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Grow the future

Yara Agronomy Team

All the latest crop nutrition information and advice from the Yara Agronomy team. Yara is the global leader in crop nutrition knowledge and the leading producer of quality fertiliser products.

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English

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S1 · E160
Wednesday · 16 min
Late Season Grazing: Maximising Grass Growth and Forage Supplies for Winter
In this episode, Yara's Grassland Agronomist Philip Cosgrave discusses late-season grazing and reflects on the grass-growing season so far. The conversation explores how weather conditions have varied across regions, with some areas of Scotland and the west of Ireland experiencing favourable grass-growing conditions, while others faced more challenging periods. Philip explains how most swards have recovered from earlier dry conditions, examines current grass growth rates, and highlights alternative feed options to help livestock farms through the winter. He also shares practical advice on stimulating autumn grass growth through the timely application of slurry and organic manures, before outlining key recommendations for winter preparation, grassland management, and forage budgeting to help farmers make the most of available feed resources.
S1 · E159
September 23 · 13 min
Foliar Nutrition: Preparing Crops for the Season Ahead
For today’s Grow the Future podcast, we’re joined by Natalie Wood, Product Manager for YaraVita and Biologicals to discuss the growing role of foliar nutrition in modern crop production. The episode begins with an overview of the season, covering drilling progress, weather conditions across the country, and harvest results to date. Natalie explains when foliar nutrition should be introduced into crop programmes and why it is becoming increasingly important in helping crops overcome environmental and nutritional challenges. She shares practical examples from the field, including the greening effect observed when farmers apply YaraVita CropBoost to maize. The discussion also explores nutrient management strategies for oilseed rape and cereals, taking into account changing weather patterns and the potential influence of El Niño conditions. Natalie provides tailored recommendations for wheat, barley, and oats, alongside an update on the YaraAmplix biostimulant range and its role in supporting crop performance. The episode concludes with Natalie’s key product recommendations for the season, including YaraVita Brassitrel Pro for oilseed rape and YaraVita CropBoost and Gramitrel for cereals.
S1 · E158
September 9 · 17 min
Yara Climate Choice Fertilisers: The Future of Low-Carbon Nutrition
For this special episode of Grow the Future, we explore Yara’s Climate Choice Fertilisers with Mark Tucker, Senior Manager for Partnerships and Food Value Chain, and Dale Turner, Head of Marketing, Agronomy and Value Chain. The discussion covers the development of Climate Choice Fertilisers, including Yara’s new Sluiskil plant in the Netherlands and its carbon capture and storage technology. Mark and Dale explain how these fertilisers deliver the same trusted performance farmers expect, while offering a low carbon footprint. The episode the availability of Climate Choice fertilisers across key Yara product families such as YaraBela and YaraVera, and the opportunities these fertilisers present for farmers across all sectors. From arable and grassland farming to distribution networks and broader food value chains, the conversation explores why scalability is key to supporting agriculture's sustainability ambitions. To learn more about Yara Climate Choice Fertilisers, visit our websites today. UK - Paving the way to a decarbonised food future | Yara Climate Choice Fertilisers | Yara UK Ireland - Paving the way to a decarbonised food future | Yara Climate Choice Fertilisers | Yara Ireland
S1 · E157
August 26 · 15 min
Unlocking the Potential of YaraPlus
This week on the Grow the Future podcast, we explore YaraPlus, Yara’s innovative digital platform with Commercial Solutions Manager Darren Glegg. Darren shares an overview of the app’s development so far, including feedback from farmers who are already using it and seeing the benefits. The conversation highlights how YaraPlus is designed not only for arable farmers but also for grassland businesses, offering practical tools to support better decision-making and improve efficiency. Darren discusses features that are available right now, including the Photo Analysis tool, and explains how farmers can use the platform to maximise productivity. We also take a closer look at some of YaraPlus’ advanced services, such as the Fertilisation Plan for arable farmers and the Nitrogen Uptake Map for grassland fields. Finally, Darren explains how straightforward it is to get started, whether using the mobile app or the desktop platform, making it easier than ever for farmers to access valuable insights and support. For more information on YaraPlus visit our websites today: Yara UK - YaraPlus | Your partner for precise crop nutrition Yara Ireland - YaraPlus | Your partner for precise crop nutrition
#156
August 12 · 12 min
Oilseed Rape Establishment in Dry Conditions
For this week's episode of the Grow the Future Podcast, we're joined by Area Manager James Willis to discuss the key considerations for establishing a successful oilseed rape crop this autumn. With many parts of the UK continuing to experience dry conditions, James shares his insights on the challenges growers face and the practical steps they can take to maximise establishment. The discussion covers the importance of creating the right conditions at drilling, the role of starter fertilisers, and why applying nitrogen at drilling can be crucial for driving rapid early growth and helping crops establish strongly. James also highlights the risks associated with clubroot, particularly where brassicas form part of the rotation, and explains what growers should consider to minimise its impact. The episode includes nutrition recommendations from Yara, including YaraMila ACTYVA S for granular fertiliser programmes, Yara Multi 18-27-0 for liquid fertiliser applications, and YaraVita Brassitrel Pro to support crop nutrition through foliar feeding. Tune in to hear why early drilling is one of the most important factors for successful oilseed rape establishment, helping crops make the most of available moisture, develop strong root systems and set the foundation for a productive season ahead.
