Over many trials spanning many years, the importance and beneficial nature of using starter fertilizer in winter wheat has been well documented – with the historical results being so expansive, it’s hard for me to add much more to the discussion! However, there is a little nutrient that even the best of us often forget about – Zinc!  It may be a micronutrient, and only needed in small quantities, but it plays a major role in the growth hormone production for plants. 

The importance of early root development in any crop, especially in winter wheat, cannot be stressed enough.  A large, healthy root system to endure winter hibernation is essential for maximizing yield potential.  By adding a little zinc to your starter program, you are adding not only one, but the two main ingredients for this essential early root development – P and Zn.  Forgetting to add Zn to your starter can mean the difference between an excellent wheat yield and just an average one.  You wouldn’t build a house without a foundation…….. so why would you let your winter wheat start without its best possible advantage?  Join the Zinc nation and give your wheat every chance to succeed!

– Jeremy