HANNAH AMMANN, FARMRX SITE SPECIFIC AG SPECIALIST
Even with early snow events starting last fall and fluctuating winter temperatures, much of our region remains abnormally dry as of December 31, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
Looking ahead, both the National Weather Service and the Old Farmer’s Almanac are forecasting a cooler, wetter spring. Lingering snow coverage could potentially delay planting in certain areas. There’s also the possibility of a La Niña to El Niño transition, which may bring warmer and wetter conditions later in the 2026 growing season.
Image Source: weather.gov/arx/winter2526outlook
Of course, weather predictions are just that, predictions. While they provide valuable insight, they’re never guaranteed. The best approach is to stay flexible and use tools that help you adapt to changing conditions.
One such tool is Adapt-N.
ADAPT-N: A SMARTER WAY TO MANAGE NITROGEN
Adapt-N is a predictive nitrogen model designed to help corn growers manage nitrogen applications more effectively throughout the season.
How It Works
Adapt-N uses real-time weather data, soil conditions, and field-specific information to model nitrogen availability and loss. This is especially useful during the critical June–July window, when sidedress or Y-drop applications are typically made.
Why Use It
- Ideal for fields with fall-applied NH3 or manure, which are more susceptible to nitrogen loss.
- Great for strip-till systems, especially when nitrogen is applied in multiple passes (fall and spring or spring plus sidedress).
- Responsive to wet years like 2019 and 2024, when nitrogen loss can vary greatly by field.
- Backed by over a decade of on-farm use and university validation
- 2024: +21 bu/acre yield increase with Adapt-N guided sidedress applications
- 2023: +8 bu/acre yield increase using the same approach
PLAN AHEAD WITH CONFIDENCE
As you look toward the 2026 season, now is the time to start planning your nutrient strategy. Tools like Adapt-N can help you maximize ROI, reduce nitrogen loss, and make more informed decisions in a year where weather could play a bigger role than expected. Talk to your NuWay-K&H Agronomy Account Manager to learn more about Adapt-N and how to integrate it into your operation.