You have most likely been to a meeting where the presenter talks about the vegetative stage in crops. Here at AgXplore, you will hear us talk more along the lines of the 5 phases of crop development. Architecture is the phase you would most commonly align with the vegetative stage. Why do we do this? It’s because we are always building off the previous step to help us hit that next goal, and ultimately finish as strong as we can in any given season.
Think of the Architecture phase as “Bigger, Faster Stronger”, where that crop is working on promoting healthy roots and shoots, capturing nutrients, storing those nutrients, and capturing sunlight. At this phase, we are focusing on safeguarding and maximizing the crop’s yield potential. While often you hear about adding bushels, which is most definitely a good thing, in a year where we are seeing a lot of crop stresses, safeguarding that yield that could be lost should also be considered a win.
If you have had the experience of hearing Gunther Kreps, our Executive Vice President, present, you will often hear him talk about this quote:
“When commodity prices are high, additional yield is a luxury. When commodity prices are low, additional yield is a necessity.”
-Dr Fred Below, University of Illinois
Now I think we can all agree to that, however as Gunther says, when isn’t yield a necessity. I think about Gunther’s comments on this every time I have the discussion about protecting or safeguarding yield that could be lost in a stressful environment.
Part of what we do here at AgXplore during this critical Architecture phase is use several of our technologies, specifically Plant Growth Technology (PGT). Plant Growth Regulators (PGRs) are commonly used to manage and stimulate plant growth, but it is about using the right PGRs at the right times, and these combinations of PGRs are part of our Plant Growth Technology platform. Nutrition is also an important part during this phase too. Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) Potassium, Sulfur (S) and micronutrients are all crucial during this phase for optimal growth and development.
The architecture phase in crop development starts with established seedlings and spans to the later vegetative and early reproductive stages. Using the right products during this phase is crucial in preparing for a successful yield.
Key Inputs
At this stage, inputs are primarily focused on promoting healthy root and shoot growth and ensuring adequate micronutrient delivery. While these measures support growth and photosynthetic activity, their goal is to safeguard and maximize the crop’s yield potential. Plant Growth Regulators (PGRs) are commonly used to manage and stimulate plant growth processes. Nutritional inputs, including nutrients like Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K), as well as sulfur and essential micronutrients, are crucial during this phase for optimal growth and development.
AgXplore Solutions
AgXplore has developed a group of products specifically designed to support crops during the architecture phase. These products are designed to enhance plant energy, nutrient mobilization, and overall growth.
Octane™
Octane™ is designed to boost plant energy and increase the mobilization of nutrients within the plant. By supporting the plant’s internal processes, Octane helps with vigorous growth and development during the crucial architecture phase.
ArchiTech
ArchiTech offers a complete package that includes NPK, micronutrients, and Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA). This formulation is specifically designed for use during the vegetative stages, ensuring that plants receive essential nutrients to preserve their maximum yield potential.
XR5 Sulfur
Sulfur is a critical nutrient often lacking in modern crop production. XR5 Sulfur provides an adequate supply of sulfur, balanced with nitrogen, to support optimal plant growth. This balance is vital for overall plant health.
XR5-KSB
XR5-KSB is formulated to meet the late-season nutrient demands of crops, providing a balanced supply of potassium, sulfur, and boron. These nutrients are often lost to weathering and are essential for ensuring that crops can reach their full yield potential.
Conclusion
The architecture phase is a critical period in crop development where targeted inputs can significantly impact the final yield. By using products like Octane, ArchiTech, XR5 Sulfur, and XR5-KSB from AgXplore, growers can ensure their crops receive the necessary support for optimal growth and development. These solutions not only promote healthy plant growth but also boost yield potential.
For more information on AgXplore products and how they can benefit your crops during the architecture phase, reach out to our team.
