Sugar Producer

14 Sugar Producer NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 Two of the largest challenges faced in sugarbeet production are increasing yields and increasing sugar content and quality. These are difficult objectives to achieve, and in some cases, it seems like reaching one goal directly compromises the other. Macronutrients and micronutrients are essential for the crop to function properly and achieve an optimum performance and maximum yield potential. Key nutrient deficiencies that limit sugarbeet production include nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, zinc and boron. Many growers have an understanding and strategy for NPK management in sugarbeets. With strategies in place for macronutrients, many are looking for what is next to help reach their yield goals. To do so, growers should think small by considering a boron and zinc fertilization program which can potentially help increase yields and quality. HOW MUCH IS ENOUGH? In 2020, Idaho, Minnesota, Michigan and North Dakota represented more than 80 percent of the sugarbeet production in the U.S. Surveys and sampling in those states show a high percentage of soils with deficiencies for boron and zinc. In addition, sugarbeets are known to be highly susceptible to boron deficiencies and moderately susceptible to zinc deficiencies. It is common to find variability in soil concentration of micronutrients at a field level. This means even in soils identified as having "sufficient" levels of boron and zinc, there are zones in the field where nutrient concentration is extremely low, This could result in deficiencies that can compromise yield and quality. This is where a micronutrient fertilization program can be beneficial in addressing these deficiencies. DOES MICRONUTRIENT FERTILIZATION WORK? Fortunately, multiple studies have shown the positive results on sugarbeet yield and quality from micronutrient applications. BORON Boron plays an important role in water consumption, translocation of hormones and metabolites such as sugar to the roots. This means boron is directly related to sugar production and increased quality. A study from Iowa State University found the addition of boron at different rates resulted in increased root weights, root yield and percent of sugar content in roots of sugarbeets. These results are consistent with another study that observed increments in root length, diameter and root yield of sugarbeet with the application of boron. The results from these studies reveal boron has a direct influence on sugarbeet yield and quality. ZINC Zinc plays key roles assisting in utilization of nitrogen and phosphorus in sugarbeets suggesting it is responsible for increase in top and root weight gains and increased yields. A study conducted by the University of Wyoming found root yield increase of 2.8 tons per acre (11 percent) and a sugar yield increase of 983 pounds per acre (12 percent) when zinc was applied to sugarbeets. The results are consistent with findings from other studies that showed top, and root dry weights of sugarbeet increased through applications of zinc. These results indicate that sugarbeet yield and quality are significantly influenced by applications of zinc. WHAT'S THE BEST STRATEGY? When it comes to micronutrient nutrition, not all sources and applications are the same. With some granular micronutrient sources, recommended application rates often exceed crop requirements; in the case of boron, this could easily lead to crop toxicity. To prevent deficiencies and toxicities, we need to focus on product efficiency, distribution and root interception. A micronutrient management strategy for sugarbeets should include the 4R Nutrient Stewardship—ensuring the right source, right rate, right time and right placement of nutrients. Innovative Wolf Trax micronutrients from Koch Agronomic Services can help maximize micronutrient efficiency and are a solution that aligns with the 4R framework. Wolf Trax, which features dry dispersible powder (DDP) technology, can be coated onto dry fertilizer and provides uniform distribution across fields. This uniform distribution promotes better root interception and increased potential for nutrient uptake. The Wolf Trax lineup of DDP nutrients can help meet nutritional needs of primary, secondary and micronutrients such as boron and zinc necessary for sugarbeet production. To learn more about Wolf Trax or to connect with a Koch representative, visit www.kochagronomicservices.com. n Micronutrients play a big role in optimizing yields and quality in sugarbeets By Edwin Suarez, senior agronomist, Koch Agronomic Services Think Small

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