#155
July 29 · 11 min
From Plant to Farm: Supply Chain Insights
For this special episode, we’re joined by Kim Render, Supply Chain Operations Manager for Yara, for an insightful discussion on the challenges and opportunities shaping today’s supply chain landscape. Kim begins by explaining how Yara balances meeting customer demand while maintaining compliance with a wide range of industry regulations. She explores the legal requirements surrounding Yara’s packaging operations and discusses the role of the company’s terminal network, including both coastal import facilities and inland storage locations. The conversation also covers Yara’s four production plants, recent investments made across the business, and the close collaboration between operations, logistics teams, and Yara’s supply chain network in Lithuania. Kim shares how these connections help ensure products are delivered efficiently to customers across the UK and Ireland. With more than 20 years of experience at Yara, Kim reflects on the evolving nature of the supply chain industry and highlights some of the key challenges facing the sector today, including changing weather patterns and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty. She also discusses what continues to motivate her in her role and why she remains passionate about working within operations. Finally, Kim offers valuable advice for farmers, explaining why planning ahead and investing in fertiliser early can help provide greater certainty and support long-term farm productivity.
S1 · E154
July 15 · 17 min
Understanding Soil Carbon and Soil Health
For the next episode of the Grow the Future Podcast, we’re diving into the topic of soil carbon with Mark Tucker, Yara’s Senior Manager for Partnerships and the Value Food Chain. The conversation begins by exploring a common question facing modern agriculture: as farmers work to reverse historical practices that have depleted soil organic matter and carbon levels, are nitrogen fertilisers being unfairly blamed for declining soil health? Mark addresses this perception head-on, explaining the role of fertilisers within the wider soil management picture and providing a clear overview of what soil health and soil quality really mean. Throughout the episode, Mark discusses how different farming systems have influenced soil condition over time and shares practical insights into how farmers can rebuild organic matter levels. He also highlights why soil analysis should be the foundation of every farm’s nutrient management strategy and explains the vital role it plays in improving both productivity and sustainability. The discussion goes on to examine the importance of flexibility in cultivation practices, including the benefits of reducing ploughing and adopting low- or zero-tillage approaches where appropriate. Mark also explains how cover crops can help improve soil health, retain nutrients and contribute valuable nitrogen back into the system. To conclude, Mark outlines the key principles farmers should consider when managing their soils, offering practical advice on maximising nutrient-use efficiency while maintaining strong soil structure and resilience for the future.
#153
July 2 · 11 min
Going Liquid - Maximizing Accuracy and Efficiency
As a manufacturer of both solid and liquid plant nutrition, Yara is dedicated to advancing precision farming. In this podcast episode, Roger Bacon, Yara’s Farm Account Manager for Lincolnshire, dives into the key advantages of liquid fertilisers with Ken Rundle. He discusses their reliability during dry springs, ease of application, reduced labor demands, and improved accuracy. Roger also shares storage recommendations and explains how Yara supports farmers transitioning to liquid systems. He highlights our comprehensive range of NPKs, Straight Nitrogen, and Nitrogen Sulphur products, alongside precision tools like the N-Sensor for real-time crop monitoring and the new YaraPlus app for creating variable-rate application maps. The episode wraps up with a summary of how liquid fertilizer maximizes overall farm efficiency. Ready to unlock the full potential of your fields? Head over to the YaraPlus website today to transform your crop nutrition strategy. UK - https://uk.yaraplus.com/ Ire - https://ie.yaraplus.com/
#152
June 17 · 16 min
Grass Growth, Grazing & Silage: Key Mid-Season Decisions
As grass growth accelerates across the UK and Ireland, livestock farmers face the challenge of maintaining forage quality while maximising productivity from grazing and silage systems. In this episode of Grow the Future, host Ken Rundle is joined by Yara's Country Grassland Specialist, Philip Cosgrave, to discuss the key grassland management decisions facing farmers at mid-season. They explore how to maintain grass quality during periods of rapid growth, the importance of managing grazing covers, and why timely nutrient applications are critical for both grazing and silage performance. Philip also highlights the significant nutrient offtakes associated with silage production, the growing importance of potassium, phosphate and sulphur management, and how farmers can use nutrient planning to improve efficiency while remaining compliant with evolving environmental regulations. Whether you're focused on grazing performance, silage yields, or long-term soil fertility, this episode provides practical advice to help you get the most from your grassland this season.
