Incitec Pivot will host a one-hour webinar on Friday, 22 May from 9am (AEST) focusing on how EASY N can support more flexible N management in a challenging supply environment.

OPTMISING nitrogen (N) is a key driver of crop performance, but timing, placement and method of application can impact efficiency as much as the product itself.

With continued pressure across global fertiliser supply chains, careful planning of N programs and reducing volatilisation losses remains critical to optimising N efficiency.

Volatilisation can reduce the amount of applied N available for crop uptake, particularly where surface-applied fertiliser is not incorporated in a timely manner.

Recent trials conducted by Incitec Pivot Fertilisers using EASY N, the company’s liquid N solution, have reinforced that.

Across multiple 2024-25 trial sites, EASY N delivered an average 39% reduction in N volatilisation loss compared to urea, supporting previous research that has consistently shown lower losses from Urea Ammonium Nitrate (UAN) based systems.

Incitec Pivot Fertilisers Technical Agronomist, David McRae, said the focus is increasingly shifting beyond product selection to how N is managed within the system.

“We’re seeing more attention on when and where N is applied, not just how much,” Mr McRae said.

“Getting that timing and placement right is critical to improving overall efficiency.”

EASY N provides flexibility to apply N across key stages of the program – pre-plant, at planting and in-crop – allowing applications to be adjusted to suit seasonal conditions and crop demand.

“Where EASY N is surface applied, incorporation through rainfall, irrigation or cultivation remains important to minimise volatilisation,” Mr McRae said.

“At planting, liquid application systems enable flexible positioning of N relative to the seed.

“This can make it easier to separate N from the seed furrow while maintaining access for early crop growth, helping manage establishment risk while supporting nutrient availability.”

In-crop, application method becomes increasingly important.

“Achieving an even distribution of N across responsive paddocks is critical for consistent yield and protein outcomes,” Mr McRae said.

“Evenness is often overlooked, but it has a real impact. Variability in application can lead to striping and inconsistent crop performance, particularly in N responsive situations.”

Applying EASY N through a boomspray can improve distribution compared to spreading, particularly under conditions where wind can affect spread patterns.

Liquid systems also operate with a lower Coefficient of Variation (COV), supporting more consistent application across the paddock. In systems where operational efficiency and timing are critical, the ability to integrate EASY N into both planting and spraying equipment also provides practical advantages, enabling growers to adapt N programs as the season unfolds.

“Ultimately, improving N efficiency comes back to retaining more of what is applied and placing it where the crop can access it,” Mr McRae said.

“It’s about making sure more of that N ends up in the plant. That’s where the real gains in efficiency are made.”

EASY N is delivered by Incitec Pivot, and is stored on farm, ready to use when required, providing growers with a practical and flexible way to manage nitrogen applications.

Incitec Pivot will host a one-hour webinar on Friday, 22 May from 9am (AEST) focusing on how EASY N can support more flexible N management in a challenging supply environment.

For growers considering UAN systems, the webinar will provide a practical overview of how EASY N can be integrated into N management programs.

Register for the webinar at: WEBINAR | EASY N: Flexible Nitrogen Management in a Challenging Supply Environment | Join meeting in Teams | Microsoft Teams

About Incitec Pivot Fertilisers
Incitec Pivot Fertilisers is a key supplier of quality fertilisers, plant nutrition and soil health solutions, helping Australian farmers maximise productivity for their crops and achieve sustainable plant nutrition outcomes for their soils and farms. The team works closely with a network of local dealers, agronomists and advisors across the East Coast of Australia to support growers all year around.