We can provide GPS soil sampling for nutrients and pH
There are two methods of precision soil sampling - grid mapping (randomly selected points, normally 1 per hectare), zone mapping (samples taken from specific field variation zones).
Grid mapping
Grid mapping is where precision farming started in the UK. It is a basic yet very important part of precision farming.
Grid mapping is designed to bring and maintain your nutrient levels to a given index, utilising variable rate technology on your spreader.
Service use
Variable rate P, K, Mg and pH
Addition of other nutrients where applicable
Soil health analysis can also be added
Benefits
Highly accurate results
Identifying areas which require less/more nutrients
What is involved
Map the boundary
Set sampling points, generally 1ha, ensuring points are not too close to areas such as boundaries, pits and trees
The sampler is guided to each sample point to collect 16 sub-samples
The sampler is able to relocate sampling points due to factors that could lead to inaccurate readings, such as cattle feeders, muck heaps or wet holes
Samples are logged and sent to the laboratory for analysis
Once nutrient levels are measured your precision specialist will tailor variable rate prescriptions to start raising and maintain your indices.
Four years of application data is included in this service.
Before and after Agrovista Precision carried out GPS grid mapping:
Before
A farmer traditionally applies 300kg/ha of 0-20-30 across three fields – 20.81ha.
20.81ha @ 300kg/ha = 6.24t @ £420/t
Total Cost = £2620.80
After
Farm Requirements: 1.7t of TSP @ £510/t = £867
3.85t of MOP @ £355/t = £1366.75
Total fertiliser cost - £2233.75
Total fertiliser saving of £386.25/year
