Kelly Manufacturing



National & World Ag News Headlines
October a Great Time to do Soil Tests
USAgNet - 10/19/2018

A person can't tell whether a field, lawn or garden has too much phosphorus or too little organic matter simply by smelling and touching the soil.

But, if a sample of the soil is taken to a local University of Missouri Extension center, it can be tested to determine exactly what is needed to maximize the potential of the soil.

A soil test provides information on the nutrient levels (potassium, calcium or lime, and magnesium), percent of organic matter and lime requirements

"With this type of information, a fertilizer and lime program can be determined based on the needs of the plants to be grown and the condition of the soil," said Tim Schnakenberg, agronomy field specialist, University of Missouri Extension.

When taking a soil sample from the lawn, garden or field, use a clean spade and clean pail. Push the spade deep into soil and throw out a spade full of soil.

Then cut a one-inch slice of soil from the back of the hole with the spade. Be sure the slice goes seven inches deep and is even in width and thickness. Place this slice in the pail.

Repeat these steps five or six times at different spots over your lawn, garden or field.

Thoroughly mix the six or seven slices you have in the pail. After mixing the soil to your nearest extension center. Each sample should contain about one and one-half cups of dry soil.

There is a fee for a soil test to cover laboratory costs. Getting results back generally takes from one to two weeks.

The soil test report provides information on soil test results and ratings, suggested fertilizer and limestone treatments for the lawn or field, and fertility management practices or concerns.

Each soil test done with the MU Extension office also comes with recommendations made by a trained and experienced specialist who can also answer any questions you have free-of-charge.


Other National Headlines
TractorPumps.com
Freudenthal Manufacturing
Copyright © 2024 - Farms.com. All Rights Reserved.