Nitrogen (N) in fall-applied manure can be lost by leaching and denitrification before crops start to grow in the spring. Although such losses were substantial during the past 2 years, it could be costly to assume that similar losses will occur this year. A more practical approach to handling N fertilization needs is to withhold applications of commercially prepared N fertilizers until fields are tested for nitrate in late spring. This approach makes it possible to adjust fertilization practices for weather.