On Monday, March 9th, IFCA hosted a recorded webinar with Dr. John Jones of the University of Illinois to discuss key considerations for spring fertilizer planning in Illinois. Dr. Jones provided an overview of current soil conditions heading into the 2026 growing season and shared recent research on nitrogen rate decisions, phosphorus and potassium soil-test calibration updates, and sulfur management. The presentation highlighted updated MRTN nitrogen guidelines, ongoing research to refine Illinois soil fertility recommendations, and the importance of using soil testing and economic return analyses to guide nutrient management decisions for the 2026 crop.
Election Day is here, Illinois. Agriculture is stronger when everyone shows up. Make your voice heard. 🗳️
Harvest is wrapping up, but anhydrous season isn’t here yet. 🌡️
Thanks to WCIA 3 News for having IFCA President Jenny Webb on "From the Farm" to talk about where Illinois soil temperatures stand and why it's still too early for fall anhydrous ammonia.
The quick version: wait until 4-inch soil temps are consistently below 50°F and trending colder. Warm soils speed up the conversion of ammonium to nitrate, which puts nitrogen at risk of loss before next year's crop can use it. A few extra days of patience protects the nitrogen investment.
🌡️ Check soil temps in your area before you roll: warm.isws.illinois.edu/warm/soil/
https://www.wcia.com/video/from-the-farm-high-soil-temperatures-pose-problem-for-anhydrous-ammonia-application/12296056
We’ve scheduled 3 more sessions of our new First Pass Applicator Training!
This course is designed for applicators who are new to applying pesticides. Through real-life scenarios, demonstrations, and hands-on and group exercises, attendees will cover all aspects of pesticide and dry fertilizer application. It’s open to both retailers and growers.
📅 January 6–7, 2027
📅 February 24–25, 2027
📅 March 10–11, 2027
These courses fill up fast, so register early to save your spot: https://ifca.com/Training/First_Pass
Thank you to West Central FS, Inc. for hosting Rep. Eric Sorensen at the FS Technology Learning Center in Galesburg! It was a great opportunity to show the Congressman the work our members do every day to help growers make informed, profitable decisions on seed, crop production, and nutrient management. We appreciate him taking the time to visit.
Thanks also to GROWMARK, Inc. and the Agricultural Retailers Association for helping make the visit happen. When policymakers see ag retail up close, it leads to more productive conversations about the issues that matter to Illinois agriculture. 🌽🌱