Healthy Soil, Healthy Plants Part II
Another soil test we use is the Comprehensive Assessment of Soil Health, performed by the Cornell Soil Health Laboratory. This test includes measurements of the physical, biological and chemical components of the soil allowing a complete evaluation. Results are color-coded for quick interpretation and longer explanations are also provided. The example below shows test results from our newest property in Lewis Township, OH. This field had been used to grow soybeans for decades. The chemical components such as phosphorus, potassium and minor elements are very good or excellent due to the fertilizers added each year. The soil is not healthy when viewed through the physical property of aggregate stability and the biological components. As we change the management practices on this field we expect the values to improve.
–Jennifer
