Why Test?
The nutrient status of a given soil can vary significantly from year to year. Factors such as the addition of fertilizers, reductions or increases in organic matter, harvesting crops, tillage, watering practices, and rainfall can all alter the balance of nutrients in your soil. Unbalanced soil can affect future yields and possibly the health of crops.
A soil test is a valuable tool for monitoring and maintaining optimal soil fertility. When soil testing is combined with sound tillage and organic matter management practices, the chances for healthy and productive crops are optimized. The unique Timberleaf Soil Testing Program goes a step further than most – it takes into consideration the whole-plant environment by testing soil elements plus closely examining cultivation practices.
In every test, we take into consideration the soil differences that can occur locally as well as regionally due to variations in the native mineral content. It is not unusual for us to determine that amendments suitable for one geographical area are completely inappropriate for nearby neighbors or farms.
The soil needs of certain plants can vary considerably. Blueberries, for example, require a more acidic soil than most vegetable crops. A soil test can save you time and money by giving you the information you need to determine which plants are most acclimated to your particular soil condition.
We have found over the years that overuse of fertilizers is a major cause of unbalanced soil conditions. It takes much longer to balance a soil containing excess quantities of mineral nutrients than one deficient in them. With a soil test, you take the guesswork out of fertilizing thus saving time, labor, and unnecessary costs, while helping to preserve the environment.
A soil test is also a valuable information tool for potential new home or property buyers. By knowing the “fertility status” of the land you intend to buy, you will know prior to purchase the pluses and minuses for growing successfully on that property.