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XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
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XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Farming Podcast | Cotton Trials & ROI Fertility Strategies
This episode of the Cutting The Curve – farming podcast previews the June 2025 XtremeAg field day in McGehee, Arkansas, led by Matt and Layne Miles. Cotton trials are front and center this year. The event highlights ROI fertility strategies, low-nitrogen trials, and partner-led field plots designed to cut input costs and boost yields. Listeners will hear about lessons learned from last year’s plot challenges and get a sneak peek into precision irrigation and harvesting tech that helps farmers improve farm profitability and make data-driven farming decisions. Presented by Nachurs
2025-05-26
27 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Farming Podcast | Cost-Efficient Fertility & 30-Inch Soybeans | XtremeAg
This episode of the Cutting The Curve – farming podcast features Fertilizer for Soybeans trials from Chad Henderson’s 2025 Alabama field day. In this episode of the Cutting the Curve podcast, Chad Henderson previews his May 22, 2025, XtremeAg field day in Madison, Alabama. Key agronomic demonstrations include 30-inch soybean fertility strategies, skip-row and circular corn planting, and strip-till vs. conventional systems. Participating companies—Nachurs, AgroLiquid, Spraytec, ADS, and Concept AgriTek—will showcase input programs focused on plant health, fertilizer efficiency, and real-world application. The event will also explore irrigation water quality testing and its impact on nutri...
2025-05-12
16 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Farming Podcast | Hiring an Agronomist for Farm Success | XtremeAg
This episode of the Cutting The Curve - farming podcast features a deep dive into the value of hiring an agronomist. Johnny Verell and Brian Adams explain how to build a support system of consultants, crop scouts, and agronomic advisors that improve efficiency, reduce mistakes, and deliver a better bottom line. Learn what to ask for in a scouting contract, how to measure agronomic ROI, and how the right expert team can scale to any size operation. Presented by Nachurs Bio-K
2025-04-28
44 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Farming Podcast | How a Faster Sprayer Fill System Adds Acres & ROI with Temple Rhodes
This episode of the Cutting The Curve farming podcast explores how the faster sprayer system from Dura Products is transforming farm operations by cutting costs and boosting productivity. Temple Rhodes of XtremeAg reveals how his team now fills sprayers in just five minutes, sprays an additional 100 acres per day, and has completely eliminated chemical handling risks. With simplified trailer setups, safer chemical mixing, and a plug-and-play design, this system delivers rapid ROI for both farmers and commercial applicators. If you're looking to maximize sprayer efficiency, this episode delivers the insights you need. Cutting The Curve Farming Podcast...
2025-04-21
24 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Farming Podcast | Bringing the Department of Phosphorus Efficiency to Your Farm | Reduce Costs, and Improve Crop Yields
This episode of the Cutting The Curve farming podcast dives into phosphorus efficiency, focusing on how to get phosphorus into soil effectively. Damian Mason hosts experts from AgroTech USA and XtremeAg, who discuss how farmers can raise phosphorus levels in soil through optimized fertility programs. They reveal practical strategies to reduce input costs, improve crop yields, and combat phosphorus deficiency in plants while enhancing soil health. This episode is crucial for anyone looking to boost their nutrient management practices while keeping more money in their pockets.
2025-03-27
38 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Used Farm Machinery Buying Guide: Will Prices Come Down?
The supply chain disruptions you heard so much about from 2020 through 2022 unsettled the machinery market. Now in 2024, the farm equipment marketplace is still adjusting. Inventory of used machines has been climbing rapidly over the last year. This run up in supply should equate to lower sale prices…but it’s not. Casey Seymour of Moving Iron LLC and host of The Moving Iron podcast, provides a market update and outlook. If you’re looking to update your fleet, listen to this for Casey’s advice on buying farm machinery. Presented by CLAAS
2024-04-18
38 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Fixing Poor Ground: Transforming Marginal Farm Land into Profitable Acreage.
In this informative podcast episode, Damian Mason talks to Concept AgriTek Agronomist Bert Riggan and XtremeAg’s Kelly Garrett about methods to enhance underperforming farm land. Uncover practical tips and strategies for increasing ROI on your least productive farm acres. Learn how to change your approach and farming practices to turn 'poor' ground into a profitable asset. Tune in for expert insights on maximizing farming profits through land optimization. Presented by Advanced Drainage Systems
2024-01-18
36 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Is your Grain Bin Facility Making You Money?
The grain storage facilities on today's modern farms are larger than the local elevator of just a few decades ago. With size and scale comes a huge deployment of capital (and planning!). Johnny Verell sits down with Damian to explain how he went from essentially no on-farm grain storage in 2006 (they grew mostly cotton) to having a huge, modern grain facility today. Johnny explains the things he planned right and the things he wishes he’d considered at inception. Your grain facility is a HUGE, expensive piece of infrastructure. Listen to this for ideas on making it future proof! Presented by...
2024-01-16
33 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Farm, Family, Business and a Lasting Legacy
Unfortunately, many farm families end up with fractured relationships at the time of transition. This can all be prevented according to Farm Family Coach, Elaine Froese. Do you have a transition plan in place for your farm? Is the next generation involved in your farming operation, and if so, are they equity holders in the farm? What about the non-farming siblings — should their inheritance be the same as the farming siblings? If you’re involved in a family farming operation, it’s time to share your vision for the future, then put a plan together to make it reality. This episod...
2024-01-09
41 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
How Autonomous Machinery Will Change Your Farm
Intelligent labor — as Matt Miles calls it — is always a challenge to find, hire, and keep employed. With equipment costing hundreds of thousands of dollars, you can’t just turn anyone loose in your fields. Labor is one compelling case for autonomous machinery but issues of economics, timeliness, and environment are other reasons autonomy will change your farm. Soon! Brandon Montgomery, Brand Manager for Fendt joins Matt and Damian for this future-looking episode. Presented by Advanced Drainage Systems
2024-01-04
37 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Maximizing Crop Health in 2024: Achieving Plant Balance and Sustainable Farming
Kelly Garrett set out to make stress reduction for his crops an overriding theme for 2022. Damian Mason sits down with Kelly who explains what a balanced plant is and why he’s focusing on this subject. Maximization of inputs, yield bump, disease pressure reduction, and issues of sustainability are four benefits Kelly plans on attaining from his new focus of plant balance. What’s your big 2024 objective?
