Applying fertilisers containing nitrogen and sulphur means the grass uses nitrogen more effectively, you get more kgs of dry matter per kg of nitrogen that you apply
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We don’t always look at soil testing as precision farming, because it has been common practice on farms for more than 50 years. In definition it is, and it’s likely that soil testing after this many years still contributes more benefits to farming than many of the new technologies that we clearly identify as precision farming tools.
That said, soil testing alone does not deliver the benefits, it’s only when the results of soil testing are used to inform nutrient and soil management decisions that the benefits are seen. The results primarily allow you to use organic and mineral nutrients on the farm in the most cost-effective way possible. Too often organic manures are applied on the same parts of the farm, year after year. There are plenty of reasons why this is done, but it’s not maximising the potential value of this valuable resource.
Intensively stocked grassland farms should consider soil testing more regularly. By soil testing every 2 – 3 years you’re in a better position to monitor soil fertility trends. Fertiliser recommendations are not an exact science, hence soil testing more frequently together with measuring grass yields will help you fine tune nutrient management on your farm.
Remember, leys require a continuous and balanced nutrient supply from the soil to achieve their production potential. If a farmer is regularly soil testing, then the £1 ha/year cost is money well spent.
For more information on soil testing this spring search online for “Yara analytical services”
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