Soil Testing: An Important Step to Maximize ROI, Support Environmental Stewardship

Spring is upon us in Michigan, and despite lingering wet, snowy weather that’s made it feel like a long winter the past few weeks, farmers across the state are gearing up for the growing season.

As technology has improved and the benefits of the practice recognized, soil sampling has become a widely adopted strategy in Michigan. Farmers and their ag retail advisors recognize the importance of having a solid view of a field’s nutrient profile to inform their decision making throughout the growing season.

Now is the time to review soil testing practices and how they are used on fields, especially in terms of determining spring nutrient application rates. Applications should be based on recent soil test data to match application rates with crop needs and adhere to the “4R” principles – right source, right time, right place, right rate.

Close attention to fertilizer management has a wide range of benefits; it helps maximize the economic return of fertilizers, and safeguards against nutrient losses from over-application.

Intensive grid or zone soil sampling programs generate high resolution data to enable variable rate application, equipping farmers with the information they need to increase and decrease nutrient application rates across the field to match soil conditions and yield potential. Rates can be lowered in areas with high nutrient concentrations, saving input costs. Just as importantly, areas with low nutrient concentrations can have yield-limiting conditions addressed, an ROI benefit.

And, as we continue efforts to safeguard the health of Michigan’s soils and the quality of our Great Lakes, soil testing can play a big role. A better view of each field and acre produces a more tailored approach to nutrient stewardship, which delivers environmental benefits.

Crop advisors and ag retailers are valuable assets to assist with collecting and analyzing the data that can go into nutrient management decisions. Working with these partners to build detailed farm management plans that take into account specific site conditions and crop rotations position operations for long-term success.