2023-12-31
17 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Machinery Decisions That Make Money
Modern farms have huge dollars tied up in equipment, but does that equipment provide an ROI? Johnny Verell joins Steve Simon of Simon Innovations and host Damian Mason to discuss machinery decisions and equipment upgrades. Are you upgrading equipment just to keep up with the neighbors? Does that shiny machine you saw at the farm show really need to be in your tool shed? We dig into the money side of equipment upgrades. As Johnny’s grandfather advised him, “Son, a man can justify anything he wants” but is it really a good financial decision? Presented by Advanced Drainage Systems
2023-12-29
24 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Changing Equipment for Better Farming Results
Does your machinery match the methods for how you can best run your farm? Johnny Verell is making several changes on his Tennessee farm to increase efficiencies while producing better crops. He’s changing out his 20-inch planters for 30-inch units, which means he’s also changing out his corn heads and adjusting his sprayer routine. Mr. Verell explains his equipment changes to XA’s Damian Mason. One big reason for the change: reduction of late season corn loss during sprayer treatments. Presented by Advanced Drainage Systems
2023-12-27
18 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Getting Your Sprayer Ready For Spring with Proper Winterization
Lee Lubbers, a meticulous advocate for sprayer maintenance, ensures his two units undergo rigorous rinsing and blowing with every product change. Additionally, he conducts extensive cleaning and winterizes the sprayers before seasonal storage. Highlighting more than just preventive care, Lee underscores the risks of damaged crops and weed problems linked to inadequate sprayer cleaning. Joined by Nick Fleitz, a dedicated 'sprayer geek' from Pentair, they emphasize the criticality of thorough sprayer maintenance. Presented by Advanced Drainage Systems
2023-12-25
31 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Is Your Succession Plan Going To Leave A Mess For Your Family?
We proudly say in Agriculture that 97% of America’s farms are family operations. That’s cool. But these farms are also businesses. With a lot of moving parts. And, a boat load of financial capital in play along with hefty assets. Sadly, about 80% of farming operations don’t have a succession plan in place. That’s irresponsible from a business perspective but it’s even more damaging — in many cases — for the family relationships that make the farm go. Ben Hansen with Gross & Company of Iowa joins Damian to discuss the legal, financial, and personal side of estate planning. Farming is your legacy...
2023-12-22
35 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Taking Back Control: Key Farming Decisions For The Upcoming Year
In the latest XtremeAg discussion, Bert Riggan of Concept Agritek, along with Temple Rhodes and Damian Mason from XtremeAg, delves into the critical subject of farmers reclaiming control over their farming operations. This insightful conversation addresses a common scenario where farmers, burdened by the multitude of decisions such as product selection, application timing, and agronomic practices, often resort to delegating these choices to Ag retailers or consultants. This delegation, while seemingly convenient, can lead to farmers losing actual control over their farms. Bert Riggan, with his extensive expertise, alongside Temple Rhodes and Damian Mason, explores the reasons behind this trend...
2023-12-18
37 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Hope Doesn’t Pay the Bills - A Discussion with XA Member Charlie Leager
Charlie Leager left the Maryland family farm as a young man because there was no room for him in the operation. In 2020 — as a middle aged man and owner of a construction business — he took over the reins of the farm when his dad suddenly passed away. At age 56 and about to embark on his fifth season as a full-time farmer, Charlie discusses the lessons he’s gleaned, changes he’s making, and the business side of farming. As Charlie says, “I watched my father and grandfather farm on hope, but hope doesn’t pay the bills.” Presented by Loveland Products
2023-12-12
44 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Money Mistakes & Financial Fixes For Your Farming Business
Another installment on the business side of farming, Ben Hansen joins Damian to outline common money mistakes he sees farming operations make and how to fix them. It’s not as sexy as high yield corn, admittedly, but understanding how to manage debt, keep records, and surround yourself with the right business advisors will guarantee you more longevity in farming than a year of good corn. Ben’s organization — Gross & Company of Dunlap, Iowa specializes in tax advisory and consultation for Agriculture. Ben outlines simple steps you can take to successfully manage your farm, which is indeed a business— so run it l...
2023-12-06
25 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Twin Row Versus Single Row: Corn & Soybean Results On Raised Beds
In the Arkansas delta, where cotton was king, cropping systems were dictated by what was good for cotton. When Matt Miles started producing corn in 2006, he planted single row corn on 38 inch spacing on raised beds with furrow irrigation between the beds. Then he experimented with twin rows atop each raised bed and the results have never varied — twin rows trump single rows by at least ten bushels per acre. Matt and Layne Miles explain the practices they employ to maximize twin row production. Presented by Loveland Products
2023-12-04
28 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Insights and Lessons Learned From 25 Years of Using Plant Growth Regulators
Lee Lubbers and his brother Terry surveyed their wheat in 1998 and determined they needed stronger plants to prevent lodging. Their search for a solution took them to the specialty crop arena where they discovered plant growth regulators. At the time, PGR’s weren’t commonly used in broad acre Ag outside of cotton. Even today, applying plant hormones to crops isn’t a widespread practice. Lee and Stoller’s Dale Hanke discuss Lee’s quarter century journey with applied plant hormones. Lee shares what he’s learned, and how he’s making bigger yields via PGR’s, even after a hailstorm nearly...
2023-11-30
35 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
High-Tech Grain Carts: How Grain Cart Advancements Are Transforming Harvest
Grain carts have evolved over the years, mostly in that they’ve become enormous. Aside from size, what else is happening with the ubiquitous implements running beside combines at harvest? Right hand discharge and dual augers are two new technologies already available. The future promises autonomous grain catchers, in-field grain reservoirs, and more. Damian talks to Demco’s Troy Woelber and Benji Vande Griend. Presented by Advanced Drainage Systems
2023-11-27
25 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Choosing the Right Lime for Your Farm: Tips From Kevin Matthews
In this episode of Cutting The Curve, Kevin shares his experience of switching to lime sourced from coastal areas or even from out of state. Understand why simply correcting soil pH isn't enough. Learn about the crucial calcium to magnesium ratio and its effect on soil composition. Matthews Farms observed immediate improvements in their fields after this change. How can the right lime can lead to balanced soils, enhanced porosity, increased organic matter, and more efficient fertilizer use. Remember, your closest lime source is not always your best lime source. Presented by Loveland Products
2023-11-22
19 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Overcoming Drought and Boosting Farm Yields
Lee Lubbers says farmers too often— and too early — give up on their crop. We get it. It’s hot. It’s dry. Things don’t look good and the prospect of bumping out a respectable yield seem unlikely. But, as Lee has learned, you gotta continue to round the bases even during a drought year like he just experienced. Lee explains to Damian how he’s adjusting for success in 2024 with amended practices he’s already performing. Presented by Loveland Products
2023-11-20
18 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
What agronomic adjustments can you make to create improved farming outcomes for next year?
