Fall Soil Testing Helps Producers Improve Forage Yields and Fertilizer Efficiency

By Jason Vance As producers across the country prepare for the next growing season, fall offers an opportunity to evaluate soil fertility in hayfields and pastures and make informed decisions about fertilizer applications. Soil testing can help forage producers identify nutrient deficiencies, correct soil acidity and better target fertilizer dollars. Christie Preston, a Kansas State University Sustainable Cropping Systems agronomist based in Parsons, said fall is an especially useful time to assess forage ground before the next growing season. “This year we’re focusing mainly on forage, hayfields and pastures,” Preston said. Although soil conditions and nutrient recommendations vary by region, the basic principles of soil testing apply to forage producers nationwide. Testing in the fall allows time to receive results, plan fertilizer purchases and address soil pH problems before spring growth begins.

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