1

SOIL TEST INTERPRETATIONS

AND

RECOMMENDATIONS HANDBOOK

Originally written 1983

By Daryl D. Buchholz

Revised
5/2004

Contributors:
James R. Brown
Deanna K. Crocker
John D. Garrett
Roger G. Hanson
John A. Lory
Manjula V. Nathan
Peter C. Scharf
Howell N. Wheaton

University of Missouri – College of Agriculture

Division of Plant Sciences

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page No.

INTRODUCTION ……………………………………………………………1

NITROGEN……………………………………………………………………6

AVAILABLE PHOSPHORUS……………………………………...……….13

EXCHANGEABLE POTASSIUM…………………………………………..20

SOIL ACIDITY AND LIMESTONE ………………………………………..27

EXCHANGEABLE MAGNESIUM…………………………………………32

EXCHANGEABLE CALCIUM……………………………………………..34

SULFUR ……………………………………………………………………..35

MICRONUTRIENTS (ZINC, IRON, MANGANESE, COPPER)…………..37

CATION EXCHANGE CAPACITY ……………………………………….40

APPENDIX………………………………………………………… ……...41

CROP CODE 201. Southern peas…………………………..…..42

CROP CODE 202. Watermelon ………………………………..43

TABLE A. Double crop yield goals…………………………….44

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List of Tables

Table No. Page No.

I. Nitrogen rate adjustments based upon soil texture, organic matter, and time
of major crop growth 9

II. Equations for determining nitrogen requirements on forage crops 10

III. Nitrogen values for use in recommending N fertilizer for row and small grain crops 11

IV. Equations for determining nitrogen requirements of row and small grain crops 12

V. Bray I soil test interpretations and ratings 15

VI. Phosphorus removal and desired Bray P-I soil test level 16

VII. Definitions of interpretive ratings for phosphorus and potassium soil tests 18

VIII. Fertilizer P2O5 rates required to build Bray P-I soil test level to the desired level
in 4 or 8 years 19

IX. Potassium soil test interpretations and ratings 23

X. Potassium removal and desired exchangeable potassium level 24

XI. Fertilizer K20 rates required to build exchangeable potassium soil test levels to
160 + 5 (CEC) in 8 years 26

XII. Fertilizer K20 rates required to build exchangeable potassium soil test levels to
220 + 5 (CEC) in 8 years 26

XIII. Desired soil pHs range for crops in Missouri 29

XIV. ENM requirements to increase the soil pHs to 5.6 – 6.0 range based upon soil pHs
and neutralizable acidity 30

XV. ENM requirements to increase the soil pHs to 6.1 – 6.5 range based upon soil pHs
and neutralizable acidity 30

XVI. ENM requirements to increase the soil pHs to 6.6 – 7.0 range based upon soil
neutralizable acidity 31

X VII. Effective magnesium requirements to correct soil magnesium 33

XVIII. Ratings for sulfur status of soils 35

XIX. Suggested sulfur application rates when the soil sulfur status is low
dependent on sulfate-sulfur soil test and cation exchange capacity 36

XX. Ratings for DTPA extractable micronutrient soil test levels 37

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LIST OF FIGURES

Figure No. Page No.

1. MP-188 Soil Sample Information Form, Front 3

2. MP-188 Soil Sample Information Form, Back 4

3. MP-189 Soil Test Report Form 5

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INTRODUCTION

This handbook contains information relating to soil test interpretations, and fertilizer and
limestone suggestions used by the University of Missouri Soil Testing Service. This information
is used with chemical soil tests currently used by the University of Missouri soil testing labs.

This handbook is designed to facilitate individuals familiar with Missouri’s soil testing
program in deriving interpretations and suggested treatments based upon soil test levels.

Major contributors to this handbook include Daryl D. Buchholz, James R. Brown, Roger
G. Hanson, Howell N. Wheaton, John D. Garrett, Robin R. Rodriguez, Don Backfisch, John
Lory, Peter Scharf, and Manjula Nathan.

