As a rule, the soils are acidic and low in nutrients, requiring both lime and fertilizer. Soil testing reveals exactly how much lime and fertilizer to apply for the specific crop to be grown. For example, acidic soils can inhibit root growth and immobilize certain nutrients. Applying more fertilizer is not likely to correct this kind of nutrient problem unless the pH is also adjusted. Relying on guesswork to solve soil fertility problems typically results in inferior yields, wasted money, and depleted natural resources.
Soil tests replace guesswork with science-based, land management information.
Soil test reports give good guidance for optimal fertilizer application. Following recommendations for lime application produces similar benefits. Studies show that efficiently limed fields are up to 84 percent more productive than unlimed fields. Lime also preserves the long-term productive capacity of the land. The Agronomic Division of the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services conducts soil tests free of charge for all state citizens.