Xavier Hébert-Couturier
Tissue analysis is an essential tool for managing crop health, but many growers wonder: how exactly do you implement it effectively to make informed decisions? While the sampling process—collecting samples and detecting nutrient values—might seem straightforward, the real challenge lies in understanding the data and acting on it effectively. In this guide, we’ll break down the major factors to consider when implementing tissue sampling to optimize your crop management decisions. 1. Collaborating with Agronomists
At Picketa, we provide the data, but it’s the agronomists who transform that data into actionable recommendations. By working with a trusted local agronomist, you can integrate real-time tissue analysis with other vital factors like soil health, weather conditions, and recent field treatments. Agronomists take all these into account when prescribing nutrient management plans.
Pro Tip: Start by partnering with agronomists who are familiar with real-time tissue analysis tools, such as Picketa Systems LENS. Find a vendor here.
2. Setting the Right Sampling Frequency
Before the season begins, determine what you want to learn from tissue sampling. This will guide how often you sample and the density of those samples. This varies depending on the crop. For instance, high-value crops like potatoes often require weekly tissue tests, while broadacre crops like corn might only need one or two tests throughout the season. To get the most out of your sampling, time it around fertilizer applications. Testing a few weeks before application helps identify deficiencies early and creates a baseline to follow throughout the season. One common pitfall is not sampling frequently enough. If you only test once or twice a season, you might miss critical changes in nutrient levels, leading to reactive, rather than proactive, management.
3. Choosing Representative Sample Locations
The next step in creating the right tissue analysis program for your farm is determining where to collect samples. Agronomists typically identify key fields and representative zones before the season begins. A common approach is to sample in a grid or in a ‘Z’ or ‘W’ pattern, covering a variety of field conditions. By covering larger areas with fewer samples, you maximize tissue analysis value while minimizing the number of samples collected. For even more insight, sample from various zones—like the best, worst, and average-performing areas of the field—to understand relative differences and guide nutrient application.
4. Analyzing the Data
After collecting enough samples to represent your field accurately, the next step is to analyze the data. Using the Picketa LENS, results are available in real-time, allowing you to take immediate action. Most growers begin by examining macronutrient levels (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, etc.) to detect deficiencies, sufficiencies, or excesses. Picketa’s Custom Critical Levels feature allows you to adjust thresholds based on factors like crop variety, region, or emergence date.
Focusing solely on absolute nutrient levels only tells part of the story. The real value comes from analyzing trends over time. For example, you might sample before and after a fertilizer application to monitor the crop’s nutrient uptake. If successful, you’ll see a clear increase in nutrient levels in the tissue, providing direct feedback on the effectiveness of your input strategy.
5. Understanding Nutrient Ratios
Experienced agronomists don’t just look at nutrient levels — they also focus on the ratios between key nutrients. This can reveal underlying issues, such as nutrient imbalances, that could be causing deficiencies or toxicities in the crop. Understanding these ratios helps guide the decision-making process, ensuring that the actions taken will lead to a healthier, more productive crop.
For example, in corn production, key nutrient ratios that agronomists closely monitor include the nitrogen (N) to potassium (K) ratio, the nitrogen (N) to phosphorus (P) ratio, and the calcium (Ca) to magnesium (Mg) ratio. These ratios are critical for maintaining balanced plant growth and maximizing yield. For instance, a N:K ratio that is too high may indicate that while nitrogen levels are sufficient, potassium is lacking, which could hinder root development and water uptake. Conversely, an imbalanced N:P ratio can affect energy transfer within the plant, limiting growth. The Ca:Mg ratio is also essential for cell wall strength and nutrient transport. If calcium is too high relative to magnesium, it can lead to magnesium deficiency, affecting chlorophyll production and photosynthesis.
By keeping an eye on nutrient ratios, agronomists can fine-tune fertilization plans, correcting imbalances to ensure the best possible conditions for plant growth.
6. Communicating Field Events
Major field events, like weather changes or input applications, can significantly affect nutrient uptake and should be communicated to your agronomist. Seed variety and planting conditions also play a role, and working closely with your agronomist ensures that all these factors are considered in your crop management strategy. Some events can affect the timing of your tissue sampling program. For example, after rainfall or a fertilizer application, it’s often advisable to wait at least 24 hours (rain) or 3 days (input) before sampling again. Keeping track of these events ensures your tissue sampling aligns with optimal conditions for accurate data.
7. Use the Right Tools – the Picketa LENS
Picketa LENS analyzes 13 critical nutrients, providing a comprehensive view of what’s happening in your fields. Unlike traditional tissue sampling, which involves shipping samples to a lab and waiting days or weeks for results, the LENS provides real-time feedback. This quick turnaround time makes nutrient management much more efficient, enabling faster, more data-driven decisions for agronomists and growers.
8. ROI of Tissue Sampling
Tissue sampling provides a clear return on investment (ROI) for growers. By identifying nutrient deficiencies early, you can avoid applying unnecessary fertilizers, which saves money on inputs. Additionally, by optimizing nutrient application based on real-time data, tissue sampling can help improve yields and prevent yield loss caused by imbalances.
For example, tissue analysis can reveal hidden deficiencies before they cause visible damage, allowing you to adjust your nutrient management plan proactively. The upfront investment in sampling and analysis often results in healthier crops, reduced input costs, and better long-term soil health. In high-value crops like potatoes, even a small improvement in yield can translate into significant financial gains, making tissue sampling a worthwhile investment.
Final Thoughts
At Picketa, our mission is to make nutrient management as seamless and efficient as possible. By providing easy access to real-time data and fostering collaboration between growers and agronomists, we’re helping to create a future where decisions are backed by solid, timely information.
Ready to get started with real-time tissue sampling? Contact us today at www.picketa.com/contact to learn more about how the Picketa LENS can improve your crop management strategy.
Was great to write this blog post for general tips on approaching tissue sampling - though there's so much more ground to cover when getting into the details!
What tips would you advice a farmer looking to get into tissue sampling to maximize their efforts?
Would love to hear!
- Xavier H.C., Co-Founder of Picketa Systems