Performing a soil test is one of the most underutilized range management tools. Knowing your soil’s fertility and what nutrients are provided is crucial. Often, producers just put out the same fertilizer they always have and hope for the best.
Soil fertility and health is essential for forage production. When forage production is increased, that means there is less need for providing supplements. When you have to provide fewer supplements, that means less cost for you, the producer. Do you see the importance of taking care of the soil?
In order to improve pasture health, productivity, and longevity, a producer must take a practical first step. This first step is where doing a soil test comes in. However, this often gets put on the back burner as producers deal with the everyday tasks of caring for their land and livestock. Here are five tips to get the most return from your soil test.