A soil test for available sulfate in the soil profile is available. For proper interpretation of this test, soil organic matter, soil texture, the crop to be grown, and the expected yield level all need to be considered.

Understanding the complexity of plant and soil interactions, and the relationships among roots, nutrients and soil composition, is key to assessing future crop health.

Tillage practices that conserve moisture, plants that use water more efficiently and soil with more organic matter have produced higher yields even in dry conditions, according to South Dakota State University soil scientist David Clay.

Many growers have taken out their grassed waterways after tiling their fields, but South Dakota State University Extension says this doesn't prevent all soil erosion.

Crimson clover was first used in the U.S. in the south as a pasture legume.

The total phosphorus content in manure varies depending on the animal species, age, diet and how the manure has been stored.

At first glance, soil sampling would seem to be a relatively easy task. However, when you consider the variability that likely exists within a field because of inherent soil formation factors and past production practices, the collection of a representative soil sample becomes more of a challenge.