The fruitful year 2024 for farmers in Kazakhstan turned out to be the result of sufficient fall and spring moisture, which created favorable conditions for crop growth. However, there is a downside: a high harvest of the current year may cause deterioration of soil conditions for the next season unless preventive measures are taken to restore and replenish nutrients.

How the moisture of 2024 ensured a high harvest

The exceptional moisture provided the crop plants with optimum macro- and micronutrient intake, increased nutrient availability in the soil and ensured good water supply at all stages of the growing season. As a result, farmers had an above-average harvest level, which was a definite success after a problematic year of 2023.

Expected Challenges of 2025 with no timely actions

Despite favorable conditions in 2024, high harvest has depleted a significant portion of soil nutrient reserves. The main risks for the 2025 season include:

1. Nutrients shortage: This year's higher crop growth resulted in intensive consumption of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium from the soil, leaving it depleted. Without replenishment of these elements, next year's crop could face nutritional deficiencies, resulting in lower crop growth and quality values.
2. Elements washout risk: Some nutrients, especially nitrogen, may have been leached into the lower layers due to the moist soil, making them unavailable to plants. This requires compensation by applying fertilizers, especially nitrogen and potassium fertilizers, to maintain optimum nutrients level.
3. Soil fertility decrease: After the wet season of 2024, soils may be lacking in organic matter and structure, affecting the ability to retain moisture and nutrients. Without supporting the soil with complex fertilizers and organic improvers, this can make conditions for plant growth more difficult.

Measures to maintain crop growth in 2025

In order to maintain high crop growth in the next season, farmers in Kazakhstan are advised to pay attention to the following aspects:

1. Integrated fertilizer application: It is essential to replenish lost macro- and microelements. Ammophos is the main source of phosphorus, which is necessary for root and crop formation. Ammophos application will help supplement this element in the soil. It is also important to add nitrogen fertilizer to support overall plant nutrition, especially in the early stages. Alternatively, integrated fertilizers containing both phosphorus and nitrogen can provide balanced nutrition for crops.
2. Ameliorative and structural soil improvements: Following abundant moisture, it is important to maintain water permeability and soil structure to reduce the risks of leaching and retain residual nutrients. Phosphogypsum can be a useful addition to a fertilizer system. In addition to adding phosphorus, it also improves soil structure, increases soil water holding capacity and promotes better intake of other nutrients. Applying phosphogypsum can help improve soil fertility and reduce the risk of phosphorus shortage for future crops.

Conclusion

Applying fertilizer and restoring fertility in a timely manner will help maintain harvest in 2025, while maintaining a balance between the benefits received and the condition of the farmland.