybean farmers often apply fertilizer in November, with roughly 25% to 50% of the total commercial nitrogen applied to fields across the state occurring in the fall.
Experts emphasize that waiting for cooler soil temperatures helps prevent nitrates from flushing into streams and rivers.
Richard Roth, a nutrient management specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, said the primary motivation for farmers to apply fertilizer in the fall is to spread out the workload.
Author's summary: Fertilizer application timing is crucial for farmers.