By CommonGround Nebraska Volunteer Joan Ruskamp

When our son Scott was about three years old, he discovered a fertilizer spreader labeled “Scotts” sitting in our yard. Delighted to see his name on something, he climbed in and made himself comfortable sitting proudly in that clean, green spreader like it was made just for him.

That little moment always makes me smile, and it’s also a fun reminder of how connected we are to the land—from backyard lawns to family farms. Whether feeding a patch of grass or 160 acres of corn, it all starts with giving plants the nutrients they need to thrive.

Have you ever applied fertilizer to your lawn or garden and marveled at the lush, vibrant growth that follows? That surge in greenery is largely thanks to nitrogen, a key nutrient that fuels plant development. Just as we nourish our home plants, farmers enrich their fields—often using manure from livestock like cattle—to ensure robust crop yields.

Nitrogen: More Than Just Green Leaves

While nitrogen is renowned for giving plants their verdant hue, its importance extends far beyond aesthetics. Nitrogen is a fundamental component of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins essential for plant structure and function. It’s also integral to nucleic acids, which carry genetic information vital for growth and reproduction. Additionally, nitrogen plays a crucial role in chlorophyll production, enabling plants to convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis.

Manure: Nature’s Fertilizer

In agricultural settings, manure serves as a natural fertilizer, recycling nutrients back into the soil. When cattle manure is applied to crop fields, it not only supplies nitrogen but also enhances soil structure and microbial activity. This practice supports sustainable farming by reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers and promoting a healthy ecosystem.

Bridging the Gap Between Gardens and Farms

Understanding the parallels between home gardening and large-scale farming can deepen our appreciation for agriculture. Both rely on the careful management of nutrients like nitrogen to cultivate healthy plants. Whether it’s a tomato plant in your backyard or acres of corn in Nebraska, the principles of plant nutrition remain consistent.