17. What's in a Soil Test? Getting the Answers with John Breker Pt. 1

Ag Geek Speak

Get the download on soil tests and what they actually mean in our latest episode of Ag Geek Speak featuring AGVISE Laboratories' John Breker. We dive into the world of soil testing methods, breaking down the pros and cons of phosphorus tests like Olsen and Bray, and the "new" Mehlich-3 method. Discover why Olsen is often preferred in the Great Plains and how the Mehlich-3 method, despite its promise as a universal extraction tool, might over-extract in calcareous soils. The discussion highlights the importance of selecting the right soil test for accurate nutrient analysis, a crucial step for any farmer or agronomist looking to optimize crop yields.
Managing soil pH and tackling nutrient deficiencies, especially iron deficiency chlorosis in soybeans, can be challenging. John provides an in-depth look at the role of calcium carbonate and the necessity of specific soil tests to combat IDC effectively. We also explore concepts like reserve acidity and cation exchange capacity, explaining how soil texture influences these factors and the difference between water pH and buffer pH. If you're keen on practical strategies for managing soil fertility and improving crop yields, this episode is a treasure trove of knowledge. Tune in and equip yourself with actionable insights from one of the field's leading experts!

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1. Soil Nutrient Calibration for Farmers (00:00:00)

2. Soil Testing Methods and Calibration (00:12:09)

3. Managing Soil pH and Nutrient Deficiencies (00:23:38)

4. Soil Acidity and pH Buffering (00:28:53)