Growers undertaking soil tests this autumn should be aware of the difference between a standard and broad-spectrum soil analysis and how the minimal cost increase can provide additional data to influence crop nutrition inputs, both now and across the next five years.

That's the message from Abby Kellett, nutrition agronomist at Origin Soil Nutrition, who says the per hectare difference between a standard and broad-spectrum test is an increase of just £2.85/ha (see table). Breaking this figure down further, growers in England must comply with Farming Rules for Water, which means holding a valid soil test for each field that is within five years old. Averaged out across a five-year period, it's a 57p/ha/yr increase to change from a standard to a broad-spectrum nutrient analysis. 

"This is a small cost to return a data bank that will influence crop nutrition inputs across the next five years and ensure growers are applying the right fertiliser, tailored to crop and soil requirements. The real cost of staying with a standard sample could be much higher than you think, as growers and agronomists won't have the data to improve yield and quality." 

Abby says a soil test is a snapshot into soil health, and broad-spectrum tests analyse 15 different nutrients whereas a standard test only measures the four major nutrients. She continues: "This additional data is so important. When macro nutrients appear well stocked from a standard analysis, it could be the deficient micronutrients, only measured via a broad-spectrum sample, that are shown as deficient and limiting crop performance." 

Growers should also be ensuring that crop nutrition requirements are ordered for next spring to avoid any delays in fertiliser deliveries. Abby explains that good establishment and strong crops this autumn means nutrition at the right time next spring is essential. 

"Oilseed rape and milling wheat both have high nitrogen and sulphur demands, so ordering now and taking delivery in good time will enable applications when conditions allow. Effectively managing crops out of winter and having fertiliser on farm ready to apply should avoid any issues experienced last season regarding delivery. If it's in the shed, then it's ready to be spread," concludes Abby.