Is Boron the Secret to Higher Yields? Could just a few ounces of boron be what your crops are missing? Today we’re talking about boron. A nutrient that can make a big impact. It helps plants build strong cell walls, move sugars, and fix nitrogen. It also plays a big role in pollination and helps crops grow better in hot, dry weather. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why boron is often missing in the soil; • How to tell if your crops need more, and; • Simple ways to get better results....
Jul 08, 2025•14 min•Ep. 313
Are your sunflowers really reaching their full potential? In this episode, Rod teams up with Denny, to break down the science that drives higher yields like how photosynthesis impacts sugar production, and why nutrient timing matters more than ever. You’ll hear: • How corn’s photosynthesis process beats sunflowers (and what to do about it); • Safe starter fertilizer tips for oilseed crops; • Why early phosphorus is key to stronger stands, and; • How tissue testing helps guide better decisions....
Jul 01, 2025•14 min•Ep. 312
Today we’re having a conversation with our client Josh. We talk about how he made the shift from traditional dry NPK to a more efficient liquid system for better nutrient management and increased yields. Our guest opens up, so you’ll learn: • How he no-tills his farm and uses cover crops; • How to select the perfect foliar mix; and • Cutting edge techniques using a drone for foliar feeding. This has helped Josh grow more while spending less. It’s all about giving your crops exactly what they nee...
Jun 24, 2025•11 min•Ep. 311
Think pouring on more nitrogen is the key to big yields? Think again. Too much nitrogen can backfire, costing you money and hurting your crop. The real win comes from using the right amount at the right time and making sure it works with your whole fertility plan. Our guest explains how to use nutrients better. You’ll learn: • Why your crops need a good balance of all nutrients; • How the right mix of ammonium and nitrate helps corn and wheat; and • What guessing on fertilizer might be costing y...
Jun 17, 2025•28 min•Ep. 310
What if you could know your if your corn needs more nitrogen with 97% accuracy? With a PSNT (Pre-Sidedress Nitrogen Test) you can! Our guest expert shares: • Why the V4 to V6 stages are so important; • How the PSNT works; and • Tips to help you save money and increase corn yields! If you want to use nitrogen the right way and get more out of your crop, this episode is for you.
Jun 12, 2025•11 min•Ep. 309
Can you really build a strong team just by calling out the good in people? In this episode, we’re talking about how leading with encouragement can change your farm, your family, and your future. We can’t control the weather or crop prices, but we can control how we respond. Farming throws plenty of curveballs. When we choose to react with grit, gratitude, and a problem-solving mindset, we create a ripple effect that lifts everyone around us. It’s not about ignoring challenges it’s about choosing...
Jun 10, 2025•10 min•Ep. 308
Today we’re sharing simple tips to turn problem acres into productive ones. You’ll learn how potassium and magnesium compete in the soil and why weather can make it harder for plants to take in nutrients. With the right plan though, even your toughest fields can do well. We’ll also cover how foliar feeding helps crops under stress and how cover crops can rebuild soil health. Plus, we’ll talk about specialty crops. You’ll learn: • How to farm around sodic and high-mag soils; • Why foliar feeding ...
Jun 03, 2025•19 min•Ep. 307
Not sure how foliar feeding works or what to spray? We’ve got simple answers that make a big difference. In this episode, we break down foliar feeding - what it is, how to do it right, and why it matters for your bottom line. We’ll walk you through timing, pressure, volume, and even how the temperature can make or break your results. In this episode, you’ll hear: • Why old spray habits could be costing you yield; • What tissue testing can tell you (and why it matters); and • The 3 stages to Foli...
May 27, 2025•52 min•Ep. 306
What if one simple step could help you grow more wheat and make every acre count? In this episode we share practical tips to grow healthier wheat, boost your yields, and improve profitability. You’ll learn: • The first step to take before you plant; • Which small nutrients can lead to big results; and • What’s working best right now to improve plant health Want help with foliar feeding?
May 20, 2025•27 min•Ep. 305
Today’s episode we’ll talk about how to cut costs without cutting corners. You’ll learn how better soil fertility and smart nitrogen use can help you grow more and spend less. We’ll break down: • How to use nitrogen the right way; • Why split applications might save you money; and • What old habits might be costing you more than you think. Our goal is to help farmers like you across the U.S. grow strong farms that last.
