How Much Fertility Is Enough?
Practical Organic Fertility Guidance
Featuring Agronomist James Schroepfer
Helping Organic Growers Answer the Question: How Much Fertility Is Enough?Organic fertility decisions are expensive, complex, and often full of uncertainty, particularly when it comes to knowing how much fertility is enough to support yield without wasting inputs. In this Organic Advisor Call Series session, James Schroepfer, agronomist at Crop Fertility Services, breaks down how growers can make confident, data-driven fertility decisions — without overapplying inputs or leaving yield on the table
This isn’t theory. It’s real-world agronomy built for organic systems.
This video is part of the Organic Advisor Call Series @ OATS
James Schroepfer bridges the gap between theory and practice in sustainable agriculture.
- Professional Credentials: Certified agronomist with 15+ years of experience; Lead agronomist at Crop Fertility Services
- Proven Track Record: Has guided countless conventional and organic farmers toward improved soil health and profitability
- Hands-On Expertise: Operates 500+ certified organic acres with brother Chris, testing and validating every recommendation in real-world conditions
The Challenge Organic Growers Face
Organic fertilizer programs come with unique hurdles:
Nutrient availability is harder to predict
Inputs vary widely in nutrient release and efficiency
Over-application hurts ROI, under-application hurts yield
James tackles these challenges head-on by helping growers connect soil data, field history, and nutrient sources into a clear fertility strategy.
James Schroepfer’s Approach
Start With the Soil — Not the Product
James walks through how to properly interpret soil tests in organic systems, emphasizing nutrient availability rather than just raw numbers. His approach helps growers understand what the crop can actually access — and what it can’t.
Match Fertility to Field History
No two fields are the same. James highlights why past crops, manure history, and previous yields matter when determining fertility rates. This context allows growers to fine-tune applications instead of relying on blanket recommendations.
Compare Organic Nutrient Sources Wisely
From manure to compost and other organic amendments, James explains how different nutrient sources behave in the soil — including release timing and variability. That clarity helps growers choose inputs that align with crop demand and budget.
