Finding the "Sweet Spot" for Sweeter Beets

Jenny Phillips, Director of Marketing • Feb 01, 2024

When it comes to farming, the Red River Valley is one of the most fertile farming areas in the world. For four generations Gary Wagner and his family have carved their living on what has grown to 5,000 dryland acres in Crookston, MN: sugar beets, wheat, soybeans and navy (edible) beans. Some of their success has been attributed to two sustainable product lines which continue to prove their worth in providing early and faster growth, more healthy plants and cost-effective returns on investment: Calcine® and nanotechnology-based products from Aqua-Yield®.


Jim and Darcy Erickson of Erickson Custom Operations (ECO) have built a successful business based on these two product lines, and Gary Wagner is one of their first growers to have used both product lines and continues to push the limits of these great technologies. Wagner is very pleased with the synergies he sees with Calcine and Aqua-Yield product working together to stimulate fast and more healthy growth, especially with his sugar beet crop.


The sugar beet season begins with NanoPro®: “With recommendations from Jim Erickson and Tom Vander Heiden of ST Biologicals we immediately get a start controlling our ragweed using NanoPro,” says Wagner. “We couldn’t get complete control with our herbicide, so that is a big plus for us. Now, every application contains NanoPro.” At just 4 oz/ac, farmers across the country are seeing nice control of weeds when applying NanoPro with their herbicides.


Next is addressing the high salt issues. High salt levels cause farm ground to become heavily compacted, lowering the amount of nutrients available in the soil, ultimately lowering producer’s profit yield. When applied, Calcine opens up the soil, releasing the natural nutrients reducing salt levels allowing quicker emergence of seed when planted.


“So to start we put in (4 oz) NanoPhos® with the Calcine… we blended the two as a starter fertilizer putting it down in the same seed tube. It basically touches the sugar beet seed itself,” Wagner says. The Calcine does a tremendous job in neutralizing very high salt levels in the soil. “The result we see - the Calcine opens up the soil, releasing natural nutrients and that means we get quicker emergence of seed when planted.”


With better control on weeds and salty soils, Wagner then focuses on nutrition. “We use (4 oz) NanoK® to enhance our sugar in our sugar beets. Two applications of that during the fungicide season. We’ve always been right close to the valley average for sugar content. But it seems like the last couple of years we started using NanoK we’re running just maybe a half percent better in sugar content, and in fact 2023 saw a near record-breaking crop for us."


"With Aqua-Yield products, you can get to your 8 leaf stage quicker, which makes producers happier in case the area is hit with an August frost, hail damage or wind. The plant has a head start," Wagner says. And of course, with nanotechnology, “less is more”. “I’m a technology guy,” says Wagner. "And using Calcine while mixing several of the Aqua-Yield product line is almost like, 'technology meets agriculture'."


The biggest decision for Wagner last year: cutting back overall usage. He states, "Usually we put 3.5 gallons per acre of 10-34-0 down with the seed and it gave us a little bit of seed burn, and for us cutting back to 2 gallons per acre of 10-34-0 and putting nano products with that was a big step for us." By reducing the amount of 10-34-0 Wagner was also able to reduce the salt load while pushing for better delivery of nitrogen and phosphorus to the plant through nanotechnology.


There has to be a bottom line, and for Gary Wagner, it was both a larger sugar beet crop with more sugar this last year. "We were up almost a full percent more in sugar content this year” he says. "Try it, Try it. Prove it to yourself. It might not be a miracle product, but it does help. I’m a believer."


FOR MORE INFORMATION ON INCORPORATING CALCINE & AQUA-YIELD INTO YOUR SUGAR BEET PROGRAM, CONTACT:

701-371-7184

erickson.customoperations@outlook.com

www.ericksoncustomoperations.com


Have a question or want to learn more?  Fill out the form below:

