What is the right time for fall soil sampling?
When using soil sampling to plan fertilizer rates for next year, the best time to sample is after soil has cooled to at least 10°C. Cool soils reduce the microbial activity that can mobilize nutrients. Soil samples collected after this activity slows down will more closely reflect spring nitrate contents.
If farms plan to band fertilizer in the fall, plan to soil sample first, but wait until soil temperature is as close as possible to 10°C. This should allow for fall application that will be at lower risk of losses after soils have sufficiently cooled, before the ground freezes.
If hiring someone to take soil samples, talk to that person now and get on their list. Canola 4R Advantage has funding available for soil sampling.