What agronomic adjustments can you make to create improved outcomes for next year? Analyzing your soil tests, reviewing this year’s tissue samples, and paying close attention to your lesser farm ground. Those are just a few of the many recommendations from Bert Riggan, Agronomist with Concept AgriTek. Bert is joined by XA’s Temple Rhodes to talk through adjustments to improve farming results. Presented by Advanced Drainage Systems
2023-11-15
41 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Is it Genetics or Fertility?
Did seed genetics exist 20-30 years ago that could have gotten today's yields if managed correctly with fertility? Or are our fertility plans just that much better at getting the most out of seed genetics? Damian asks XtremeAg's Kevin Matthews and Nachurs' Jason Worley: "Is it the Chicken or the Egg?"
2023-11-15
08 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Cropping Mix Mastery: How Data Analytics Drives Successful Farming Decisions
Matt Miles is opting not to plant wheat this fall for 2024 harvest. Instead, he’s opting to plant full-season soybeans this spring, which is actually late winter in the Arkansas delta. Matt is making a cropping mix change based on price, manpower, moisture management, farm cost structure, and a few other reasons. He explains to Damian the analytics that go into his cropping decisions. Are you analyzing all aspects of your farm operation and financials to make cropping decisions? This episode will help you! Presented by Loveland Products
2023-11-14
29 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Making Cover Crops Work On Your Farm
Sometime between your crop's late reproductive stage and mid-winter, you have the opportunity to improve your soil quality and protect it from erosion by planting cover crops. Do you plant cover crops? Chances are, you don’t. Because most farm ground acres lay barren from harvest until planting. Kelly Garrett sees that as a mistake now that he’s seeing big results and financial returns after several years into his cover crop journey. Kelly is joined by Austin Tiefenthaler, a cover crop seed producer, with advice on incorporating cover crops into your operations. Presented by Loveland Products
2023-11-10
36 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Financial Fundamentals for the Beginning Farmer
Farming is a business with high capital investment and historically low margins. Successful farming depends on more than just high yields — navigating the financial aspects of the farm is crucial, especially when the farm economy tightens. We owe it to Ag’s next generation to prepare them with the financial fundamentals to succeed. Nutrien Financial’s John Maman discusses farm finance for the beginning farmer in this episode of Cutting The Curve. If you want your farming legacy to continue, please share this with the next generation! Presented by Loveland Products
2023-11-09
37 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Member Spotlight: How Fresh Ideas Fuel First Generation Farmer James Hepp
The Member Spotlight is on Iowa’s James Hepp. James — to put it lightly — isn't afraid to try new new things. He got into farming by crafting an arrangement with a retiring operator whose children wanted to retain the farm asset. James does cover crops, variable rate seeding, and a combo of no-till / strip-till. He does this all this with very modest machinery as he focuses on keeping the business side of his operation solvent. Aside from agronomics, James shares with Damian some financial and business tips that could help an aspiring young farmer get established. Presented by Advanced Drainage System
2023-11-06
33 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
A Soybean Seed Switch is Coming to Garrett Land & Cattle
After six years, Kelly Garrett is almost certain he’ll be switching from Enlist-traited soybeans to Dicamba-traited soybeans in 2024. He and agronomist Mike Wingrove discuss the reason they’re contemplating this decision. Essentially, it boils down to a herbicide resistant weed issue. Which, so far isn’t costing much of a yield drag but…why wait until it does? They share with Damian Mason how they'll make the soybean switch successful. Presented by Advanced Drainage Systems
2023-11-01
14 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Grain Bins and Dryers | What To Look For
Are grain bins all the same? How about dryers? They look the same and they all have the same function. But, their are some differences that are important for farmers to know about before purchasing their next bin or dryer. Damian Mason talks with Johnny Verrell, Chad Henderson and the experts at Superior Grain Equipment about the different options.
2023-10-27
15 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
The Mystery of The Missing Soybeans
Mike Evans, agronomist who works with Kelly Garrett, got called to the field when the combine operators knew they were losing beans but not sure why. Turns out, the soybean plants had pods so close to the ground the machine header was running over them, unable to pick them up. That’s why Mr. Evans contemplated changes in inputs to alleviate this problem. Next year they’re changing out a plant growth regulator. Listen to find out how they intend to make it work. Mike and Kelly talk to Damian Mason about it on this episode of Cutting The Curve. Pres...
2023-10-26
13 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
How Does Fall Residue Impact Summer Nutrients?
What you are doing in the fall — from the combine pass until the calendar flips to the new year — can have a big impact on nutrient availability for your crops come next summer. XA’s Matt Swanson explains how the impact of tillage, residue degradation products, or cover crops affect nutrient distribution and availability for next summer’s crop. A great discussion on a subject you’re probably not thinking enough about in this episode of Cutting The Curve with Damian Mason. Presented by Advanced Drainage Systems
2023-10-24
26 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
What is The Maximum Attainable Yield on Your Farm?
Damian talks with Kevin Matthews and Chad Henderson about where they think yield potential is and the limiting factors on their farms that are currently keeping them from getting there.
2023-10-23
11 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
The Hidden Cost of Too Much Fall Nitrogen: Soil Degradation & Reduced Yields?
As Kelly Garrett says, the holy grail of American Agriculture is corn production and for 50 years we’ve thought the key to more corn is more nitrogen. As it turns out, too much nitrogen in the Autumn can degrade soil biology so that you’re actually hurting yourself. XA’s Matt Swanson sits down with Damian Mason to discuss new findings on soil biology, understanding the nitrogen / carbon ratio, and the importance of water extractable carbon. Presented by Loveland Products
2023-10-19
27 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Smart Buying for the Season Ahead: Navigating Input Purchases in High Interest Times
Starting in August, farmers are presented with purchasing programs for next season’s inputs. Which inputs should you buy now? What programs make sense? How much different are purchase decisions in an era of higher interest rates? Those questions and more are addressed as Damian Mason sits down with Jarod Creed of JC Ag Financial and Iowa farmers Kelly Garrett and Jeremy Muff. Presented by AgXplore
2023-10-16
51 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Are You Spending Too Much on Fertilizer and Not Seeing The Results?
There is an economic principle that states that, after a certain point, each additional unit of input (like fertilizer) will result in progressively smaller increases in output (like crop yield). This means that there's an optimal amount of fertilizer for a given crop in a given soil, and beyond that point, you're just wasting money. Well, as it turns out, much — or maybe even most — of your applied Phosphorous and Potassium is unavailable for your crops. In the old days of inexpensive fertilizer this was less of a problem. However, as commodity prices dip and fertilizer prices remain elevated, you need...
