Healthy soil, healthy grass, healthy horses – the importance of soil testing this Autumn
When managing our fields, we are very aware that the grass they grow feeds our horses, but have you ever thought about what feeds the grass? Like any other living thing, grass requires the correct nutrition to grow and thrive. As a result, to ensure we are producing good quality forage for our horses, we need to understand what nutrients are available in the soil. Autumn is the ideal time to conduct a soil test to find out says Zoe Morgan, agricultural consultant at ADAS Equine.
What should I test for?
There are a range of soil tests available, so how do you know which test is right for you? Some of the more commonly available soil tests include:
pH: The pH of a soil is an indicator of it’s acidity or alkalinity. The optimum pH for grassland is 6.0-6.5. When the pH falls outside of this range, it affects the soil chemistry, resulting in key nutrients becoming unavailable for plant uptake. If you feel your grass is failing to thrive, determining the pH of your soil is a great place to start.
Major nutrients: Once we have achieved the correct pH level, we can start to manage our major nutrients, which form the building blocks of plant nutrition. Phosphorus, Potassium and Magnesium are the key nutrients to test for.
Micronutrients: In addition to our major nutrients, there are a range of micronutrients which can have an impact either on pasture health, or on the nutritional value of the forage for our horses. Imbalances in micronutrients can have a significant impact on horse health, so understanding the levels in soils and forage can help inform nutritional planning to optimise our horses wellbeing.
When to sample?
The best time to soil sample is in the autumn, when the soils are neither to wet nor too dry, meaning taking samples is at it’s easiest. This also puts you in a good position to plan any amendments, such as manures, fertiliser or lime, ahead of next season.
How do I take my sample?
Taking a representative sample is really important. Because soils might vary throughout a field, aim to take 15-20 samples across the field area, walking in a W pattern. Mix the soil thoroughly before sending to the lab to make the results as accurate as possible.
What do I do with the results?
Soil sampling is only useful when you understand the results!
ADAS Equine provides a specialist service to help horse owners interpret the results of soil sampling. As well as arranging testing, we can explain your results, and provide bespoke recommendations that you can put into action right away to help make the most of your grassland, and boost your horses’ health.
Contact ADAS Equine equine@adas.co.uk to arrange.