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
Texas Cattle Feeders Association Chairman Robby Kirkland explains how the ongoing U.S.-Mexico border closure impacts feed yards that rely on Mexican cattle due to the New World Screwworm.
Global nitrogen and phosphate prices remain high despite improved supply fundamentals, with limited Chinese exports and stronger fall applications tightening availability.
The Court may limit emergency tariff powers, complicating a key bargaining tool; ag could see shifts in input costs and export dynamics as China, Brazil, and India talks evolve.
David Klein with the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA) shares an end-of-harvest update and a peek at the farmland market in Central Illinois.
Host of RealAg Radio Shaun Haney discusses how the proposed reductions to agriculture programs in Canada’s new budget could affect research and support programs that farmers need.

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:

Farm CPA Paul Neiffer discusses the status of USDA disaster aid, including delays to Stage 2 of the SDRP program, and what farmers should watch for as lawmakers negotiate an end to the government shutdown.
Taryn Fischels, Product Marketing Manager for Precision Upgrades at John Deere, joins us to share a sneak peek of her chat with FarmHER’s Kirbe Schnoor on the Dirt Diaries podcast.
Sen. Roger Marshall explains which types of beef are imported into the United States, how there’s room for new imports, and logical reasons for current high prices.
U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) discusses the USDA’s new cattle plan, ethanol policy, and the broader challenges ahead for rural America.
“Farmers for Free Trade” warns that disaster is brewing as President Trump’s trade policy is causing farm input costs to rise even more.
NCBA CEO Colin Woodall says more conversations need to occur with stakeholders present surrounding President Trump’s proposal to lower consumer beef prices with Argentinian imports.