Fall Fertilizer Dos and Don'ts

Do’s and Do Not’s of Fall Fertilizer 

Harvest might still be in full swing, but before long, our focus shifts to what’s next: setting up your fields for success in 2026. This year, tighter margins and unpredictable markets result in the importance of making sure that every pass across your field, and every pound of fertilizer, counts. 

Applying fertilizer can benefit your crops by building root systems and improving nutrient storage. This allows for your crops to build stamina and all nutrients to be ready for early spring growth. 

Don’t Cut Corners On Your Nitrogen 

When prices tighten, it can be tempting to cut back on nitrogen applications. Although this may seem like the best way to save money at first, this can lead to lower yields that can cost you, and your operation, more money in the long run. Your crops still need the nutrients they rely on. The goal is to make sure those nutrients are there when and where your crops need them most. 

Pro Tip: We recommend a stabilizer with every Nitrogen application. StayPoint N-Snare is built to extend nitrogen availability and uptake and reduce nitrogen loss for your NH3 applications. 

Don’t Overlook Potash and MAP 

Potassium and phosphorus are the unsung heroes of fall fertility. These nutrients play a huge role in root development, winter hardiness, and early spring vigor. This means that your decisions made this fall are already laying out the foundation for next year’s success. 

The choices you make now directly influence how your crop performs when it matters most next season. 

This is where Unchained comes into play. Unchained is designed to help your P & K work efficiently by accelerating the breakdown of treated dry fertilizers and converting nutrients to a more plant available form. This enhances root growth, early season vigor, and plant development. 

Application Tip: If you are applying P & K this fall, pairing it with Unchained can maximize the plant available form of the nutrients. This is especially valuable if you’re spreading early or dealing with unpredictable fall weather. 
 

Do Earn Rewards While You Plan Ahead 

When you purchase qualifying fertilizer products this fall, you will earn Five Star Bucks. These bucks can specifically go towards: 

• Seed for next spring 

• Crop protection products 

• NexStar crop performance 

Through Five Star Bucks, this is our way of saying Thank You for partnering with us and giving you a little extra value for planning ahead. 

We know this year hasn’t been easy. But standing together – through smart planning, shared insights, and cooperative rewards, we believe we can come out stronger. If you have questions about fall fertilizer availability, pricing or want to explore how to earn Five Star Bucks, connect with your local Five Star agronomist.