Soil Testing To Improve Crop Yields and Make Money

Soil sampling and testing is the only way to know how much fertilizer needs to be applied to a field. Whether you are trying to grow 200 bushels per acre corn, fescue for pasture or a vegetable garden soil testing will give you the information you need to make informed decisions concerning your purchases at the fertilizer store.

Soil sampling is best done when you have time to do a good job. A well taken sample will provide valuable information. A poorly taken sample may be worse than no sample if it provides you with inaccurate information. A well-taken sample should represent no more than 20 acres. Ideally 15-20 cores of soil from the surface to six to seven inches in depth should be taken from across the field and mixed together to represent the area. Air dry the soil (not in the oven) and take about a pint to either our office or another soil testing lab. We accept samples year round for soil fertility analysis. Cost: $9/sample. When bringing in your soil also bring information about the crops you want to grow and expected yield goals. If you ever want to revise your soil test report later with a different crop and/or yield goal, we can do that here in the office.

By soil sampling your fields this fall you can beat the spring rush and get your fertilizer needs planned before the last minute. If you have questions about sampling your soil or want to pick up some soil sample boxes call us at (636) 583-5141 or stop by the office at 115 W. Locust in Union.

 

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		Matt Herring - Agronomy/Natural Resources Ken Bolte - Farm Management/Livestock Franklin County University Extension Center Last revised: 11/28/05		Go to Franklin County University Extension Center page