Figures 1, 2, and 3 are the front and back of the Soil Information Form (MP-188) and the
Soil Test Report Form (MP-189) currently being used.

Various other sources should be consulted for more in-depth discussion of soil test
interpretations and information on Missouri’s soil testing program. These sources include:
Fisher, T. R. 1974. Some Considerations for Interpretations of Soil
Tests for Phosphorus and Potassium. Missouri Agricultural Experi-
ment Station Research Bulletin No. 1007.

Brown, J. R., R. G. Hanson, and D. D. Buchholz. 1980. Interpretations

of Missouri Soil Test Results. University of Missouri Agronomy
Department Miscellaneous Publication 80-04.

Brown, J. R. and Robin R. Rodriguez. 1982. Soil Testing in

Missouri. University of Missouri Extension Circular 923.

Computer programming assistance has come through Deanna Crocker, Michael Hess,
Ken Kuebler, Mark Gardner, and Richard Ahrens.
The author would also like to thank the many members of the Agronomy Department
who have been involved in various ways in helping to establish meaningful soil test
interpretations and suggested fertilizer and limestone application rates.
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Nitrogen
The Soil Test
Nitrogen is a mobile nutrient in the soil. Nearly all soils in Missouri require nitrogen for
optimum production of crops requiring nitrogen uptake. The soil test used to estimate the
nitrogen-supplying power is the organic matter test. Some nitrogen adjustments are also made on
the basis of soil texture and time of year that the major portion of the crop growth takes place.
Table I outlines the nitrogen-supplying power of soils for nearly all row crops and small grains.

The Rating System

Soils are not rated on the basis of organic matter content. This is because rapid changes in
organic matter do not occur under normal crop management. As can be noted, soils containing
higher amounts of organic matter generally are capable of releasing higher quantities of nitrogen.

The Recommendations
A. Forages
Nitrogen recommendations on forage crops generally make no adjustments on the basis
of organic matter. Legumes fix their own nitrogen and, therefore, generally, do not have
recommendations for additional nitrogen fertilizer. Table II lists the nitrogen recommendation
equations used for all forage crops that do need nitrogen. Crops not listed have no nitrogen
requirement.

B. Row Crops and Small Grains

Nitrogen needs for a crop are determined on the need to produce the vegetation and
grain portions. The crop needs for nitrogen on a per unit basis are given in Table III. Total
nitrogen needs are calculated using the equation:

NR = (Vm) (Nv) + (Yg) (Ng)

Where: NR = total nitrogen requirement

Vm = pounds of vegetative material per acre
Nv = pounds nitrogen per pound of vegetative material
Yg = Yield goal
Ng = pounds of nitrogen per yield unit (grain)

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Nitrogen requirements (NR) minus the nitrogen-supplying power of the soil (Table I)
based on organic matter content will indicate the nitrogen rate necessary to produce the yield
goal for the selected crop.

Table IV outlines nitrogen calculations used for each row or small grain crop in obtaining
nitrogen requirements.

Cotton (Crop Code 102) nitrogen recommendations are not dependent upon organic
matter but, rather, the soil texture as indicated by cation exchange capacity. The equation used
for determining nitrogen recommendations on cotton is:
NR = 0.1 * (yield – 500) + CEC + 50
with the limits of the lowest recommended rate being 50 pounds nitrogen per acre. No
adjustment is made on the basis of soil organic matter.

Corn (Crop code 103) nitrogen requirements are adjusted on the basis of yield goal and
the assumed population required to achieve a given yield level. These populations are as
follows:
-----------Dryland---------- ----------Irrigated----------
Yield Goal Population Yield Goal Population
bu/a plants/a bu/a plants/a
< 60 14,000 < 140 20,000
60-99 16,000 140-179 23,000
100-119 18,000 180-219 26,000
120-139 20,000 220-259 29,000
140-169 22,000 > 260 32,000
> 170 25,000

The total nitrogen requirements can be determined using this basic equation:
NR = (population/acre) x (4 lbs N/1000 plants) + (0.9 lbs N/bu) x (Yield Goal)

This total nitrogen requirement should then be reduced according to the nitrogen-
supplying power of the soil (Table I).

