My Own Experience with Microbial Products
Recently a study came out about a popular nitrogen-fixing microbial product: Pivot Bio PROVEN® that became the subject of talks on “Ag Twitter.” I was curious to see what all the available research out there says before coming up with my own conclusions. Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for crop growth, but managing nitrogen fertilizers can be challenging for farmers. Nitrogen-fixing microbial products, like Pivot Bio PROVEN® and others, claim to enhance corn yield and nitrogen use efficiency. But do they really work? In this article, we'll explore various studies that have tested nitrogen-fixing microbial products and break down their findings in an easy-to-understand way for farmers with a high school education.
North Dakota State University Study (source: link)
Outcome: No significant impact on plant growth or grain yield.
Summary: This study found that nitrogen-fixing products did not significantly improve plant growth or grain yield compared to the control group. They contributed only 1-2% of the total nitrogen in the soil.
Kansas State University Study (source: link)
Outcome: Increased corn yield and nitrogen use efficiency at low and medium nitrogen fertilizer rates.
Summary: The application of nitrogen-fixing microbial products enhanced corn yield and nitrogen use efficiency at low and medium nitrogen fertilizer rates. However, the yield increase was not significant at high nitrogen fertilizer rates.
Minnesota Study (source: link)
Outcome: Increased corn yield and nitrogen use efficiency, particularly at low and medium nitrogen fertilizer rates.
Summary: The study showed that the application of nitrogen-fixing microbial products improved corn yield and nitrogen use efficiency, especially at low and medium nitrogen fertilizer rates. The product's effectiveness was influenced by weather conditions.
Multi-location Study (source: link)
Outcome: Enhanced corn yield and nitrogen use efficiency at low and medium nitrogen fertilizer rates, with varying effectiveness depending on location and environmental factors.
Summary: Nitrogen-fixing microbial products increased corn yield and nitrogen use efficiency at low and medium nitrogen fertilizer rates. The product's effectiveness was influenced by environmental factors and location-specific conditions.
North Central Fertility Study (source: link)
Outcome: Inconsistent results; the effectiveness of nitrogen-fixing microbial products on corn grain yield varied based on weather conditions.
Summary: While there was no significant yield increase in 2019, the product showed promise in 2020, particularly at low and medium nitrogen fertilizer rates.
Analyzing the Yield Impact:
After reviewing the various studies, the answer to the question "Do nitrogen-fixing microbial products help with yield?" appears nuanced. In some cases, the products have demonstrated a positive impact on corn yield, particularly at low and medium nitrogen fertilizer rates. However, the effectiveness of these products on yield can be influenced by factors such as weather conditions and location. Farmers need to consider these factors when evaluating the potential benefits of incorporating nitrogen-fixing microbial products into their nitrogen management strategy. While the effects might not guarantee a significant yield increase in all situations, they could still play a role in optimizing nitrogen fertilizer inputs and reducing the environmental impact of nitrogen fertilizers.
Choosing the Right Time and Place:
Determining the appropriate time to use the product depends on the specific conditions of a farmer's land and the regional climate. For farmers in arid regions like California or Arizona, where there's limited organic matter and moisture, Pivot Bio PROVEN® could be more beneficial, as the product may help optimize nitrogen use efficiency in these challenging conditions. On the other hand, for farmers in the Midwest, where there's typically more organic matter and moisture, the product might still offer some benefits, particularly in areas with low and medium nitrogen fertilizer rates. Farmers need to assess their unique soil conditions, local climate, and nitrogen management needs to determine the most appropriate time and situation to incorporate Pivot Bio PROVEN® into their farming practices. By carefully considering these factors, farmers can make informed decisions about whether or not to invest in this nitrogen-fixing microbial product.
My Own Experience with Microbial Products:
In my personal experience with microbial products, I have found that Fertum and Acadian Plant Health products share some similarities and differences with Pivot Bio PROVEN. Fertum and Acadian products primarily focus on enhancing overall plant health and nutrient availability by providing beneficial microorganisms, while Pivot Bio PROVEN specifically targets nitrogen-fixing bacteria to supply plants with nitrogen.
In line with the research results, I have observed that Fertum worked exceptionally well on crops like almonds, pistachios, oranges, grapes, and potatoes, particularly in conditions where the ground experienced stress such as drought. However, when there was an excess of urea applied, I didn't see as much of a difference in yield. Just like the study, I consistently noticed taller plants and increased vine vigor in vine crops when using Fertum.
It is essential to note that these observations are based on different crops than those used in the Pivot Bio PROVEN studies. Nevertheless, I believe that there is a place for products for microbial products in agricultural practices, and more research must be conducted to better understand their potential benefits and optimal application strategies. I also think its really important for everyone to run $/acre/unit before adding anything to farm practices which I understand takes time but is necessary to do. If you’re thinking about trying it I don’t think it hurts to run your own test trial and come up with your own conclusions. There is no silver bullet with these “hot” products and I don’t expect any single product to solve all yield issues.
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