A few weeks ago, I outlined some soil testing procedures that you might want to consider if you are pulling soil samples this fall. If you want to check them out, you can find them Under Weekly News Articles on the Crops & Soils page of our Meadowlark Extension District at: https://www.meadowlark.k-state.edu/crops-soils/index.html . This week, I want to focus on some of the reason why fall sampling might have some advantages for forage producers.
First, it gives us some time to plan applications. Soil sampling is recommended on an every three to four-year basis. After you’ve completed that sampling cycle a couple of times, you can start to fine tune your application rates even further. It allows us to better apply what we need to so that we can produce forage economically. Remember: for a good test, take at least 15-20 cores or subsamples from various locations in the stand and combine them for a composite sample. Samples should be pulled from a zero to six-inch depth.
Lime is one of the nutrients we need to be tracking, due to its importance in our forage crop system, particularly if legumes are involved. Optimum pH level is between six and seven, depending on the forage species. Brome/fescue can do well at lower pH’s, but legumes typically prefer pH levels closer to seven (to maintain nodulation). If pH levels are plenty high, adding lime is only going to raise levels further, potentially reducing uptake of macro- and micronutrients. Whenever possible, apply lime as far in advance of the growing season as possible. For a more rapid response to lime, use fine-ground liming materials with a high effective calcium carbonate (ECC).
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Two arrested after Doniphan Co traffic stop
Seven arrested in Atchison drug investigation
Atchison man sentenced on child sex charge
Updated: Mayetta woman now accused of attempted murder
Two arrested after Jackson Co pursuit and manhunt
Atchison woman sentenced on charges in fatal crash
Atchison man facing drug-related charges in Jackson Co
Heavy rain contributed to wreck injuring one person
One killed, 3 injured in NW MO crash
Longtime Sabetha Fire Chief recognized for service
Atchison Co: Motorists reminded to use only hwy detours
Hiawatha City Commission sets fireworks dates, times
Child abuse arrest made in Pawnee County
Brown Co Appraiser re-appointed
Brownville under consideration for small modular nuclear reactor
St. Joseph Mo man injured after boat explodes
HCH CEO advocates for rural Medicare protections in D.C.
Extension district proposal fails to gain approval
LATEST STORIES
Extension district proposal fails to gain approval
Mayetta woman facing firearms, drug-related charges
Flags to fly at half-staff in honor of fallen deputy
Big Beautiful Bill discussed at Humboldt Town Hall meeting
Richardson County approves annual insurance package
Atchison man facing drug-related charges in Jackson Co
Updated: Mayetta woman now accused of attempted murder
Nominees sought to fill local judicial seat