S1 · E151
June 3 · 14 min
Think Carefully - Planning Future Rotations
In this episode, we are joined by James Willis, Area Manager based in Norfolk, to discuss strategic nutrition planning for upcoming crop rotations. The conversation opens with an analysis of current geopolitical challenges and their macroeconomic impact on agriculture, before transitioning into a technical discussion on the critical relationship between sulphur and nitrogen in driving photosynthesis and maximizing nutrient use efficiency. James emphasizes the financial necessity of mastering agronomic fundamentals, highlighting how sub-optimal soil pH can incur significant costs—and how regular soil sampling and leaf testing can mitigate these risks. Additionally, the episode explores recent grower feedback regarding a shift toward less intensive crop rotations, examines the broader market implications of wheat production challenges in the US and Australia, and evaluates the operational advantages of transitioning to liquid fertilisers. The episode concludes with key, actionable advice from James to help growers navigate the complexities of the upcoming season.
#150
May 20 · 16 min
Reseeding Strategies and Sward Recovery
In this episode of Grow the Future, we focus on a critical priority for livestock and dairy producers across the UK and Ireland: maximizing sward recovery and pasture productivity. Joining us to share his expertise is Philip Cosgrave, a specialist Grassland Agronomist with Yara UK and Ireland, who provides a comprehensive overview of the spring 2026 season from a grassland perspective and addresses the strategic decision between spring and autumn reseeding. This discussion highlights targeted nutritional interventions to accelerate sward recovery, specifically reviewing the role of YaraVita Croplift Pro—a highly effective foliar fertiliser designed for co-application with herbicides to deliver a precise balance of essential nutrients. Furthermore, for maize growers looking to optimize crop establishment, the episode explores the strategic application of YaraVita CropBoost and YaraAmplix Optitrac, supported by a review of recent independent trial data demonstrating their significant impact on yield and quality.
#149
May 6 · 14 min
Grassland Nutrition - An Analysis of YaraMila Sulphur Cut in Ireland
In this episode of Grow the Future, Crop Nutrition Business Manager Nigel Mills joins the conversation to provide a comprehensive look at the current state of Irish grassland farming. The discussion opens with an overview of recent weather patterns across Ireland and their impact on the nutritional status of fields and paddocks, identifying the specific missing nutrients that often hinder optimal growth. Nigel highlights the strategic benefits of using YaraMila Sulphur Cut, emphasizing its unique formulation where every single granule contains a consistent balance of essential elements for uniform spreading. Furthermore, the episode addresses supply chain concerns, reassuring farmers that product remains readily available within Ireland despite geopolitical conflicts in Iran. To conclude, Nigel shares expert advice on maximizing farm efficiency through the new YaraPlus mobile app, a digital tool now available for download on both Apple and Android devices.
#148
April 15 · 20 min
Navigating Nutrient Management in Uncertain Times
Welcome to the latest episode of the Grow the Future podcast, where we tackle the complexities of nutrient management in today’s volatile market. We are joined by Mark Tucker, Senior Manager of Partnership & Food Value Chain, to discuss how UK arable farmers can navigate uncertainty while maintaining high productivity. The conversation explores the current industry sentiment and emphasizes the vital link between nutrient strategy and yield potential. Mark highlights the practical impact of tissue analysis and foliar nutrients on boosting your ROI, while showcasing digital tools which are accessible via the YaraPlus app—can streamline your decision-making. Tune in to discover why staying dynamic and data-driven is the best way to secure your farm's future.
#147
April 8 · 18 min
Spring Grass Growth - Nutrient Planning for Grazing Success
Spring grazing is underway, but a late start to the season and high winter rainfall have created new challenges for grassland farmers across the UK and Ireland. In this episode of Yara’s Grow the Future podcast, Ken Rundle is joined by grassland specialist Philip Cosgrave to discuss how farmers can adapt their nutrient strategy to drive grass growth this spring. They explore how rainfall and soil conditions may have reduced available nitrogen and sulphur, why phosphate and potash shouldn’t be overlooked, and how nutrient planning can support stronger grass growth heading into April and May. The conversation also covers practical grazing management tips, the value of slurry as a nutrient source, and how fertilisers containing selenium can help support livestock performance through the grass. If you’re looking to maximise grass production and make the most of every nutrient this season, this episode is packed with timely advice.
