Soil Fertility

All Soil Fertility Content

Nitrogen rate map layered on top of a field

SDSU Extension invites corn farmers to join nitrogen fertilizer trials

February 02, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension and Premier Crop Systems are recruiting corn farmers to participate in nitrogen fertilizer trials.

An oats field with numerous small rows of green, oat grass emerged throughout.

Oat Nitrogen Fertilizer Rate Guidelines: Do we use the yield goal or maximum return to nitrogen approach?

Nitrogen is an essential plant nutrient commonly applied to oat crops. It is important to apply an appropriate rate of nitrogen fertilizer to oats, as too little can reduce economic return, while too much can lead to potential negative environmental effects.

man holding a small pile of soil in his hands

Fertilizer Recommendation Guide

SDSU Extension fertilizer recommendations are based on field research in South Dakota and neighboring states.

Nitrogen rate map layered on top of a field

South Dakota On-Farm Nitrogen Rate Trial Program

The on-farm corn nitrogen fertilizer rate trial program will help farmers, crop advisors and ag service providers to design, implement, and analyze nitrogen rate trials.

Oats growing in a no-till field.

Updating Oat Nitrogen Fertilizer Rate Recommendations in South Dakota

Research trial results for nitrogen fertilizer rate recommendation for oats in South Dakota.

Aerial view of the SDSU Northeast Research Farm.
Jan      Feb 06 - 26

Crop Hour

SDSU Extension Crop Hour webinars provide valuable information for South Dakota crop producers to help them improve their profitability and prepare for the upcoming season.

man holding a small pile of soil in his hands

Transitioning to Soil Health Systems in Eastern South Dakota Intended for beginners: Where do I start?

Fact sheet for beginners on where to start transitioning to soil health systems in eastern South Dakota.

A group of black heifer calves in a feedlot.

Using Feedlot Manure as a Crop Nutrient Source

Factsheet that reviews the steps to obtain a manure application rate based on crop need, soil and manure testing.

Aerial view of the SDSU Southeast Research Farm.
Jan 06 - 07

Southeast Research Farm Seminars @ Dakota Farm Show

Join SDSU Extension for a series of educational presentations during the Dakota Farm Show from January 6-7, 2026, at the USD DakotaDome (1101 N Dakota St, Vermillion, SD 57069).

Various chemical symbols for common nutrients found in garden soil over a selection of young plants emerging from garden soil.

Managing Phosphorus and Other Nutrients in Gardens

Fact sheet on managing phosphorus and other nutrients in gardens.