Nic Ellis is an entomologist with a strong background in the science and research of insect and plant interactions and formed Norden Agricultural to pursue independent advising to conventional and organic growers. During the Crop Health Laboratories’ seminar on plant sap analysis, Nic shared his expertise with growers and explained how vegetable producers in the eastern part of the U.S. have taken advantage of the new sap testing.

Nic provided his initial observations of four of his clients in Pennsylvania’s use of plant sap analysis. He studied Emerald Crown Broccoli, Romanesco Cauliflower, Jolly Elf Cherry Tomatoes and John Boy Peaches. He said that different crop families have difference nutrient profiles, but the nutrient requirements are the same. His end goal is to gather a better understanding of the practical implications of the sap analysis and then develop recommendations for growers.

He also shared with attendees where he sees the future of sap analysis going. “First of all we need to understand these different nutrient profiles in the different cropping systems. That will entail a lot of sampling in crops we don’t have good information on. That is a huge area where we can make gains in 2015. The other area I’m particularly interested in because I am an entomologist, is learning how the nutrients in the plants are effecting the plants physiology.”

Listen to or download my complete interview with Nic here: [wpaudio url=”http://www.zimmcomm.biz/chl/chl-14-ellis.mp3″ text=”Interview with Dr. Nicolas Ellis, Norden Agricultural”]

Find photos from the event here: 2014 Crop Health Labs Power Growers Seminar Photo Album