Huge issue in the farming community and we need to have more resources for suicide prevention.
By Brooke Rosqvist, Marketing Manager 14 May, 2024
Farming often carries a heavy burden of stress and isolation. Studies consistently reveal that farmer suicide rates are alarmingly higher, ranging from 2 to 5 times the national average. Farmers face unique challenges—from natural disasters to financial uncertainties— all taking a toll on their mental health. It's time to stop the stigma surrounding mental wellness in agriculture and extend a hand to those who need support. After all, the future of agriculture depends on the well-being of its stewards. Why Farmers are at Risk: In rural communities, the taboo to start a conversation around mental health stifles and prevents those in need from seeking help. There's a common misconception that admitting to struggles is a sign of weakness, rather than a testament to human resilience. The pressures of financial instability, unpredictable weather, and the relentless demands of farming increases stress levels. When left unaddressed, this chronic stress can spiral into depression, enveloping individuals who contribute so much to our society. Signs Someone May Be Struggling: Recognizing the signs of mental health challenges is crucial for intervention. Changes in their behavior, withdrawal from their social interactions, increased accidents on the farm, neglect of animals, and a decline in personal appearance or farm upkeep can all indicate someone is struggling. By staying vigilant and observant, we can extend a helping hand to those in need. Ways to Take Action: It's not enough to encourage struggling farmers to seek help; we must also empower their loved ones to initiate conversations about mental health. Simple gestures like regular check-ins, offering assistance with farm tasks, or providing a listening ear can make a world of difference. These small acts of compassion can break through the walls of isolation and offer a glimmer of hope. Breaking the Stigma: Invite ways to have open dialogue and foster conversations about mental health within your farming communities. We can challenge misconceptions and pave the way for acceptance and support. As James Dixon of the Arkansas Farm Bureau aptly stated, “seeking help is an act of strength, not weakness”. It is this act of strength that saved his own life. Let's redefine resilience as the courage to ask for help when it's needed most. Conclusion: Together, we have the power to transform farming culture into one that prioritizes mental wellness. Let's remain vigilant for signs of distress among our friends, families, and colleagues and have the courage to speak up. By extending compassion and support, we sow the seeds for a healthier, more resilient agricultural community. Resources for Help: National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 / www.988lifeline.org Farm Family Wellness Alliance: www.farmfoundation.org/resources/farm-family-wellness-alliance/ AgriStress Helpline: 833-897-2474 (call or text) / www.agrisafe.org/agristress-helpline/ Anxiety and Depression Association of America: www.adaa.org Sourced Site: https://www.fb.org/initiative/farm-state-of-mind 
Highlighting dealers that use Turf NanoTech products.
By Phil Dwyer, GM of Turfgrass Products 10 May, 2024
As the sun rises over pristine greens and gentle breeze flows through the trees, golf enthusiasts worldwide prepare to celebrate Golf Day, a tribute to the sport that unites players in pursuit of precision and passion. At Turf NanoTech™, we're not just dedicated to enhancing golfing experiences; we're committed to revolutionizing them.  On this special occasion, we want to shine a spotlight on the heroes behind the scenes: our dealers who have embraced our cutting-edge nanotechnology, particularly our flagship product, NanoCharge™. With our slogan of "Get Charged," we're ready to showcase how NanoCharge increases turf uptake of your spray inputs.
How NanoCharge will improve turf with the power of nanotechnology.
By Brooke Rosqvist 07 May, 2024
Welcome to the future of turf management with NanoCharge™, the revolutionary nano fertilizer adjuvant from Turf NanoTech (TNT) designed specifically for professional turf maintenance. Whether you're tending to finely tuned golf courses, athletic fields or lawns, NanoCharge is your ultimate companion in achieving top performing turf. Get Charged with NanoCharge Our slogan isn't just a catchy phrase; it's a promise of unparalleled performance. NanoCharge is not your average adjuvant—it's a game-changer. With its advanced nanotechnology, NanoCharge enhances the uptake of a wide array of crucial turf care products, including fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, plant growth regulators (PGRs), biological metabolites, and insecticides. Say goodbye to subpar results and hello to turf that thrives under your expert care.
Explaining what nanotechnology is.
By Brooke Rosqvist, Marketing Manager 30 Apr, 2024
Nanoparticles in Fertilizers: Revolutionizing Plant Growth In the quest for sustainable agricultural practices, scientists are delving into the realm of nanotechnology to enhance the efficiency of fertilizers and optimize plant growth. Nanoparticles, which are tiny structures at the nanometer scale, are being integrated into fertilizers to revolutionize the way nutrients are delivered into plants. This innovative approach has become a game-changing solution for improving crop yields and enhancing the quality of agricultural crops.  Understanding Nanoparticles Nanoparticles are minuscule particles with dimensions ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers (see figure 1). At this scale, materials exhibit unique physical, chemical, and biological properties that differ from their bulk counterparts. These properties make nanoparticles highly versatile and applicable in various fields, including agriculture.