2023-10-12
35 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Rescuing A Crop
We are talking about rescuing a crop from chemical damage. Temple Rhodes talks about the confluence of factors that stunted his early corn crop and most importantly, how he nursed it back to almost full recovery.
2023-10-08
11 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Member Spotlight: Russ Uselton — A First Gen Farmer Carving Out A Business On Rough Ground
Russ Uselton’s farm ground is so rough and rocky, he jokes that he looks south from his Tennessee perch and yearns for Chad Henderson’s red Alabama clay. All kidding aside, Russ — who started from scratch — is building a business on highly erodible, small patch farming, with a mixture of crops and cows. The first generation farmer bought cattle in 2005 and planted his first crop in 2018. Today he runs 200 cow-calf pairs on 1,000 acres of pasture and farms 500 acres of corn and soy. Russ talks to Damian about starting out, why he has to use cover crops, and the creativity required...
2023-10-05
29 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
The Role of Roots in Increasing Organic Matter In Your Soil
Contrary to what you may have heard, you CAN increase the organic matter percentage in your soil. And…it won’t take you a lifetime to do so. The key: Roots. Darren Hefty joins XtremeAg’s Lee Lubbers in a hugely informative and enlightening conversation with Damian Mason about the critical role roots play in upping the organic matter in soil. Lee and Darren explain how they’ve increased OM composition considerably on their farms through reduced tillage, cover crops, and fostering soil biology. If you don’t value organic matter, you will after hearing Darren provide some of the numbers —...
2023-10-03
35 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
The Art and Science of Spoonfeeding Soybeans
When Should You Push Your Soybeans? Chad Henderson and Kevin Matthews are no stranger to high yielding soybeans. They discuss their soybean fertility programs with Damian Mason, and share their secrets for picking up extra yield by spoonfeeding their soybeans at specific times during the season.
2023-10-03
07 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
The Cumulative Effect of Biologicals
There’s an old saying about good things taking time. Such is the promise of biological crop inputs— while they do provide an immediate result, their larger benefit accumulates over time. Chad Henderson compares biological usage to chicken litter. “We’ve been using chicken litter a long time. You don’t see immediate results…But by the third year of chicken litter, you can definitely see things changing in your soil.” Chad joins Holganix’s Mike Batson and Damian Mason to discuss the cumulative effect of biologicals. Presented by Advanced Drainage Systems
2023-09-29
21 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Late Season Applications Clip
Farmers have come a long way from the days of blasting out a load of dry fertilizer early in the season. Kevin Matthews and Jason Worley from Nachurs talk with Damian Mason about pushing a corn crop with late season applications. How late is too late?
2023-09-28
08 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
What Is A Plant Biostimulant?
Plant biostimulants have gained significant attention in the world of agriculture and in recent years. But what exactly are they, and how can they benefit your crop? Damian Mason is in the Stoller booth at Farm Progress to find out what exactly a biostimulant is and more importantly, what their role is in getting you to the next yield level.
2023-09-27
07 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Strategies for Pigweed Control Amid Increased Herbicide Resistance
Pigweed — layman’s term for Water Hemp and Palmer Amaranth — is a big problem. The species which is native to the desert southwest has successfully migrated to crop fields throughout the U.S. Because of its roots in the desert and its biology, the plants are tough to kill and getting even tougher. XA’s Matt Swanson and Caleb Traugh join FMC’s Blaire Colvin to discuss strategies to manage an increasingly resistant class of weeds that’s very prolific and capable of causing huge yield drags. Presented by Advanced Drainage Systems
2023-09-26
44 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Are You Spoon Feeding Soybeans The Right Stuff
AgroLiquid’s Galynn Beer joins Temple Rhodes to explain the multiple soybean trials displayed at Temple’s field day. The big takeaway: It’s time to stop treating soybeans as simply the rotation between corn. Because….With enhanced fertility practices soybeans can make big yields and a lot of money!
2023-09-22
08 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Member Spotlight: Greg Dell - Young Maryland Farmer Unafraid of Experimentation
About 90 miles from XtremeAg’s Temple Rhodes, you’ll find 29-year-old farmer and XA member Greg Dell. Greg didn’t want to go to college, but his dad wouldn’t allow him back on the farm until he’d worked somewhere else for three years. He explains the growth and learning experience being employed by a large-scale farming operation allowed him. Greg discusses with Damian his aspiration to be better but not necessarily bigger, the value of experimentation, and the farm's profitable expansion into bird seed production. Presented by Loveland Products
2023-09-21
23 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Expediting Residue Breakdown
After your combine completes the harvest pass, the remaining residue begins breaking down. But if you let this breakdown happen on nature’s timetable, you’re wasting valuable nutrients. Last year’s crop residue holds fertility that you’ve already paid for — an effective management plan recycles your fertility investment. Temple, Chad, and Holganix’s Rob McCoy discuss the importance of residue management.
2023-09-21
08 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Takeaways From Harvest 2023 With Miles Farms
Matt and Layne Miles are approaching the end of harvest 2023. With moisture preventing the combines from running their final soybean fields and the cotton a couple weeks shy of completion, the Miles join Damian to discuss this season’s takeaways. Almost everything matured simultaneously which made for an exhausting three- week run and some fast lessons. Most notably for this year — Matt says his final pass didn’t produce an ROI. Presented by Loveland Products
2023-09-18
24 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
How Do You Know If You’ve Gone Too Far?
Temple Rhodes and AgroLiquid’s Joe Leslie explain corn trials being conducted at Temple’s field day. The trials are a series with additional product and modifications from one to the next, eventually culminating in a trial involving applications of everything including the kitchen sink. How do you know if you’ve gone too far if you don’t push the envelope? Temple says “send it!”
2023-09-18
06 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Making Money Off Of High Moisture Corn
XtremeAg's Johnny Verell fired up the combine to shell corn last year on August 20th. He was finished with corn harvest a month later. Even by western Tennessee farming standards, Johnny pulls the trigger fast on corn harvest. Why? Because harvesting corn at 30% moisture makes him more money than if he allows it to dry down to the teens. Mr. Verell and his agronomic partner Brian Adams join Damian to explain the method to their high moisture madness. If you’re interested in: higher yields, avoidance of “phantom loss,” capturing positive basis in the markets, spreading out your labor, minimizing weathe...
2023-07-26
09 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
OH HAIL! MANAGING YIELD AFTER A HAIL STORM
Storms happen. So, how do you manage a yield when the clouds clear? XA affiliate Matt Swanson discusses his adaptations and practices post-hail storm this spring and what outcomes he expects. Is your corn flattened or just leafless? How many soybeans did you lose? To re-plant or let it ride? And what exactly is your insurance going to cover and what are you on the hook for? It’s all here in XtremeAg’s Cutting The Curve podcast with Damian Mason. Presented by Advanced Drainage Systems with support from Loveland Products.
2023-06-27
30 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Striving For Stress-Free Plants with Kevin Matthews
A common theme among the XtremeAg guys is the quest for stress-free crops. Kevin shares the practices and products he turns to to keep his plants from getting stressed out. He was an early adopter on plant growth regulators, he’s been experimenting with biologicals for years, and he now realizes he wasn’t using products to their full stress -reducing capacity early on. If you’re losing yield to preventable stress (and trust us, you are!), this is the episode for you. Presented by Loveland Products
2023-06-01
48 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Feeding The Biology of the Soil
We don’t do garden plots at XtremeAg, we do legit, large scale trials. This year, Kelly and Temple each have 40 acre lab trials with AgXplore — Temple is doing soybeans and Kelly is doing corn. The guys explain what they are trying to find, what they are using, what they are already seeing, and most importantly, what they will deem as success. Presented by AgXplore
2023-05-30
25 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Switching From a Dry Fertilizer Program to Liquid & Making It Profitable
Matt Miles admits, when it comes to his fertility program, he wasn’t an early adopter. “It was old school, it was easy…and easy isn’t always the best.” He’s seen the light with encouragement from his XtremeAg peers. He now uses frequent liquid fertilizer applications — in-furrow, via Y-drop, and over the top foliar. This from a farmer who relied on dry fertilizer and chicken litter only a few years ago. Matt, along with son Layne, explain their fertility program evolution. Yes, they spend more money but the cost decreases precipitously per each added bushel. Presented by Advanced Drainage Syste
2023-05-12
16 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
SWAT Soil Mapping: What It Is & Why You Need It
Soil survey maps are cool to look at, but they may not be completely accurate because they were done by hand decades ago. Yield maps — now spit out by your combine — are fun to look at, but it turns out they may not be completely accurate either due to lack of user re-calibration. So what should you do if you want a real good picture of what’s happening in your fields? XtremeAg affiliate Matt Swanson says you should look at SWAT soil mapping. He explains how it works, what it shows, and why you need it. Presented by AgXplore
2023-03-24
38 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Cover Cropping For Positive Results & Positive Economics
XtremeAg member James Hepp is a first generation Iowa farmer who has been expanding his cover- cropped acres for the past three years. His motivation to continue upping his cover crop game got a shot in the arm this winter after seeing ditches filled with topsoil from the neighbor’s fall-tilled fields. James joins Integrated Ag Solutions’ Mike Evans to discuss the how, why, and when of cover cropping. He also shares the economic returns — which approach a couple hundred dollars per acre — of cover cropping. Presented by Loveland Products with support from Agricen.
2023-03-20
40 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Farming in Quebec With Sam of the North
Sam Coutu wasn’t raised on a farm but he knew he wanted to work in production agriculture. He spent summers at his uncle’s dairy farm in his native Quebec then spent 3 months on a farm in Switzerland as a teenager. Today this first generation farmer operates 1,540 acres of corn, soybeans, and wheat. (Only 2% of the land in Quebec is farm ground!) Sam will be conducting XtremeAg trials using products from Spraytec and AgrotechUSA. Listen in and learn about Agriculture north of the St. Lawrence from our newest affiliate “Sam Of The North!” Presented by AgXplore.
2023-03-20
28 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Finding The Key Piece
Matt and Layne Miles talk about the Lab they are conducting this season to determine the key application in boosting row rice production. In 2023, AgroLiquid is once again teaming up with XtremeAg for large-scale, on-farm labs to improve products and in-field performance. Five XtremeAg farmers will experiment with different applications, planting practices, and methods using a myriad of AgroLiquid products.
2023-03-07
16 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Fixing The Limiting Factors
In 2023, AgroLiquid is once again teaming up with XtremeAg for large-scale, on-farm labs to improve products and in-field performance. Five XtremeAg farmers will experiment with different applications, planting practices, and methods using a myriad of AgroLiquid products. In this podcast, Kevin talks about focusing on fixing his limiting factors, specifically calcium and potassium deficiencies that are prevalent in his part of the country.
2023-03-07
13 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Finishing The Pods
Kelly Garrett will be teaming up with AgroLiquid to set his crop up for late season success. He acknowledges that the lack of a late season strategy in the past has resulted in significant yield loss. In 2023, AgroLiquid is once again teaming up with XtremeAg for large-scale, on-farm labs to improve products and in-field performance. Five XtremeAg farmers will experiment with different applications, planting practices, and methods using a myriad of AgroLiquid products.
2023-03-07
16 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Hitting The Right Crop Stages
In 2023, AgroLiquid is once again teaming up with XtremeAg for large-scale, on-farm labs to improve products and in-field performance. Five XtremeAg farmers will experiment with different applications, planting practices, and methods using a myriad of AgroLiquid products. In this podcast, Temple Rhodes talks about the importance of hitting the right crop stages.
2023-03-07
15 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Meet Caleb Traugh - Georgia Ag Consultant and XA Affiliate
Caleb Traugh is quite an anomaly. He’s an Agricultural consultant who didn’t grow up on a farm and he doesn’t have a degree in any Agricultural curriculum. Heck, he doesn’t have a college degree at all. This unconventional path to Agriculture affords Caleb latitude to learn without having to re-learn. Caleb runs an Ag consultancy business that he began in 2020, mostly covering farming operations in southwest Georgia, southeast Alabama, and northwest Florida. Caleb discusses peanuts, the power of plant observation, and what he hopes to contribute to as well as learn from XtremeAg. Presented by AgXplore.
2023-03-07
30 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Moving Cotton Calcium Into Cotton
Matt has said that cotton is a plant that is trying really hard to die right from the minute it emerges from the ground each spring. Matt is excited about working with AgroLiquid to find a way to move micronutrients, specifically calcium, into the cotton plant through a series of foliar passes. In 2023, AgroLiquid is once again teaming up with XtremeAg for large-scale, on-farm labs to improve products and in-field performance. Five XtremeAg farmers will experiment with different applications, planting practices, and methods using a myriad of AgroLiquid products.
2023-03-06
20 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
What Matt & Layne Learned From XtremeAg That Made Them Money
Modifications to planter setup for better crop emergence, changes to in-furrow fertility programs, and how not to treat your wheat like a lesser crop. These are three key takeaways Matt and Layne Miles got out of being a part of XtremeAg this year. You know that XA is a learning platform designed and created to help you shorten your learning curve — well, the Miles boys learned right along with you. They share details on these subjects and how you too can apply the lessons for greater productivity on your farm. Presented by AgXplore
2023-02-21
21 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Select Shot In-Furrow Product Performance Review with Kevin Matthews
CapstanAg’s Select Shot system was trialed in 2022 by three XtremeAg guys. Kevin delivers some feedback based on his two planter comparison — one set up with the SelectShot system, one without. Results: Better utilization of crop inputs. More precise in-furrow application. And the chance to reduce product usage which saves money. CapstanAg’s Stuart Meacham joins the conversation to explain the technology. One big challenge for tomorrow’s farmer will be environmental compliance and demonstrating judicious usage of inputs. The SelectShot system might help with that. Presented by Advanced Drainage Systems.
2023-02-07
45 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
What Can We Learn From Illinois Farmer & Agronomy Guy, Matt Swanson?
Matt Swanson is an XtremeAg affiliate from western Illinois. Matt explains his farming operation — which consists of acres in the Midwest as well as Arkansas. Matt did 2022 XA trial plots involving soybean fertility experimentation with products from Nachurs and AgXplore. In this conversation, Matt touches on those trials, his business diversification initiatives, and the letter grade he gives himself on various aspects of running a successful farm. Presented by Advanced Drainage Systems with support from Agricen.
2023-02-03
36 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
New Opportunities to Make More Per Acre in 2023
XtremeAg’s Kelly Garrett was at the forefront of profiting off carbon credits. As the carbon marketplace becomes more clearly defined and understood, the opportunity to boost revenue on farms is expanding. According to Truterra’s Mariah Murphy, there are more dollars to be deployed through Ecosystem Services than available acres. She explains how the Truterra system carbon payments can be applied to your farm. It’s simple, and on average will fetch you $12 per acre for adjusting tillage and cover crop practices. Truterra is also rolling out a nitrogen reduction program that can add more non-crop revenue to your bottom...
2023-01-24
40 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Johnny’s Potentially Winning Wheat Strategy
You don’t think of western Tennessee as wheat country. Never the less, XA Affiliate Johnny Verell is bringing a competitive edge to the 2023 XtremeAg Wheat Wager. He takes his wheat very seriously -- something he admits the generations before him didn’t. But once he began treating wheat “like a real crop,” good things happened. Tune in to hear how Johnny maximizes yield and test weight by harvesting his wheat while it’s still wet — 25% moisture when the combines start rolling! Presented by AgXplore
2023-01-19
13 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
How We Produce Big Yield, High Profit Wheat with Temple and Chad
Face it, wheat production is often last on the list when it comes to the love and attention you devote (or don’t!) to the golden grain. But it shouldn’t be mistreated, it should be carefully treated, especially if you want bigger yields and bigger profits. Temple Rhodes and Chad Henderson team up in this podcast to share the practices and products they utilize to grow high yield wheat. There’s a ton of information here and, frankly, these guys put in a lot of effort with their wheat. If you’re serious about wheat production and you want to treat...
2023-01-12
1h 37
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
No More Cotton? Meet Tennessee Farmer Johnny Verell
Johnny Verell left his Jackson, Tennessee farm to attend Murray State University at his grandfather’s insistence. “He said I couldn’t farm if I didn’t go to college,” Johnny says. He returned to the farm and now runs the 3rd generation operation along with his dad. The family made a major decision in 2006 when they quit cotton. Johnny explains that business decision and his operation. He also shares the 3 subjects he’s learned the most about from XtremeAg as well as the subjects on which he intends to contribute to XtremeAg’s followers. Presented by Advanced Drainage Systems with Support f
2023-01-05
31 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
3 Mistakes You Might Be Making With Your Sprayer
Your sprayer is an expensive piece of equipment that gets plenty of use deploying expensive crop inputs. With all that money involved, it’s important to prevent costly mistakes that can be remedied very inexpensively. Nick Fleitz, Agronomist with Pentair explains three mistakes — worn nozzles, fine droplets, and sprayer contamination — that could very well be robbing yield. Then, Nick outlines the easy fixes that’ll get your spraying dialed in! Presented by Advanced Drainage Systems with support from Agricen. The information contained in this podcast is strictly based on the opinions, methods and best practices of the XtremeAg.farm team and does...
2022-12-13
30 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
What The Markets Are Telling Us At Harvest Time & What We Can Learn From It
Markets are always a bit volatile but 2022 was more so than average. Corn prices moved up and down by more than 30%, cotton prices dropped by half, and soybeans weren’t always stable. It’s a good practice to look back at what the year taught you in order to make adjustments for greater success in the year ahead. Bryce Guse and Sean Findley with Silveus Financial join XtremeAg’s Layne Miles to discuss 2022 surprises, predictions made right and wrong, and strategies that worked. The risk of loss in trading futures and/or options is substantial and each investor and/or trader...
2022-11-22
40 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Reaffirming Variable Rate Nitrogen Application
Here at XtremeAg we like to point out ideas and products that work so effectively, they become standard practice. Sometimes you need to prove to yourself that your standard operating procedure is still viable. Kelly Garrett and his agronomist Mike Evans did that this year when they varied from their standard practice of applying variable rate nitrogen. The results: A 12 to 15% yield drag. The two explain why they’ll never do flat rate “N” applications again and other lessons. Presented by AgXplore
2022-09-28
20 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Hybrid Agronomy
Kevin takes the opportunity to learn from 36 years of agronomy expertise when he talks to Leslie Lloyd, agronomist for Agrigold. An in depth conversation about hybrids, diseases, fungicide responses, application timing, stalk strength, drought stress, kernel depth, row spacing, population, when to combine and perhaps most importantly, a trick for keeping the gnats away. ----- The information contained in this video is strictly based on the opinions, methods and best practices of the XtremeAg.farm team and does not constitute professional advice. Do not assume these practices will work on your farm. Always consult a professional before making any farming...
2022-09-22
23 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
UNSTRATIFYING YOUR NUTRIENTS
Water, oxygen and biology help break down and move nutrients into the root zone for uptake by plants. But it is not always a free flow of nutrients throughout the soil, in fact it is often not. So how do you get the nutrients that are below the root zone into the root zone and into the plant? Kelly and Mike talk about how they are "unstratifying their nutrients" with some help from Concept Agritek's Shaun Guthmiller. ---- The information contained in this video is strictly based on the opinions, methods and best practices of the XtremeAg.farm team and...
