Spotlight on: Scott Garnett

This time we asked Scott Garnett, ICL’s Agronomist from the UK.

What was the most significant agricultural challenge you helped solve?

I began working on the application of sulfate in autumn several years ago, based on the idea that soils are at their warmest in August and September, leading to peak mineralization. However, when winter crops are drilled, and nitrogen cannot be applied, the benefits of this natural mineralization are lost due to the very low or non-existent soil sulfur (S) levels. By applying a small amount of sulfur at drilling, we can enhance the uptake of available nitrogen already present in the soil.

Over the past 4–5 years, this approach has consistently demonstrated improved winter nitrogen uptake, increasing by 36–40%, equivalent to an additional 10 kg per hectare. This practice has since been widely adopted by many fertilizer companies and advisors, and I am incredibly proud of its impact on agricultural practices.

What professional tip would you like to share with farmers?

Do a full soil analysis, its better to understand what the limiting factor in your soil is. This can help save money on fertilizer applications and help you get the most out of your applications.

Which crops do you specialize in and what makes them unique?

Wheat, barley, and grass are main crops, but I do have a passion for potatoes.

What significant changes are you seeing in the agricultural sector?

Soil health, it is in every conversation we have with farmers or distributors

Scott Garnett in a hop garden in the Czech Republic.