Digging Into Micronutrients: A Manufacturer’s Perspective
September 1, 2025 No matter the seed, what’s in the soil is critical. For decades N, P, and K were the primary focus. And no one will argue their importance, micronutrients now sit along side their macronutrient brethren when it comes to soil health. CropLife interviewed Ron Calhoun, Senior Portfolio Manager, Plant Nutrition at Loveland Products, to learn more about these critical crop inputs.
Ron Calhoun, Senior Portfolio Manager, Plant Nutrition at Loveland Products
CropLife: What were your expectations for micronutrients in 2025 and were they met?
Ron Calhoun: There was an expectation of further grower adoption of micronutrients, with increased soil and tissue testing. With indications of a strong corn year, there was more activity around micronutrient use at planting. Both factors support continued growth in this segment, which is being met as adoption rises.
CL: What factors influenced how the micronutrient segment faired this year?
RC: Improved grower knowledge and understanding of micronutrient benefits were key. Price and supply has stabilized, making it easier for growers to incorporate micronutrients into crop plans. Demand continues to increase as growers approach micronutrients as part of their overall crop plan.
CL: How has the role of micronutrients changed over the past couple of years?
RC: The role has evolved, becoming more integrated in crop planning and standard agronomic practices as growers recognize their value in addressing limiting yield factors.
CL: How has science/technology behind micronutrients changed over the past several years?
RC: There are many product options that provide growers with the ability to build a program and select what’s best suited for their crop plans. Efficiency improvements stem from better formulations and precise application technology options such as in-furrow use. Growers can now match product, placement, timing, and rate to match crop demand with much greater accuracy. We are seeing more growers taking advantage of in-season application strategies by utilizing aircraft and high-clearance sprayers to combine fungicide and nutritional products, capitalizing on labor and equipment efficiencies.
CL: Has artificial intelligence had an influence on the micronutrient segment, and if so, how?
RC: Large data sets are impacting many industries and ag is no different. Leveraging large data sets from soil and tissue testing has enabled us to identify trends across extensive geographic regions. With more data available from more areas, we can draw deeper, more accurate conclusions about what’s occurring—even in adjacent regions. Access to robust data allows us to streamline the decision-making process by detecting issues earlier and responding proactively. Ultimately, large-scale data analysis is helping to spot emerging trends, plan ahead, and address potential challenges before they escalate.
CL: What trends are currently driving the micronutrients marketplace?
RC: Once a limiting factor is addressed, our focus shifts to the next. This cycle of continuous improvement keeps interest in micronutrients high, especially as growers seek to maximize yield potential.
CL: What are the biggest challenges to growing the micronutrient market?
RC: Many growers can be overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices available. For those not currently using micronutrients—or considering adding them at planting—capital investment in new application equipment such as in-furrow or y-drops can be a barrier for some. However, trends in equipment and technology are making it possible to apply micronutrients more efficiently and precisely, which allows growers to more easily see the impact and benefit of their activity. When micronutrients are broadcast over a broad area, it becomes more difficult to measure the benefit of the application. Advances in technology, such as in-furrow liquid delivery systems and y-drops, make it possible to target applications where they are needed most. This equipment and these techniques enable much more precise placement, improving efficiency and outcomes for growers.
CL: What are the biggest opportunities for the micronutrient market?
RC: With so many product options, growers can find solutions to fit into their crop plan and application practices. The key is education and deeper understanding—data-driven insights from soil and tissue sampling, demand curves of crops, and targeted use expand opportunities for ROI
CL: What are your expectations for the 2026 season?
RC: Once growers adopt these products, it quickly becomes a consistent part of their approach rather than a one-time effort. We continue to see ongoing interest and adoption, and, over time, it often becomes a standard practice across all acres.
CL: What else do our readers need to know about the micronutrient market?
RC: The industry’s position around micronutrients has evolved significantly. Given increased competition for our products and ongoing market volatility, it’s more important than ever to maximize the potential of every acre we plant. Understanding the specific micronutrient needs of crops—and carefully timing their application—will be critical for farm economics and long-term success moving forward.
Subscribe Today For
