Advantages Of Fall Soil Testing

Nov 20, 2013

By Andrew Frankenfield
Agricultural Educator

Advantages of Fall Soil Testing

The growing season has come to an end and I imagine you’re happy it is over too. However before you go into hibernation for the winter, take advantage of the dry fall we are experiencing and pull some soil samples. Fall soil sampling has a number of advantages.

The first advantage is the fact that you will miss the traditional “spring rush.” Most people, including homeowners and hobby gardeners, will send their soil samples to the laboratory in the spring. Sending your soil samples to the lab in the fall will most likely get you your results in a more timely manner. Secondly, getting your soil test results back before the winter will give you ample time to plan for next year’s crop by purchasing all the fertilizer you need (or maybe even planning for a manure application). If your soil test results come back as less than optimal and it will just take too much time and money to get the field ready for your planned crop, you now have an opportunity to make a change without too much inconvenience. The third advantage comes into play when your soil test results come back with less than optimal pH.

Because pH levels are so important to the growth and health of your crops, liming may be a necessity if your pH levels are too low. Fall soil testing gives you the opportunity to apply needed lime five to six months ahead of when your crops will actually need it, which is ideal because lime takes some time to work into and react with the soil. Plus if you have your lime custom applied it allows you to get on the application schedule ahead of those who call in the spring.

If you do decide to collect and send in fall soil samples, make sure that you get a true representative sample of your soil. Soil test results are only as good as the samples that get sent in, and remember, the soil health of a lot of acres are relying on these few ounces of soil. Take random samples across the field and get at least one soil sample from each soil and land type (wet low-lying areas, hilltops, etc.). Empty all of the samples into a plastic bucket, mix them really well and then get your soil sample from this mix.

Source : psu.edu

Video: Why Port Infrastructure is Key to Growing Canada's Farms and Economy

Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO) knows that strong, modern port infrastructure is vital to the success of Canada’s agriculture. When our ports grow, Ontario grain farmers and Canadian farms grow too—and when we grow, Canada grows.

In this video, we highlight the importance of investing in port infrastructure and how these investments are key to growing Ontario agriculture and supporting global trade. The footage showcases the strength of both Ontario’s farming landscapes and vital port operations, including some key visuals from HOPA Ports, which we are grateful to use in this project.

Ontario’s grain farmers rely on efficient, sustainable ports and seaway systems to move grain to markets around the world. Port investments are crucial to increasing market access, driving economic growth, and ensuring food security for all Canadians.

Why Port Infrastructure Matters:

Investing in Ports = Investing in Farms: Modernized ports support the export of Canadian grain, driving growth in agriculture.

Sustainable Growth: Learn how stronger ports reduce environmental impact while boosting economic stability.

Global Trade Opportunities: Improved port and seaway systems help farmers access new global markets for their grain.

Stronger Communities: Investment in ports means more stable jobs and economic growth for rural communities across Ontario and Canada.

We are proud to support the ongoing investment in port infrastructure and to shine a light on its vital role in feeding the world and securing a prosperous future for Canadian agriculture.

Special thanks to HOPA Ports for providing some of the stunning port footage featured in this video.