May 13, 2025•18 min•Ep. 304
What if one simple change could help you grow more and spend less? In this episode, we talk with a farmer who started from scratch and has moved from a dry program to a liquid system. He shares what worked on his farm and how it helped him boost yields and manage costs. If you’re wondering whether if making the change is worth it, this episode will give you clear answers. You’ll learn: Why liquid fertilizer made such a big impact; What makes low-salt, high-quality products matter; and How to con...
May 06, 2025•22 min•Ep. 303
Are your soybean yields stuck at the same number every year? You don’t have to settle for that! In today’s episode, we’ll dig into simple but powerful ways to grow more bushels. We’re sharing 9 Questions Every Farmer Should Be Asking to Increase Soybean Yields. If you’re ready to take your farm to the next level, this episode is for you. You’ll learn: Why timing matters How soil health affects yield; and Mistakes that could be costing you bushels Every farmer can unlock higher yields, you just n...
Apr 29, 2025•34 min•Ep. 302
Did you know that something as simple as sugar can help your crops? In this episode we talk about how sugar is a powerful tool for farmers. It’s not just for sweet tea sugar can feed good microbes in the soil, help break down old plant residue, and even improve the health of crops like corn, soybeans, and wheat. Rod shares how sugar used to be hard to work with, but now there are easy options that mix well and don’t clog equipment. And best of all? Farmers are seeing better yields and higher pro...
Apr 22, 2025•21 min•Ep. 301
What if simply changing when you apply potassium could lead to higher yields and profitability? In this episode, digging into K applications. With rising costs and market uncertainty, now’s the time to make sure everything we do pencils out. You’ll learn: Why potassium levels in your soil can change a lot; Tips to help your crops grow better; and What to know about potassium sulfate. Doing the right thing always pays off and we’re here to help you make good choices to have the best season possib...
Apr 15, 2025•23 min•Ep. 300
Are You Planting for Profit—or Just Following the Calendar? In this episode of the A Better Way to Farm Podcast, we’re covering 7 tips to improve profitability this season because when you plant with intention, you plant for profit. We’re sharing 7 real and actionable strategies you can use right now to improve planting outcomes and set yourself up for a better harvest. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The S.E.E.D. method and how to use it in your fields; Practical tips to improve stand counts...
Apr 08, 2025•11 min•Ep. 299
What would you do if your family farm had to shut down? In this episode, we talk with Jason, a Michigan farmer. His family had been farming for over 100 years. But everything changed when they learned the soil was full of PFAS—harmful chemicals from using treated human waste as fertilizer. Jason shares how this happened, how it’s affected his family, and what he’s doing to keep going. What You’ll Learn: The hidden risks of using human waste as fertilizer; What farmers need to consider before app...
Apr 02, 2025•47 min•Ep. 298
Are your soybeans stuck at a plateau? What if you could break past that and grow even more? Today Rod’s shares 3 easy, proven tips to help you get better soybean yields and boost your farm’s profits. Here’s What You’ll Learn: How to set the right plant population and nutrition for maximum growth; How testing for SCN can make a big difference; and Why adding chelated manganese to your glyphosate applications helps. Don’t miss these simple, helpful tips to increase yields! If you enjoyed this epis...
Mar 25, 2025•12 min•Ep. 297
Spring planting season is just around the corner—are you ready to hit the ground running? In this episode, we’re covering strategies that can help you avoid the stress and confusion that often happens. We’ll break down how clear role definitions, cross-training, and daily check-ins can keep your team in sync and ensure a smooth, productive season. Plus, we’ll discuss one simple but powerful change that can make a major impact on your planting efficiency. In this episode, you'll learn: Why daily ...
Mar 18, 2025•14 min•Ep. 296
Are you getting the most out of your spray applications? In this episode, we’re talking about how adjuvants can help your herbicides work better, improve soil health, and save you money. Whether you own a sprayer or hire someone to apply, these tips will help you make better decisions for your farm. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Should You Own a Sprayer? – How it can save money and give you more control. How to Read Herbicide Labels & Adjust pH – Avoid mistakes and get better results. W...
Mar 11, 2025•16 min•Ep. 295
With planting season around the corner, let’s talk about why you need a seed treatment with adenosine monophosphate. Nearly all corn seed in the U.S. comes pre-treated, but not all treatments are created equal. Understanding what’s in them can be the difference between a strong start and a costly struggle. In this episode, we’re covering: A patented seed treatment proven to boost emergence How adenosine monophosphate (AMP) fuels plant energy Why plant stand consistency drives higher yields Seed ...