#146
March 25 · 10 min
Unlocking the YaraAmplix Portfolio
Welcome to the next episode of Grow the Future. Today, we explore the evolving landscape of crop nutrition and biologicals with a focus on maximizing plant potential through targeted biostimulant programs. Joining us to share her expertise is Natalie Wood, Yara’s Agronomist and Product Manager for YaraVita and Biologicals for the UK and Ireland. Our discussion centers on the YaraAmplix range, with a deep dive into Flostrel—a high-performance biostimulant engineered to optimize reproductive development in key crops, including Oilseed Rape. Natalie provides a technical overview of the product’s nutrient profile and application timings, supported by the latest performance data from recent trials. We also look ahead to the upcoming season, evaluating the roles of YaraAmplix Optitrac and Optivi, and discussing how growers can utilize the Tankmix feature within the YaraPlus app to ensure seamless product compatibility and field efficacy.
S1 · E145
March 18 · 15 min
How to Optimize Potato and Maize Nutrition in Ireland
Welcome back to Grow the Future. In today's episode, we’re heading to Ireland to catch up with Area Manager John Hegerty. With the Irish growing season in full swing, we’re digging into the essentials of foliar feeding for potatoes and maize. John shares his expert take on the current weather, why proactive nutrient planning is a must right now, and how products like YaraVita CropBoost and Magphos K can make a real difference. We’ll also cover the best timing for maize applications and how digital tools like YaraPlus can simplify your season.
S1 · E144
March 11 · 17 min
The ANSWERS Project: Unlocking the Potential of UK Field Beans
In this special episode of the Grow the Future podcast, we are joined by Mark Tucker, Yara’s Partnership & Food Value Chain lead for Europe, and Dr. Becky Howard to discuss the ANSWERS project. Mark opens the conversation by explaining Yara’s involvement in the initiative and the pressing need to address current challenges and nutritional knowledge gaps within pea and bean production. With funding from DEFRA and significant interest across the UK and Europe, the discussion highlights how integrating science and field trials can alleviate nutritional stress to achieve wider environmental rewards in sustainable protein production. Mark Tucker also delves into his specific role regarding the importance of sustainability within the pulse value chain and details which Yara products are currently being featured in the trials. Following this, Dr. Becky Howard provides a comprehensive overview of the results from the first year of field trials, offering a scientific perspective on the project's progress so far. For farmers looking to optimize their own protein crops, the episode concludes with practical advice on where to find more information and how to apply these emerging insights to their own operations.
#143
February 25 · 10 min
Spring Nutrition
In the latest episode of Grow the Future, we’re tackling the fallout from a historically wet season. Joining us is Roger Bacon, Yara’s Crop Nutrition Manager for Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, to break down the essentials of spring nutrition. We explore the impact of recent rainfall on soil health and why prioritizing root development is the only way to save waterlogged, anaerobic crops. Plus, Roger shares his expert product recommendations to help you optimize your nutrition strategy as the season kicks into gear.
#142
February 11 · 14 min
Maximizing Potential with Foliar Nutrition
In the third episode of the Grow the Future podcast, Agronomist and Product Manager for Biologicals and YaraVita Natalie Wood takes a deep dive into foliar nutrition. She discusses how current establishment conditions—particularly the recent wet weather—have affected crop performance. Natalie also outlines Yara’s foliar nutrition recommendations for cereals and oilseed rape, explains the compatibility of different foliar products, and highlights the Yara Tankmix service available through the YaraPlus app. The episode also touches on current soil temperature trends and offers practical advice for farmers moving into the season. For more information on YaraPlus, visit our websites today. UK- https://uk.yaraplus.com Ire- https://ie.yaraplus.com
#141
January 28 · 18 min
Spring N for Grazing
Welcome to our second podcast episode of 2026. Today, we’re diving into grazing management with Yara’s Grassland Agronomist, Philip Cosgrave. Philip breaks down the recent variations in grass growth across farms and offers strategic advice for dairy farmers looking to balance cost control with productivity. We also cover specific application strategies using YaraBela NutriBooster and YaraMila ExtraGrass, alongside expert tips on optimizing your nitrogen timing for the season ahead.

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