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Advantages Of Fall Soil Testing

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


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