Soil fertility management ensures that soil nutrients taken off the land are replaced by the application of fertilizer, slurry and farm yard manure. Soil analysis determines the soils current level of nutrients. Regular soil testing can help to make sure the correct amount of fertilizer are applied, satisfying the nutrient needs of the crop whilst avoiding environmental issues associated with over-supply.
Soil testing can be done on a rotational basis across the farm. Soil pH is the measure of acidity or alkalinity of the soil. Soil pH is important as it affects the availability of nutrients for the plant. Most soil nutrients are available to plants where soil pH is greater than 6 for grass and 6.5 for arable crops. Correcting soil pH will ensure any fertilizer applied is used efficiently.