Success StorySoil Testing for Success



Soil Testing for Success

Author: Matthew Adams

Planning Unit: Hardin County CES

Major Program: Soils

Plan of Work: Agriculture Technology

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

The success of any crop requires planning and efficient use of all required resources. One of the most important resources in agriculture is fertilizer. Whether it is applied through a commercial product or an organic source such as animal manure, a baseline is needed to enable the producer to efficiently and economically apply any type of fertilizer. Soil testing is the only way to accurately set up this baseline.

The soil testing program in Hardin County has been free to residents since the 1980’s, but it is stronger than ever today. In 2018, Hardin County received 3429 soil samples. Currently, there are 3561 producers registered in the Hardin County Soil Testing Database who either currently use the program, or have used the program in the past. The Soil Testing Program in Hardin County touches a large percentage of the county’s 202,970 acres of farmland each year.

Hardin County Extension continues to grow the soil testing program through outreach and education. The importance of soil testing and proper soil testing techniques are taught at various production meetings and trainings throughout the year. Also, booths are set up at various trade shows and community events throughout the year with literature on soil testing and soil sample bags available for attendees.

The soil testing program in Hardin County continues to provide outreach and a vital service to producers across the county, creating a link between the farm and the university by providing a vital service to producers.






Stories by Matthew Adams


Spray Clinic Teaches Stewardship

about 4 years ago by Matthew Adams

Herbicide application has evolved into a scientific process. With new products and technologies, new... Read More


PVAP Uses old program to add new value

about 4 years ago by Matthew Adams

With the recent downturn in cattle markets, many producers are left wondering what they can do to in... Read More


Stories by Hardin County CES


Horticulture Webinar Wednesdays

Horticulture Webinar Wednesdays

about 4 years ago by Amy Aldenderfer

Horticulture Webinar Wednesdayshttps://kentuckyhortnews.com/horticulture-webinar-wednesdays/During t... Read More


COVID-19 and a change in Direction for the Horticulture Program

COVID-19 and a change in Direction for the Horticulture Program

about 4 years ago by Amy Aldenderfer

When the stay at home order came, the Hardin County Horticulture Agent had many classes planned for ... Read More