Closeup of young corn plantEvery corn grower knows how critical potassium (K) is for crop health. It leads to a vigorous plant with healthy ears. But even though K is mobile and assists in moving water and nutrients throughout the plant, it is not mobile in the soil. Therefore, plant roots must readily be able to reach it. Syngenta agronomy representative Phil Krieg says growers should treat their K levels like a gas tank – it should be filled up before it empties.

Applying K before planting helps new plants have more access to it in the most critical growth stages. While many growers prioritize phosphorus (P), many more growers are hurt by underapplying K – a mistake that can lead to a yield difference of as much as 20 bushels per acre.

Read more on K’s role in corn health here.