Benefits of Deep Profile Soil Sampling and Well Water Testing

Soil testing is highly underutilized. In addition, well water testing is even more underutilized. Significant amounts of N can be found in the soil profile, particularly at 6-24 inches, and in well water throughout the Texas Rolling Plains and Southern High Plains.  Results from a three year study examining the agronomic and economic benefits of deep profile soil sampling and water sampling will be discussed as well as simple N rate fertility trials on irrigated and dryland cotton. When nitrogen is soil or groundwater are not considered when determining cotton nitrogen needs, nitrogen is generally over-applied leading to economic losses and increasing residual soil nitrate.