Soil testing ROI, where the dollars show up
Soil testing is not an academic exercise. It changes where and when money is spent. Three drivers deliver the return.
- Right rate in the right zones
Deep N profiles and zone sampling let you move nitrogen to the parts of the paddock that can turn it into grain, and ease back where it will not. Case studies show profit coming either from lifting rates in high potential zones or from reducing rates on lower potential areas to avoid haying off. GRDC - Removing hidden constraints
Low pH and subsoil acidity cost Australian growers heavily every year. Liming to raise pH into target ranges restores nutrient availability and root growth which supports higher yields and more resilient rotations. CSIRO Publishing+1 - Better timing decisions
A pre-plant test sets the budget. An in-season N test confirms whether the crop is tracking to plan, which reduces the risk of under or overspending as conditions change. GRDC
Quick checklist
- Sample to depth, not just topsoil
- Test P with PBI for a realistic target range
- Track pH through the profile, not just 0–10 cm
- Use zones for sampling and for application Holbrook Landcare+1
Book soil testing with Dawson Ag and get a paddock level plan for this season.