Mar 04, 2025•15 min•Ep. 294
In this episode we’re breaking down exactly how you can affordably get your planter set up for liquid fertilizer. It’s simpler, more cost-effective, and easier to implement than you think. Today we dive into: The real ROI of liquid fertilizer and how it pays for itself How even non-mechanically inclined farmers can set up a system with ease How regardless of your budget you can get your planter set up Why now is the time to rethink your fertility program If you’re ready for more profitably, this...
Feb 25, 2025•18 min•Ep. 293
Maximizing efficiency and profitability starts with getting nutrient application right. Too much wastes money, too little costs yield. In this episode, we break down: -The risks of over- and under-application -Why one-size-fits-all fertility plans don’t work -How soil testing guides the right rates & timing -Placement strategies to maximize uptake Fertility isn’t just about applying nutrients—it’s about making them work for you. Enjoy the episode? Share this with a friend who wants to make m...
Feb 18, 2025•16 min•Ep. 292
Ever wondered how some farmers push their yields higher while keeping input costs under control? At A Better Way to Farm, we cut through the noise and bring you real-world strategies to maximize profitability on your operation. In this episode, we sit down with Curt, a fourth-generation farmer from northwest Illinois, who overhauled his fertility program to secure his farm’s future. Learn how his commitment to smarter agronomy choices helped him increase efficiency, improve soil health, and driv...
Feb 11, 2025•20 min•Ep. 291
What if the future of farming means changing the way we’ve always done things? In this episode, we talk about the big challenges farmers face today—higher costs, rising interest rates, and crop prices that just aren’t keeping up. It feels a lot like the struggles of the 1980s, but this time, we have better tools to help. We’ll focus on what farmers can control, how to make smart changes, and why being flexible is the key to staying profitable. This is a call to action: work together, use resourc...
Feb 05, 2025•22 min•Ep. 290
Could your crops be missing out on a crucial boost due to misunderstood micronutrient management? In today’s episode, we dive into the truth about zinc applications—why some people get lackluster results—and how precise soil and tissue testing can completely change the game. We’ll cover common pitfalls with nutrient interactions and how to master them for better plant health and bigger yields. Don’t leave your success to chance; learn how informed nutrient management can transform your operation...
Jan 28, 2025•19 min•Ep. 289
Let’s unlock the secrets of maximizing your farm's potential by harnessing the power of manganese! This episode promises to clear up the widespread confusion between manganese and magnesium and provide invaluable insights into why manganese is the pivotal micronutrient your crops can't do without. We urge our listeners to take action against potential threats like excess sodium and potassium, which can obstruct the manganese uptake. So, don't miss out on transforming your farming practices with ...
Jan 21, 2025•22 min•Ep. 288
Could your crops be suffering from a hidden iron deficiency despite having seemingly adequate soil levels? Join us as we discuss the critical, yet often overlooked, role of iron. We cover proven solutions like iron chelates in foliar applications and the magic of non-ionic surfactants, ensuring that your plants get the nutrients they need to thrive. Learn why soil and tissue testing is imperative. Tune in for insights that could turn your nutrient management from a guessing game into a science....
Jan 14, 2025•19 min•Ep. 287
Ever wondered what chloride and molybdenum actually do for your crops? In this episode, we’re breaking it down. We’ll clear up the common mix-up between chloride and chlorine (trust us, they’re not the same). You’ll get practical tips you can actually use to strike the right nutrient balance and see real results in your fields.
Jan 07, 2025•19 min•Ep. 286
In this episode, we’re diving into the overlooked powerhouse of crop production—copper! While NPK gets all the glory, we’re here to show some love to micronutrients like boron, manganese, zinc, and more. We’ll cover why deficiencies happen, how to fix them, and why paying attention to the small stuff can lead to big results. Whether you’ve been farming for years or are just getting started, tune in for practical tips to boost plant health and productivity in the coming year.
Jan 02, 2025•22 min•Ep. 285
Is sulfur the missing link in your fertility program? In this episode, we’re diving into sulfur—its role alongside nitrogen and phosphorus, why it’s often overlooked, and why adding it might be critical for your farm. We’ll also explore how nutrient imbalances can block plants from getting what they need. If you’re ready to optimize soil fertility and grow better crops, don’t miss this one.
Dec 31, 2024•24 min•Ep. 284
