Before buying fertilizer, producers can find out what their fields actually need. A soil test measures existing nutrients and soil pH, helping guide fertilizer choices for hay meadows, pastures and crops.
Austin and Colorado County livestock, forage and row crop producers can submit samples during a soil testing campaign running Oct. 26 through Nov. 20. Routine analysis costs $8, while analysis that includes micronutrients costs $15. The discounted rates require a completed form. Samples, forms and payment must be turned in by Nov. 20.
Testing can help producers avoid spending money on nutrients their soil already has and identify deficiencies that may limit grass growth or hay quality. Knowing the soil’s pH is useful, too, because it can affect how well plants take up nutrients. Applying only what a field needs can also help reduce excess fertilizer runoff.
In Austin County, sample bags and forms are available, and samples can be submitted at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service office, 800 E. Wendt St. in Bellville; Bellville Farm & Ranch; Linseisen’s Feed & Supply in Bellville; Steinhauser’s in Sealy; 4M Farm & Feed in New Ulm; and Lindemann’s Store in Industry.
Colorado County producers should contact their County Extension Office for local drop-off locations and instructions. Checks for Austin County samples should be payable to the Austin County Beef & Forage Committee. Colorado County checks should be payable to Texas AgriLife Extension.
For more information, call the Austin County Extension office at 979-865-2072.`
