Why Soil Testing Pays Off

Drew McGilchrist

Sales Agronomist, Wilmar AgServices

Soil testing has become one of the most valuable tools available to modern agriculture because it enables farmers to make better decisions around crop management.

Soil sampling provides a clear picture of nutrient availability, soil condition and emerging constraints.

With this information, growers can optimise their fertiliser management plan to target specific deficiencies, improving crop performance while avoiding inputs that deliver little return.

In many cases, this leads to more efficient fertiliser use and reduced costs through the removal of unnecessary nutrient applications.

Another key advantage of soil testing is the ability to move away from a one-size-fits-all approach. Results are specific to individual paddocks, so you can design a management plan specific to your farm and local conditions.

Soil sampling also plays an important role in managing soil health over time. Regular testing allows growers to track changes, identify trends and respond early to issues that may affect productivity in future seasons.

Just as importantly, laboratory-based results are a reliable foundation for making sensible decisions about farm management, rather than the status quo of historical fertiliser application.

Finally, soil testing helps ensure your nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium budgets are aligned with current regulations.

Wilmar AgServices offers a soil sampling service for selected paddocks, with a fee applied to cover the soil analysis. Results are provided in a timely manner, highlighting any deficiencies and potential solutions for your farm management.

Agronomy staff can provide additional advice and recommendations on fertiliser selection, as well as costing and application rates.

Contact us on 1800 881 957 to find out more.

Wilmar AgServices Sales Agronomist Drew McGilchrist can provide a soil testing service,

enabling growers to make more informed decisions about their fertiliser management plan.

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