Get Coated with NanoCote Core's Nanotechnology for Granular Fertilizer!
By Brooke Rosqvist, Marketing Manager 17 Apr, 2024
In the world of agriculture, innovation is the key to sustainability and productivity. Nano-Yield™ proudly highlights its new brand NanoCote™, a groundbreaking granular coating that has set a new standard in the industry. With its revolutionary formula infused with nanoparticles, its flagship product NanoCote Core is transforming the way we approach coating for granular fertilizers. The Power of NanoCote NanoCote Core isn't just another coating – it's a game-changer. Unlike traditional coatings, NanoCote Core harnesses the power of nanotechnology to provide unmatched benefits for both farmers and blenders. Here's how NanoCote Core is reshaping the landscape of granular fertilizers:
Nano-Yield and COMPO EXPERT
By Brooke Rosqvist, Marketing Manager 15 Apr, 2024
In a groundbreaking move poised to revolutionize Mexican agribusiness, Nano-Yield™ and COMPO EXPERT® Mexico have inked a collaborative agreement. This partnership marks a new era of sustainable and cutting-edge nanotechnology solutions for farmers across the country. Under this agreement, Nano-Yield will supply COMPO EXPERT with a suite of patented nano-based crop nutrition products. These innovative solutions promise to significantly enhance nutrient delivery to both specialty crops and row crops throughout Latin America.  COMPO EXPERT Mexico, a leading international agricultural company renowned for its high-quality specialty fertilizers and biostimulants, operates four fertilizer plants and serves growers in over 100 countries. By integrating Nano-Yield's nanoliquid technology solutions, COMPO EXPERT aims to optimize the efficiency of its liquid and dry products, providing growers with sustainable solutions tailored to their needs.
Sevrin Anderson talking all things Aqua-Yield.
By Brooke Rosqvist, Marketing Manager 12 Apr, 2024
In a recent interview on Agweek TV, Sevrin Anderson, a fifth-generation farmer from Drayton, North Dakota, shared his experiences and successes with Nano-Yield™, and its liquid brand Aqua-Yield® products. Partnering with ECO, a trusted distributor in the region, Anderson has integrated these innovative solutions into his farming practices for the past four years, yielding impressive results. Anderson begins by discussing the science behind nanoparticles, emphasizing their unique hollow structure. These nanoparticles serve as effective carriers for various agricultural inputs, including micronutrients, macronutrients, and pesticides. Leveraging the mechanism of endocytosis, these nanoparticles facilitate the efficient uptake and utilization of essential components by plants. When asked about his application methods, Anderson highlights the versatility of Aqua-Yield products throughout the farming season. He incorporates them into his pre-program applications in the spring, applies them foliarly during the growing season, and utilizes them post-harvest. Each product serves a specific purpose: NanoCS® enhances starter solutions for sugar beets, NanoPro® improves the efficacy of glyphosate for expedited absorption by the beets, NanoK® boosts sugar content in sugar beets, and NanoPack® enhances soybean production. Regardless of the application method or timing, these products are integral to Anderson's year-round farming regimen. When questioned about his continued use of Aqua-Yield products, Anderson underscores the tangible success and ease of integration into his production practices. Unlike previous alternatives, Nano-Yield solutions have consistently delivered superior outcomes, demonstrating their efficacy and reliability. The partnership between Anderson, ECO, and Nano-Yield exemplifies a collaborative approach to sustainable agriculture, leveraging cutting-edge technology to optimize crop yields and enhance farm profitability. Through ongoing innovation and collaboration, farmers like Anderson are poised to meet the evolving demands of modern agriculture while ensuring environmental stewardship and long-term viability. WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW HERE
Get Loaded! Aqua-Yield's innovative nanoliquid fertilizer technology.
By Brooke Rosqvist, Marketing Manager 09 Apr, 2024
In the dynamic world of agriculture, innovation is key to unlocking the full potential of our crops. One such innovation that is revolutionizing the way we nourish plants is Nano-Yield, with its flagship brand Aqua-Yield leading the charge. With the simple yet powerful slogan, "Get Loaded," Aqua-Yield is on a mission to redefine agricultural practices through the transformative power of nanotechnology.  The Nano Advantage At the heart of the Aqua-Yield brand’s success lies its groundbreaking use of nanoparticles in liquid fertilizers. These tiny particles pack a mighty punch, enhancing the nutrient absorption capabilities of plants and leading to unparalleled growth and yield. By loading these nanoparticles with macro and micronutrients tailored to specific crop needs, Aqua-Yield ensures that plants receive precisely what they need for optimal health and productivity.
More Posts
Share by: