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DAERA has reminded farmers that the period from October to February is the optimum time for taking soil samples as fields should not be tested within three months of the last application of lime, slurry or chemical fertiliser.
Soil analysis will determine lime requirement (measured by pH), soil phosphorus (P) status and potassium (K) status.
The optimum Index for K is 2-, and in general the optimum index for P is 2, although for extensive grazing a P index of 1 is adequate.
The optimum pH for grass is 6.0, while for cereal crops it’s 6.3 to 6.5.
Only 18% of soils analysed in NI are at optimum fertility for pH, Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K).
Instructions
Soil augers and sample bags are available from your local DAERA Direct office along with instructions and guidance in taking your samples.
It is important to remember that under the Nitrates Action Programme 2015-2018 and Phosphorus Regulations you are only allowed to apply P fertiliser or P rich manures (layer litter, pig manure) if you can demonstrate there is a crop requirement.
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