SoilView Expert: Soil Testing Now Essential to Stretch Fertilizer Dollars

SoilView’s Chris Nelson explains why soil testing is essential, how it enhances nutrient management, and why growers should focus on data-driven strategies to guide planting and fertilization this year.

STORY CITY, IOWA (RFD NEWS) — Farmers are increasingly looking to enhance nutrient management as mixed weather patterns and shifting input prices continue to impact spring planting decisions. Soil sampling and data-driven fertilization strategies are now a central focus for growers aiming to maximize efficiency and return on investment.

Chris Nelson with SoilView joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to discuss the role of soil testing in modern crop management and why it’s critical for farmers navigating rising input costs.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Nelson said that relying on average yield instead of soil testing results in only about 10 percent of a field being optimally fertilized. He says, even if growers did not complete sampling last fall, there is still a window to get fields tested in early spring.

Nelson also emphasized that soil sampling allows growers to know exactly where every fertilizer dollar is applied, giving them greater certainty and improving ROI. Finally, he advises farmers to prioritize soil testing and other data-driven decisions to make the most of their resources this season.

LEARN MORE: www.soilview.com

Related Stories
Tennessee FarmHER Bridget Bryant’s porch garden evolves into a sprawling community outreach project that provides fresh produce to those in need and teaches urban kids how to grow their own food.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold, President of the University of Nebraska, joins us to discuss the signs and symptoms of cataracts, as well as the available treatment options.
In honor of Rural Road Safety Week, we’re highlighting some commonly overlooked hazards on rural roads, where 40 percent of all fatal crashes in the United States occur.
Following an on-target CPI, the combination could suggest that inflation is cooling.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Cindy Kovar with AgriSafe joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to talk about road safety and agriculture as we age.
USMEF CEO Dan Halstrom joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report for his analysis on the U.S.-Taiwan trade agreement, which includes big bucks for U.S. Beef.
Record U.S. sorghum crop faces weak demand as China slashes imports, while corn farmers warn of rising costs, shrinking margins, and global market pressures.
RFD-TV Markets Expert Tony St. James breaks down the state of agribusiness and harvest progress across each region of the United States for the week of Monday, September 22, 2025.
With the latest detection just across the border, animal health officials on both sides are intensifying efforts to contain the outbreak before it spreads further north.
The USDA NASS report also confirms lower August placements.