Before seed goes in the ground, the soil needs to be ready. In areas like Withcott and the
wider Lockyer Valley, soils work hard through drought, intense rain, and grazing pressure.
Over time, nutrient levels change, pH shifts, and soil structure breaks down.
Planting into poor or unbalanced soil reduces germination, slows pasture establishment,
and wastes valuable time and money.
Soil testing is the most reliable way to understand exactly what your paddocks need, so
you can plant with confidence and get better results.
In this guide, we explain why soil testing matters before planting, what it measures, and
how it helps local farmers.
What Soil Testing Involves
Soil testing is a simple process with powerful outcomes. It includes:
- Collecting soil samples from representative areas of the paddock
- Sending samples to a certified laboratory
- Analysing nutrient levels, pH, organic matter and soil structure
- Receiving a report with clear recommendations
Once results are available, a local agronomist can prepare a plan for fertiliser, lime,
gypsum, or pasture selection based on the exact needs of the soil.
Why Soil Testing is Essential Before Planting
Avoid Planting into Problem Soil
Pasture or crop failure often has nothing to do with seed quality — it usually starts
underground.
Soil testing identifies:
- Acidity or alkalinity (pH imbalance)
- Low fertility
- Poor organic matter
- Compaction
- Salinity
- Trace element deficiencies
Identifying problems before planting allows farmers to correct them early, ensuring seed
has the best environment to grow.
Correct Nutrients for Better Germination
Plants need a balanced diet just like livestock.
Key nutrients include:
- Nitrogen (N)
- Phosphorus (P)
- Potassium (K)
- Sulphur & calcium
- Trace elements
Without testing, it’s easy to either over-apply or under-apply fertiliser. Soil testing lets you
apply exactly what the soil needs — no more, no less.
Save Money on Fertiliser
Fertiliser is one of the largest input costs on a farm. Testing ensures targeted inputs that
deliver results and avoids waste.
Improved Pasture Establishment & Yield
Healthy soil supports:
- Strong root growth
- Rapid establishment
- Better pasture coverage
- Less weed
- competition
Reduce Weed Pressure
Balanced soils promote strong growth, which naturally suppresses weeds like pigweed,
thistles, fireweed, and African lovegrass
Withcott & Lockyer Valley Conditions Make Testing Even More Important
Local soils are unique. Many farms have:
- Highly variable soil types
- Long history of agriculture
- Areas of compaction or erosion
- Extreme rain events or dry periods
Flooding and heavy storms can leach nutrients. Testing gives a clear picture of what
nutrients remain.
How Often Should You Test Soil?
- Every 1–2 years
- Before planting
A Simple Step-by-Step Process:
- We visit the property
- Collect samples
- Send for analysis
- Provide results and recommendations
- Create a plan
Case Study: Local Success
A Withcott property saw strong pasture coverage, improved feed availability, and fewer
weeds after testing revealed low phosphorus and acidic pH.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does soil testing cost?
Affordable and often saves money on fertiliser.
Do I need a sample frome every paddock?
Not alwaays – representative sampling is best.
How long do results take?
Usually 1–2 weeks.
Can you interpret results?
Yes, we provide recommendations
Book Your Soil Test in Withcott
Dawson Ag provides professional soil testing and agronomy support.
- On-farm sample collection
- Lab testing
- Clear results
- Practical plans
Contact us today to book a soil test before planting.
Conclusion
Soil testing is the first and most important step before planting. It identifies issues, guides
fertiliser decisions, improves establishment, and saves money. Healthy soil leads to
healthy pastures and better productivity