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Table I. Nitrogen rate adjustments based upon soil texture and organic matter
for warm-season grain and row crops.

Cation Exchange Organic Soil N

Soil Texture Capacity Matter Credit
meq/100g (%) lbs. N/A

< 0.5 20
Sand –
< 10 0.6 to 1.4 OM x 40
Sandy loam
≥ 1.5 60
< 2.0 40
Silt loam –
10-18 2.1 to 3.9 OM x 20
Loam
> 4.0 80
< 2.0 20
Clay loam - Clay > 18 2.1 to 4.9 OM x 10
> 5.0 50

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Table II. Equations for determining nitrogen requirements on forage crops

Crop Code Crop N recommendation equation

1 Alfalfa, Alfalfa – Grass Establishment

3 Clover, Clover – Grass Establishment Organic Matter Lbs. N/acre
< 2.0% 30

≥ 2.0 20

4 Cool Season Grass Establishment < 1.9% 40

2.0 – 2.9% 30
> 3/0% 20

8 Wildlife food plot 117 – OM adjustment

9 Bermudagrass establishment < 1.9% 40

2.0 – 2.9% 30
> 3/0% 20

13 Bluegrass Pasture (Yield goal) x (0.6 # N/cow day)

14 Bermudagrass Hay (Yield goal) x (50 # N/Ton)

15 Bermudagrass Pasture (Yield goal) x (0.6 # N/cow day)

18 Cool Season Grass Hay (Yield goal) x (40 # N/Ton)

19 Cool Season Grass Pasture (Yield goal) x (0.6 # N/cow day)

Cool Season Grass-Seed, Residue Hay 100-130 lbs. N/acre

20
or Pasture

21 Cool Season Grass – Stockpile 160 lbs. N/acre

Fall Growth
24 Sudangrass and etc. Hay (Yield goal) x (40#N/Ton)

25 Sudangrass and etc. Pasture (Yield goal) x (0.6#N/cow day)

26 Warm Season Grass Hay

60 lbs. N/acre
27 Warm Season Grass Pasture
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Table III. Nitrogen values for use in recommending N fertilizer for row crops and small grains

Vegetative* Harvested Product

+
Crop Yield Yield N Needed*** N Lb. N per Soil OM
Code Crop Unit Lbs/A % lbs/A % Yield Unit Adjustment
100 Barley bu/A 3000 0.6 18 2.0 0.96 no
101 Buckwheat lbs/A 2000 2.5 50 5.0 .05 yes
102 Cotton lbs/A - - - - - no
103 Corn, grain bu/A SEE TEXT 1.6 0.9 yes
104 Corn silage T/A - - - 0.45 9.0 yes
105 DC** - Wheat + Soybeans bu/A same as wheat------------------------------------------------------ no
106 DC – Wheat + Sunflower bu/A same as wheat------------------------------------------------------ no
107 DC – Wheat + Grain Sorghum bu/A same as wheat------------------------------------------------------ no
108 DC – Wheat + Sorghum Silage bu/A same as wheat------------------------------------------------------ no
109 Oats bu/A 4000 0.6 24 2.0 0.64 no
110 Popcorn lbs/A 6000 1.2 72 1.6 0.016 yes
111 Rice lbs/A 5000 0.6 30 1.3 0.013 yes
112 Rye bu/A 3000 0.5 15 2.1 1.18 no
113 Grain Sorghum lbs/A 6000 1.0 60 1.4 .014 yes
114 Sorghum Silage T/A NA NA NA .65 13.0 yes
115 Soybeans bu/A NA NA 0 NA 0 no
116 Sugarbeets T/A - - - - 4.0 yes
117 Sunflower lbs/A 3000 1.0 30 2.6 .026 yes
118 Tobacco lbs/A - - 145 3.6 .036 yes
119 Wheat bu/A 3000 0.6 18 2.1 1.26 no
** DC = Double Crop
* Vegetative refers to stalks, stover, straw or crop residues. The yield is assumed for average conditions.
*** Needed N = Yield X (%N x 100)
+
See Table I
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Table IV. Equations for determining nitrogen requirements of row and small grain crops.

