Harvest is officially getting underway, and the team at Next Level Ag is keeping a close eye on crop conditions, field progress and the opportunities already taking shape for next season.
With some pre-piled beets harvested and early progress being made on black beans and soybeans, the first indications are encouraging. A little rain has slowed things down, but overall, crops throughout much of the area are looking promising.
After a challenging growing season last year, seeing strong crop potential this year has farmers and the Next Level Ag team looking forward to seeing how fertility programs, new seed varieties and on-farm trials perform once harvest gets fully underway.
Harvest May Be Just Getting Started, But Planning for Next Year Isn't
While combines aren't running across every field yet, conversations about next year's crop are already happening.
This time of year provides an opportunity to look back at what worked, evaluate fertility programs and seed varieties, and start making decisions for the next growing season.
One of the biggest conversations happening right now is how farmers can manage fertility costs without sacrificing the nutrients their soils and crops need.
Making Fertility Dollars Work Harder
With input costs and availability always part of the equation, there are opportunities to rethink how fertility is applied.
Through AgroLiquid programs, farmers can look at several different strategies depending on their operation. One approach is to reduce some dry fertilizer applications while increasing in-furrow applications and focusing more attention on micronutrients and other products that can help improve nutrient efficiency.
Another option is a more complete liquid fertility program that incorporates phosphorus, potassium, nitrogen and other nutrients through in-furrow or other application methods.
The right approach isn't the same for every farm. That's why the Next Level Ag team focuses on understanding each operation before developing a plan.
Storage capacity, application equipment, logistics, existing fertility programs and individual farm goals all play a role in determining what makes sense.
The goal is to build a fertility strategy that manages costs while continuing to provide the crop with the nutrients it needs for successful growth.
Liquid Fertility Requires the Right Storage and Equipment
For farmers considering a move toward more liquid fertilizer, the conversation doesn't stop with the fertility program. Storage and delivery need to be part of the plan, too.
That's where the
Stoneham Equipment Co. side of the business comes in.
After using the first year to refine its trailer offerings, the team is continuing to build and stock fertilizer tanks and trailers so farmers can have equipment ready when their fertilizer decisions are made.
Standard plumbing options are available, including 2-inch and 3-inch setups, while the team can also make modifications to fit the specific needs of an operation.
The goal is simple: provide equipment that works for the way you farm.
Nurse Trailers and Custom Solutions
Next Level Ag and Stoneham Equipment Co. are also continuing to expand their nurse trailer options.
The team has already built multiple nurse trailers, including a larger model with a platform and a smaller 1,300-gallon model without a platform.
As the season continues, the team plans to develop additional models and sizes based on what works best for area farmers.
For operations looking to improve their liquid fertilizer handling and application capabilities, these trailers can provide another piece of the overall solution.
Programs Can Help Offset Equipment Costs
Moving toward a liquid fertility program can sometimes require an investment in additional equipment, whether that means modifying a planter, adding a side-dress system, increasing storage capacity or improving delivery capabilities.
AgroLiquid offers programs designed to help offset some of those costs.
Depending on the operation and the equipment being added or modified, these programs may provide an opportunity to make the transition to a different fertility strategy more manageable.
The Next Level Ag team can help farmers look at the available options and determine what may fit their operation.
More Than Fertility
Fertility and seed aren't the only conversations happening at Next Level Ag this time of year.
As the spraying season winds down, farmers may also be thinking about sprayer parts, repairs and upgrades. Next Level Ag has parts available for late-season needs and can help farmers prepare their equipment for the next season.
The team is also continuing to work with water van trailers. Whether you're looking for a complete trailer, parts to retrofit an existing trailer or a custom-built solution, Next Level Ag can help explore the options.
Seed Planning Starts Now
Seed decisions are also moving forward as farmers begin looking toward next year's crop.
Next Level Ag is currently working with farmers on seed orders and upcoming financing deadlines. If you're considering an order, now is the time to start the conversation and make sure you understand the available options and deadlines.
Planning early can help ensure you're prepared when spring arrives.
Take Your Farm to the Next Level
Harvest is a busy time, but it is also one of the best opportunities to start thinking about what comes next.
From reviewing this year's crop performance to planning fertility programs, ordering seed, improving liquid fertilizer storage and upgrading equipment, the decisions made this fall can help set the stage for a successful growing season ahead.
At Next Level Ag, we're here to help you work through those decisions and develop solutions that fit your farm — from fertility and seed to equipment, storage and delivery.
Have questions about next year's fertility program, seed orders, tanks, trailers or equipment? Reach out to the Next Level Ag team. We're ready to help you take your farm to the next level.
Next Level Ag wishes everyone a safe and prosperous harvest.
