Why You Should Test Your Soil

Soil testing helps identify nutrient content. Testing your soil helps ensure you are getting the most out of your fertilizer for the healthiest and largest yield. All you have to do is send a 1-pound sample to a lab. That soil will likely represent many acres of soil, so getting a truly representative sample is important. If a good sample is collected, the results should provide a good estimate of the status of the soil.
A soil sample provides you information on nutrients yours may be lacking. Different nutrient levels give you different information on what you need to add.
You can also request things like the percent organic matter level in the spoil and recommended amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to apply.
Before you begin to collect your samples, divide the areas you want tested by field or areas less than 20 acres. You’ll want to collect samples from different parts of each field. In each area collect 15 to 20 different samples. You can place all the samples for the same area in one bucket. After you’ve collected the samples let them air-dry. Once they’re dry you can place the sample in the soil testing bag/box that was provided by the lab. Before sending the soil to the lab, make sure to complete the information required for sample identification, field history and planned crops.
Although sending a sample for a lab test may sound expensive, soil testing is surprisingly affordable. A basic test will usually cost between $5 and $15 per sample. Costs can vary depending on your state, the lab and more your soil is being tested for. It is recommended that you submit a soil test for each field, or in 20-acre increments.
The potential increase of profit outweighs the cost of the test. Testing your soil is beneficial for you, your crops and the environment.
Soil testing provides plenty of benefits for farmers. Healthy soil improves crop growth. Farmers can begin testing their soil before harvest season to get a jump on how they can improve their soil. These benefits can help farmers by:
Soil sampling can also help the environment. Regular usage can wear out the land on which you grow your crops. The biggest impact soil testing has on environmental benefits mean:
Testing your soil helps you feel confident about the health of your crops. Contact your Farm Bureau agent to feel confident in your insurance.