2022-09-19
11 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Seaweed As A Crop Input?
You probably didn’t realize this, but seaweed has been utilized as a crop input for 40 or 50 years in some specialty crop production systems. Now, seaweed’s benefits are being discovered and put to work in commodity cropping systems. With several of the XtremeAg guys trialing seaweed-derived crop inputs, it was time to sit down and discuss kelp technology in farming. In short, seaweed helps crops because it thrives in cold, dark, salty environments and it’s good at it — kelp has been in the oceans for millennia! Brian Cornelius, Director of Applied Sciences with Agricen explains the stress mitigation benefits...
2022-09-14
28 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Nitrogen Reduction & Soil Health
SourceCorn is a product proposing this promise: Spend $14 per acre for this foliar applied product and you’ll save more than that in nitrogen application and maintain the same yield (or even do better!). This matters as we increasingly are impacted at the farm level by environmental policy or pressure to reduce our utilization of the big macronutrients — N & P. SoundAg is the company behind SourceCorn. XtremeAg is doing some trial work with the company this year. SoundAg’s VP of sales, Eamon Flood, joins me to discuss soil health and the future of using less fertilizer per bushel. Presented by Adv...
2022-08-14
31 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Strategies For Reviving Soil Biology In A Dead Field
The Red River valley of southern Manitoba experienced flooding in Spring 2022. XtremeAg affiliate Riley Anderson had one field submerged under flood waters for more than a month. This would be a problem anytime of the year but with it happening during spring warm up, the flooding killed off soil biology. As Riley puts it, “It smelled like it was dead and rotting.” Now he’s working to revive his soil biology to make it productive and healthy sooner versus later. Because...degraded assets are bad for business and as a farmer, your soil is your biggest asset! Presented by AgXplore
2022-07-28
23 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
It’s Time to Test For Soil Biology
Each year 10 Million soil samples are pulled in North America. Those samples are sent to labs for analysis and the results are returned to farmers and their crop advisors. This is a good thing — knowing your nutrient and pH levels provides guidance for fertility treatments. The only problem: Much of what we do and how we do it when it comes to soil sampling hasn’t changed since the 1950’s! Al Toops with BiomeMakers joins Kelly and Connor Garrett of XtremeAg to discuss the future of soil analysis and why soil biology testing will change production Agriculture. Presented by Advanced Draina...
2022-07-24
39 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Perspectives On Prairie Province Farming
Riley Anderson farms 24 miles north of the North Dakota / Canada border. As our newest XtremeAg affiliate, Riley will be providing insights, updates, and product trials from his Manitoba operation. What unique challenges do farmers face in an area that dips down to —40 degrees Fahrenheit? How does the product mix change when you go north of the border? And how are commodity markets navigated differently in the western provinces from where you farm? We dig into those topics and more in this episode! Presented by AgXplore
2022-07-07
33 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Aren't All Seed Companies The Same?
It's all the same seed in a different bag with different label? Right? Damian asks the question and more with Agrigold's Leslie Rogers and XtremeAg's Matt Miles and Robb Dedman.
2022-07-06
14 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
WEBINAR: CARBON MARKETS DEMYSTIFIED
You’ve likely been hearing about carbon revenue opportunities for farmers for a couple years now. But what’s the deal and how do you go about making a carbon deal? What changes to your farming practices are required and who monitors your practices? Most importantly, how much money are we talking about — because let’s face it, carbon credit deals are still anything but mainstream. We know you have questions, and frankly so do we at XtremeAg. Which is why we devoted our June webinar specifically to carbon markets. Listen in as we discuss everything you need to know about se...
2022-06-16
1h 09
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Cost of Compaction and How To Avoid It!
Soil compaction is a silent yield robber. Unlike a wind storm or hail damage, you may not see the harm to your crop — but you will certainly see it on your combine’s yield monitor. In the old days we thought deep ripping was the solution to correcting soil compaction but that’s timely -- and with the price of diesel — exceedingly expensive. XtremeAg’s Kevin Matthews discusses the cause and cost of compaction and offers solutions on avoiding or rectifying the problem. From tire pressure adjustments to cover crop utilization and a few other tips, Kevin can help you keep your...
2022-06-15
42 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Short Cuts: What is a plant health agent and does your crop need one?
We've heard of secret agents and talent agents, but what is a plant health agent? And more importantly, do you really need one? Damian talks with Matt Miles and Trey Curtis from Concept Agritek about a 40 acre trial they are running with a new product called Bio Health that coats the plant with hundreds of different strains of bacteria and fungi that increases photosynthesis, respiration and keep the plant from having a a bad day. The theory being that if the plant is healthy it will defend itself from any stressors. So does this mean you don't need a costly...
2022-06-13
13 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Farming On The Bay
Temple Rhodes farms on Maryland’s eastern shore, operates a couple other business ventures, and he’s now contributing to XtremeAg. Throughout the season we’ll tune in to see what Mr. Rhodes is doing with fungicide treatments, seed plots, and micronutrient products to increase fertility uptake — a big issue for his geography. Because Temple farms in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, he’s under an environmental microscope. Enjoy meeting Temple and hear about how he runs his operation to “never become complacent.” This episode is presented by AgXplore.
2022-06-09
37 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Short Cuts: The Rice Farmer
Miles Farms is not only a producer of corn, soybeans, cotton and wheat, but they also manage a significant rice growing operation. Rice is a unique crop that many people outside of the 6 big rice growing states no very little about. Matt and Robbo talk with Damian about the unique needs, growth and care that is required to grow rice in the delta region. Tune in and learn something about a crop you may not know much about in this XtremeAg Short Cuts.
2022-06-08
14 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
The Highs And Lows of Cotton Farming
Matt Miles's father used to say, “Cotton is always looking for a reason to die.” Matt explains cotton production in the Arkansas delta — from moisture issues to managing a high maintenance crop to capitalizing (hopefully!) on record high cotton prices. As Matt explains, cotton is a high risk, high reward crop. With cotton picking equipment costing $900,000 new, it needs to be. This is XtremeAg’s first cotton-themed recording and Matt does a good job of explaining the nuances of cotton farming, which is in his heritage. Presented by AgXplore.
2022-05-13
35 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
How Precise Can You Get With Your Starter Application?
