Soil quality can have a major impact on the success of a farm. Soil sampling is a helpful process that can be completed by a knowledgeable geoscientist. It allows you to understand and analyze the contents of the earth around your farm, so you can accurately plan your crops and add essential nutrients. Here are some specific benefits to know before getting started. 

Why Farmers Should Collect Soil Samples

1. Increase Crop Yields

Each year, your crops absorb nutrients and slightly change the makeup of the soil. Understanding the current makeup can help you determine what crops are best suited for each plot or what type of nutrients may need to be added. For example, a plot that is rich in phosphorus can be well suited for legumes or fruit trees, while tomatoes can thrive in soil with high potassium. 

2. Conserve Resources

Farmers often select fertilizers based on the nutrients needed to promote a specific type of crop. However, understanding the current nutritional makeup of the soil before selecting fertilizer can help minimize waste. For example, a fertilizer that’s high in nitrogen may be wasted on soil that already has plenty of this mineral. Soil sampling beforehand can save both money and time. 

3. Build a Sustainable Farm

Soil sampling not only improves the health of crops and prevents unnecessary fertilizer use, but it can also prevent soil from degrading as nutrients are soaked up each year. The process gives farmers the information needed to replace any missing nutrients to keep the soil rich and healthy, which is better both for the environment and the viability of the farm over the long run.

If you’re looking for a geoscientist to help with soil sampling around your farm, contact GeoTek Alaska in Anchorage. The geo-technical drilling contractors offer an array of services and have specialized equipment that can travel throughout the state, even remote locations. Visit the website for a full list of services. To speak with a geoscientist about your project, call (907) 569-5900.