A survey was conducted amongst farmers few years ago and when asked whether soil testing is something they should use to improve soil fertility and for raising better crops. Almost 82% of them said ‘Yes’ and almost 28 % of them said that they have used soil tests.
What are those essential aspects to be known about Soil?
A soil test is a process by which elements (N, P, K, pH, EC, Ca, Mg, S, organic carbon,and micronutriants: Zn, Br, Mn, Fe, Cu, Mo) are chemically removed from the soil and measured for their “plant available” content within the sample. The quantity of available nutrients in the sample determines the amount of fertilizer that is recommended in soil testing services. A soil test also measures soil pH, humic matter and exchangeable acidity. These analyses indicate whether lime is needed and, if so, how much to apply.
Soil analysis is a valuable tool for your farm as it determines the inputs required for efficient and economic production. A proper soil test will help ensure the application of enough fertilizer to meet the requirements of the crop while taking advantage of the nutrients already present in the soil. It will also allow you to determine lime requirements and can be used to diagnose problem areas. It is very important that your sampling technique is correct as the results are only as good as the sample you take. Tirupati Soil testing services and agriculture soil testing are a requirement for farms that must complete a nutrient management plan.
Taking samples and testing them is not enough. Instead plan according to the crop. Those who grow seed crops or high value crops should test the soil before every crop. Smart farmers test soil atleast before every crop and when they buy fertilisers based on the same the quantity brought is reduced and hence savings for them. If not tested means no enrichment to the soild and hence the yield will be low. Soil and water testing actually helps a farmer to increase his yield resulting in more returns(cash).
The following information will help you gain a better understanding of your soil results and the role of primary, secondary and micronutrients.
| N | Nitrogen | Helps to form amino acids which are the building blocks of proteins |
| P | Phosphorus | Is utilized in the formation of nucleic acids and other chemicals which help in the development of healthy root systems, early growth, early maturity and seed production |
| K | Potassium | Is similar to phosphorus for root formation and also appears to promote disease resistance. It increases the size and quality of fruits |
| S | Sulfur | Is sometimes referred to as the “4th primary nutrient” since it must be present to form protein |
| Ca | Calcium | Is used in root system and leaf development and is combined with other elements to form cell walls. It also helps by activating other enzyme systems |
| Mg | Magnesium | Is the central atom of the chlorophyll molecule which makes it absolutely necessary for photosynthesis. It also plays a role in phosphate metabolism, plant respiration and enzyme systems |
| Cu | Copper | Is necessary for chlorophyll formation and also acts as a catalyst for other plant reactions |
| Fe | Iron | Acts as a catalyst for chlorophyll formation and also carries oxygen. In addition, it helps form certain respiratory enzyme systems. These functions make it critical to photosynthesis |
| Mn | Manganese | Activates many metabolic reactions in plants and is directly involved in photosynthesis. It accelerates germination, maturity and increases the availability of phosphorus and calcium |
| Mo | Molybdenum | Facilitates a plants proper use of nitrogen. It is also used to convert inorganic phosphorus to organic forms |
| Zn | Zinc | Is necessary for the production of chlorophyll and carbohydrates and aids in the creation of plant growth substances, enzyme systems, and metabolic reactions |
| B | Boron | Is essential for germination of pollen grains, growth of pollen tubes and for seed and cell wall formation. Other functions aid in protein formation |
| C1 | Chlorine | Is used in photosynthesis and helps promote a more disease resistant plant |