In the old days, we dribbled out fertilizer from our planters and hoped it found its way to the seed to boost early growth. Basically, as Stuart Meacham of CapstanAg says, it was a “controlled spill.” But with all the technological advancements in machinery, field mapping, and data analytics, isn’t it time for precision in-furrow fertilization? Lee Lubbers thought so, which is why he sought out CapstanAg’s Select Shot in-furrow fertility system. XtremeAg’s Lee Lubbers, Kelly Garrett, and Kevin Matthews will be running trial comparisons this season to measure fertilizer savings, analyze in-furrow fungicide application, and monitor plant and...
2022-04-26
29 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Will The World — And Your Farm — Have The Fertilizer It Needs?
Fertilizer price spikes have been the subject of much media over the past six to twelve months. But what forces are at play globally that may make the problem worse or better? Bryan Bednarek fertilizer trading expert with StoneX Financial discusses the fertilizer supply chain, pricing, and explains why he’s not concerned about facing a full blown fertilizer shortage. He’s joined by XtremeAg’s Lee Lubbers for perspective on farm-level fertilizer availability and how to be prepared for the next season.
2022-04-20
43 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Xyway - Do's And Don'ts For Using This Game Changing Fungicide
In 2021 FMC launched Xyway, a systemic fungicide engineered to be applied at planting as a tank mix with starter fertilizer. 95% of the farms that used the product saw great results. But those farmers who applied Xyway in-furrow, especially in cool, damp soil, experienced germination issues. Iowa farmer, Kelly Garrett, having heard of this potential issue through XtremeAg users, opted for a 2x2 application (2 inches deep and 2 inches away from the seed bed). His farm saw a 26 bushel yield bump using Xyway AND he didn’t have to perform a second fungicide treatment mid-Summer. Kelly is joined by FMC’s Gail Stra...
2022-02-25
27 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
ROI Driving Crop Rotation Decisions
There’s a lot to consider heading into any new crop year but especially as we prepare for 2022 with record run-ups in input prices, lack of input inventory, Covid marketplace impacts, and uncertainty. One consideration always in play is whether or not to alter the crop rotation. XtremeAg farmer, Chad Henderson explains why he’s staying the course in 2022 with his usual crop acreage splits. That is, unless the weather throws him a curve ball this spring. Chad explains the reasons and experiences that guided his decision against making radical changes to his cropping plan. Principal among them: "Crop rotation make...
2022-01-22
31 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Nutrient Management With Drip Irrigation
Fertilizer and diesel prices are up considerably. Meanwhile farms are under increasing environmental pressure. These forces combine to create a real opportunity for manure utilization via drip irrigation. Drip irrigation, as we’ve discussed in previous episodes, is a more efficient means of delivering moisture to your crop. But drip is also a very effective means of nutrient management which saves time, machinery hours, and diesel all while eliminating the soil compaction common with manure application. Then there is the environmental concern and complaints associated with manure that are eliminated by using in-ground drip application. Kurt Grimm with NutraDrip joins Xtr...
2022-01-18
42 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
What 2021 Taught Chad & Applying It To 2022
Winter is a good time to reflect back on what the prior farming season taught us and how we can apply those lessons for success in the new year. Alabama farm operator and XtremeAg co-founder Chad Henderson discusses some of his 2021 investments and ventures. He also covers the business and personal lessons he’s applying for a more prosperous 2022. From installing drainage (for the first time!), to practicing patience as a manager, Chad has plenty of lessons to share from the year that was. Presented by Advanced Drainage Systems
2022-01-12
30 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Perfecting Practices Learned In 2021
Kevin Matthews is always looking for a way to improve upon how he does what he does on his North Carolina farming operation. In 2021 he implemented changes in how he plants, how he sprays, and how he harvests. Looking ahead to crop year 2022, he discusses how he’ll perfect his newly implemented changes. Remember, if you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you’ve always gotten. And that simply won’t do for an XtremeAg producer!
2022-01-10
30 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Income Diversification For Your Farm (Using Resources You Already Have!)
Over the years, American farms have become increasingly specialized. That’s been good for productivity but not necessarily for protecting farm profitability. Being too dependent on just a handful of crops -- or worse, a handful of buyers — puts farming operations in a precarious spot. Remember the old saying about having all your eggs in one basket? Sometimes the smart business move is to change up your offering to diversify your income stream. And if you can do it with resources, relationships, and knowledge you already have, all the better. Kelly Garrett discusses his budding direct-to-consumer meat enterprise. He explains his...
2021-12-13
30 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Releasing Fertility Within Residue Through Biologicals
On average — and at current fertilizer prices — there is $125 worth of N,P& K in each acre of corn stalks post harvest. Are you getting that fertility buck back for your next crop? As fertilizer prices skyrocket, it’s more important than ever to harvest nutrients already in your fields for your next harvest. Not to mention the importance of proper residue management — too much residue prevents solid seed-to-soil contact come next planting. Biological products such as Extract maximize nutrient release from residue while also breaking down that residue. Brian Cornelious and Steve Sexton from Agricen join XtremeAg farmer Kelly Garrett t...
2021-12-08
25 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
New Biologicals To Reduce Stress On Your Crops
Marrone Bio is a 15 year old Agricultural company you’ve probably never heard of if you’re in the business of producing row crops. That’s because Marrone Bio’s roots are in products for horticulture and specialty crops. But that’s changing as the company is bringing innovative, abiotic stress reduction products to the marketplace. XtremeAg farmer Chad Henderson is trialing two Marrone products this year on 500 acres of corn and soybeans. Emergen (applied in-furrow) and Pacesetter (applied as a foliar at time of fungicide application), have one job: to reduce plant stress. Or, as Chad says, “they keep my crops fro...
2021-11-22
16 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Will There Be Ag Input Shortages?
Supply chains the world over have been majorly disrupted since governments began shutting down economies and transit in Spring of 2020. Agriculture has not been excepted from these disruptions — from meat processing to paper goods shortages, we’ve been impacted. But what about Ag inputs — the very goods we require to grow crops and feed the world? Will we have what we need? Right or wrong, many of our ingredients for fertility and chemistry products derive from Asia and that could be — in fact it already is — a big problem. Tommy Roach of NACHURS and XtremeAg co-founder Kelly Garrett discuss strategies to manage...
2021-10-20
29 min
XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast
Being Equipped to Seize Opportunities
The marketplace is in constant motion. Weather events, foreign trade and production occurrences, crop reports, and other factors create opportunities for gains (and losses!). Seasoned farm operators understand the need to exploit higher returns when the marketplace allows an opportunity to do so. XtremeAg farmer Matt Miles, discusses his grain facility expansion and dryer addition. The upgrade creates grain handling efficiencies and this year it’s making him an extra dollar or so per bushel by selling into an inverted market. Presented by Advanced Drainage Systems
2021-08-24
24 min