As we move into the 2026 growing season, improving soil health, maximizing return on investment (ROI), and testing real-world agronomic strategies are top priorities at the Wells Ag Supply Research Farm.
This spring, we’ve launched several new field trials including a large-scale oat study designed to explore nutrient efficiency, crop rotation benefits, and profitability opportunities for growers.
50 Acres of Oats: A New Opportunity for Yield and Profitability
One of the most exciting trials this year is a 50-acre oat field located on the east side of the Research Farm. These oats were seeded using a prescription developed by agronomists who have consistently achieved high-yield oat production.
Key planting details include:
- Seeding rate of approximately 3.3 bushels per acre
- 32 lb test weight (~100–105 lbs per acre)
- Pre- and post-season soil testing to measure impact
With increasing interest in food-grade oats and emerging premium markets, this trial is focused not just on yield, but on identifying a profitable crop opportunity for local growers.
Building Soil Health with Oats
This trial will specifically measure changes in Water Extractable Organic Carbon (WEOC), a key indicator of soil biological activity and nutrient availability. By tracking soil conditions before and after the season, we aim to better understand how oats contribute to:
- Improved soil structure
- Increased nutrient retention
- Reduced reliance on synthetic fertilizers over time
Healthier soils ultimately lead to better efficiency in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium use, helping farmers lower input costs in future seasons.
Nutrient Strategy Focused on Efficiency
This oat program is built around a targeted, efficient fertility approach:
- 60 units of nitrogen (N)
- 20 pounds of sulfur (S)
- No phosphate applications due to sufficient soil levels
- Minimal potash, with possible in-season adjustments
The goal is simple: apply only what the crop needs and maximize the return on every input dollar.
Integrating Biologicals and Seed Treatments
To further enhance performance, this trial includes a combination of biological inputs and seed treatments:
- Pre-plant biological applications
- Post-applied amino treatments
- Advanced seed treatment with added food source for early vigor
These strategies are designed to improve nutrient uptake, support plant health, and drive stronger overall crop performance.
Exploring Crop Rotation and Double Cropping Opportunities
Beyond oats alone, this project is evaluating how they fit into a broader system:
- Double-cropping soybeans following oat harvest
- Grazing trials using sorghum-sudan grass after oats
- Integration of livestock to improve whole-farm ROI
This approach allows us to test whether oats can serve as a valuable third crop rotation, improving both profitability and long-term soil sustainability.
Data-Driven Trials Across the Farm
The oat trial is just one piece of a larger research effort. Additional trials this season include:
- Nitrogen rate studies
- Plant population trials
- Bio-insecticide evaluations
- Ongoing biological performance tracking using baseline soil testing
Every trial is built around one goal: providing growers with real data from real fields to make better decisions.
A Focus on ROI and Real-World Results
At the end of the day, every decision comes back to ROI.
This research isn’t about theory. It’s about identifying what works, what doesn’t, and how growers can:
- Reduce input costs
- Improve nutrient efficiency
- Increase yield potential
- Build healthier, more resilient soils
Looking Ahead
With strong market potential for oats and increasing demand for efficient farming practices, this trial could open the door to new opportunities for growers in 2026 and beyond.
We’ll continue sharing updates throughout the season as results come in. If you’re interested in on-farm trials or want to test similar strategies on your own operation, reach out to the Wells Ag Supply Team and we’ll get you connected with our Research Team.