ProCrop 1999

CHECK SOIL MOISTURE IN THE SPRING

Soil moisture should be checked before spring planting. Soil samplers can do this by noting how deep moisture is when soil sampling for nutrient analysis. Also, a device can be made of 1/2 inch steel rod and a 5/8 inch ball bearing. Weld a handle on an end of the shaft and the ball bearing on the other end. This probe will penetrate moist soil but not dry soil. Each foot of wet soil of medium to heavy texture can mean 10 bushels of wheat with normal rainfall and temperatures. Knowing soil moisture refines yield goals and fertility programs. Field moisture is variable due to snow catch. Standing residue 20 inches tall can enough snow to wet soil 18-20 inches. Don't underestimate soil water content! Check your fields!

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