Soil Analysis: The Foundation of Productive Agriculture

Soil analysis is the cornerstone of a successful fertilization program. Fertilization done without knowing the current nutrient status of your soil can lead to both economic losses and environmental damage.

Why Should We Have Soil Analysis Done?

1. Economic Fertilization: Reduces costs by applying only the needed nutrients. 2. Environmental Protection: Prevents damage from over-fertilization to groundwater and ecosystems. 3. Yield Increase: Enables you to reach optimum yield by detecting deficient nutrients. 4. Soil Health: Detects problems such as pH imbalances and salinity in advance.

How to Take Soil Samples?

Required Materials

• Stainless steel or plastic shovel

• Clean plastic bucket

• Sample bags

• Label and pen

  Sampling Steps

  1. Timing: Take samples after harvest or before planting.

2. Depth: Take from 0-30 cm for field crops, 0-60 cm for fruit trees. 3. Zigzag Method: Collect samples from at least 15-20 points by zigzagging across your field. 4. Mixing: Mix all samples thoroughly in the bucket. 5. Sub-sample: Take about 1 kg sample from the mixture and put it in a bag. 6. Labeling: Write field name, sample date and depth information.

Interpreting Analysis Results

pH Value

• < 6.0: Acidic soil, liming may be required

• 6.0 - 7.5: Optimal range

• > 7.5: Alkaline soil, acidic fertilizers should be preferred

  Organic Matter

• < 2%: Low, organic matter supplementation needed

• 2 - 4%: Medium

• > 4%: High

  Macro Nutrients

Compare Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) values with critical levels.

Conclusion

Regular soil analysis is the key to sustainable and profitable agriculture. We recommend having soil analysis done at least once a year.