WHAT’S THE POINT WITH GREENPOINT AG
Working with an AG Technology Provider?
Questions You Should Be Asking Once harvest is complete, a farmer’s focus quickly changes to next year’s crop. Soil sampling is a top priority for the fall/winter season, and precision soil sampling is a great starting point for using technology to maximize returns on investment from soil inputs and amendments and field-collected data. Daniel Mullenix, Senior Manager of Ag Technologies for GreenPoint Ag, suggests asking your ag technology adviser five questions to help you get the most bang from your buck as your fields are being sampled and decisions are being made for next year’s crops.
1. How can I ensure the highest quality soil sample? The art and science of soil sampling is sometimes overlooked. However, the impact it will have on sub18
Cooperative Farming News
sequent crops and soil health is tremendous. Quality, representative soil sampling is imperative to ensure the right nutrients are being placed at the right rate in the right place. Make sure your samples are being pulled at a consistent depth, appropriate for your farming practices. University extension recommendations are 3 to 4 inches for untilled soil and 6 to 8 inches for tilled soil. Ask your ag technology partner how many core samples are being pulled per grid or zone. Are they pulling cores across the grid or zone in a manner that truly represents the area? Timing is also important. Pulling samples at the same time each year or on the same rotation will ensure that seasonal variability is minimized. Lastly, moisture conditions play a major role in sample quality. If soil is too wet or too dry when sampled, errors may show in pH readings.
