New diagnostic tools for tissue testing

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Abstract
Diagnostic procedures that identify nutrient deficiencies and excesses in crops will likely gain prominence in the future. One reason is environmental concerns are driving producers to more timely and judicious use of fertilizers and waste products. Economics is an equally important factor that ultimately dictates producer practices. Advancements made in global positioning systems (GPS), geographical information systems (GIS), and variable rate application technology (VRAT) have made it possible to make nutrient management practices more site specific and reduce losses through runoff and leaching. These technologies open many opportunities for tissue testing because as whole‐field fertilizer application practices become more closely scrutinized, and nutrient deficiencies will become more obvious. Diagnosing these deficiencies will likely involve a combination of new technologies, such as on‐the‐go yield monitoring devices and aerial photography to identify problem areas in fields. Various analytical procedures will be needed to characterize these problem areas. These approaches will clear the way for more precise nutrient recommendations, but a network of laboratory specialist, consultants, farm managers, and fertilizer dealers will be needed to help producers implement improved management practices.