As we approach the rapid arrival of fall, it's time to prepare for the final harvests of 2023. Taking soil samples from fields that are already being treated or will be treated with Agriculture Pro Source products can provide valuable insights for soil analysis. By conducting a soil analysis on representative soil samples, valuable insights can be obtained regarding nutrient levels, both excesses and deficiencies, which directly impact production quality and quantities. It is recommended to collect soil samples from the same areas or fields within the same month each year, or at least every two years. By comparing the data, we can determine what is working well and identify areas that may require further assistance in the fields treated with Agriculture Pro Source products. Applying Agriculture Pro Source's recommended products enhances the activities of beneficial soil organisms, both those visible only under a microscope and those visible to the naked eye. These micro and macro-organisms work together to improve soil structure, transforming it into a sponge-like medium that efficiently absorbs and holds water and essential nutrients. The soil plays a crucial role in crop growth by readily releasing moisture and nutrients when needed. This ensures optimal growth and reduces issues like uneven distribution of water and dry patches in the field. However, it's important to note that clay-rich soil has a lower water absorption capacity compared to loamy soil, which contains some sand. So, understanding soil composition is vital for successful agriculture. Soil rich in clay has a remarkable ability to absorb water. When water gets adsorbed by the soil, it forms a strong bond with clay particles, making it challenging for plants to access it through their root hairs. Similarly, soil with considerable amounts of dense silt behaves in a similar manner. Pore space, the empty areas between soil particles, is a crucial component. The size of the particles directly affects the size of the pore space. Clay, with its minuscule particles, boasts the smallest, while silt usually comes second. Sand, on the other hand, boasts the largest particles. When considering a soil's texture, the quantities of clay, silt, and sand are key factors. It's worth noting that loam can be seen as a soil texture, although its content is more closely related to soil structure. Water adsorbed by soil tends to stay trapped in the pore spaces of clay and dense-silt soils, which limits root hairs' access to moisture. This trapped water not only hampers further water absorption but also impedes the flow of water through the soil, leading to uneven moisture distribution and uneven crop growth in the field. The presence of adsorbed water in soil pore spaces adversely affects the soil's permeability, which impacts the speed at which both air and water can move through the soil. The products and their application protocols are specifically designed to boost the activities of beneficial microorganisms. As these microorganisms thrive, they unleash a chain reaction, leading to increased activities of beneficial macro-organisms like earthworms and various arthropods. Sandy soil, with its larger particle sizes and ample pore space, differs greatly from clay or dense silt soil. Loam, like a brand-new sponge, plays a crucial role in the soil as it retains moisture and essential nutrients. By incorporating small amounts of sand, loamy soil allows water to evenly infiltrate and percolate throughout the entire field. Infiltration, referring to water's entry into soil surfaces, is greatly enhanced when soil possesses exceptional water absorption capabilities, thereby minimizing run-off during heavy rain events. Infiltration, encompassing both the entry and downward movement of water into soil surfaces, significantly impacts the top four to six inches of soil. Percolation describes the downward movement of water, going beyond the top six inches of soil and the reach of most plant roots. Loamy and sandy soils efficiently channel water to their water table, aided by gravity. In contrast, clay-rich or dense silt soils hinder water percolation. This percolating water replenishes groundwater, a vital resource for springs, wells, and irrigation. Interestingly, as soil structure improves, the amount of irrigation water required for optimal crop production may decrease depending on weather conditions. Percolation refers to the downward movement of water, reaching depths beyond the top six inches of soil.
At Agriculture Pro Source, we strongly advise producers to assess soil moisture content in their fields while determining the appropriate amount of irrigation water to apply. By applying our recommended products, the texture of the soil remains unchanged. The parent materials, including clay, silt, and sand, were formed through diverse geological and weather events. However, when these products are used as suggested, they can enhance the structure of the soil. They infuse oxygen into the parent soil materials and incorporate decomposed organic matter, thereby promoting soil health. Currently, we are assembling the raw materials for manufacturing in preparation for the 2024 production line. We are thrilled to partner with our valued Agriculture Pro Source customers not only during the current year but also in the years to come. Together, we will continue to improve soil structures and witness thriving crop production! At Agriculture Pro Source, we're dedicated to assisting you in boosting your yields and reducing costs. We're excited about helping you achieve your goals! Cheers to your well-being and the vitality of your soil! Let's toast to good health!
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Written by Agriculture Pro Source
August 1, 2023