Crop Code Crop

100 Barley 18 + (Yield goal) x (0.96) – (Organic Matter Adjustment)*

101 Buckwheat 12 + (Yield goal) x (0.02) – (Organic Matter Adjustment)*
102 Cotton 0.1 * (yield goal – 500) + CEC + 50
Plant population
103 Corn, grain 1000 x (4) + (0.9) x (Yield goal) – (Organic Matter
Matter Adjustment)*
104 Corn, Silage (Yield goal) x (9.0) – (Organic Matter Adjustment)*
105 Double crop See wheat and soybeans.
106 Double crop See wheat and sunflowers.
107 Double crop See wheat and grain sorghum.
108 Double crop See wheat and sorghum silage.
109 Oats 24 + (yield goal) x (0.64) – (Organic Matter Adjustment)*
110 Popcorn 72 + (Yield goal) x (0.016) – (Organic Matter Adjustment)*
111 Rice 30 + (Yield goal) x (0.013) – (Organic Matter Adjustment)*
112 Rye 15 + (Yield goal) x (1.18) – (Organic Matter Adjustment)*
113 Grain Sorghum 60 + (Yield goal) x (0.014) – (Organic Matter Adjustment)*
114 Sorghum silage 13 x (Yield goal) – (Organic Matter Adjustment)*
115 Soybeans None Recommended
116 Sugarbeets (4) x (Yield goal) – (Organic Matter Adjustment)*
117 Sunflowers 30 + (Yield goal) x (0.026) – (Organic Matter Adjustment)*
118 Tobacco 145 + (Yield goal) x (0.036) – (Organic Matter Adjustment)*
119 Wheat 18 + (Yield goal) x (1.26) – (Organic Matter Adjustment)*

* See Table I for organic matter adjustment.

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AVAILABLE PHOSPHORUS

The Soil Test

The soil test to determine available phosphorus is the Bray I or weak Bray test.
Results are expressed in pounds of P per acre.

The Rating System

Crops and crop rotations require different levels of available phosphorus.
Generally, even in row crops, it is recognized that phosphorus response varies. Soybeans
are not as responsive as corn or wheat, for example. However, it is suggested that
phosphorus soil test levels be built to a sufficient level so as not to be limiting in general
row crop production, regardless of the specific crop. Phosphorus soil test level suggested
for row crops and small grains is 45 pounds P per acre. At this level, the potential for
response to additional fertilizer phosphorus is low. A maintenance application of
fertilizer is suggested for soil tests between 45 and 70 pounds of available P per acre.
Forages do well at slightly lower levels of available phosphorus, with suggested soil test
levels of either 30 or 40 lb P/acre. Table V lists fertility indices and the corresponding
soil test levels. Fertility index for a given soil test level depends on the desired soil test
level for a given crop. The equation used to determine fertility index when the soil test is
less than desired is as follows:

FI = (200/STPd) x STPo – (100/STPd2) x STPo2

Where FI = fertility index

STPd = desired soil test P level (30, 40, or 45 lbs. P/A)
STPo = observed or actual soil test P level

The fertility index for soil test levels greater than the desired level is calculated
using the equation:

FI = 100 x STPo
STPd
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Table V. Bray I soil test ratings, fertility indices, and corresponding soil test values.
Soil test levels corresponding to FI
Fertility for desired Bray P-I Soil Test =
Rating Index (FI) 30 40 45

Very Low 0-50 0-9 0-12 0-14

Low 50-75 9-15 12-20 14-22
Medium 75-100 15-30 20-40 22-45
High 100-150 30-45 40-60 45-70
Very High 150-300 45-90 60-120 70-135
Extremely High 300 + 90 + 120 + 135 +

Information on the desired soil test level for each crop is given in Table VI.

General definitions and interpretations for ratings of soil tests are given in
Table VII.

The Recommendations
Phosphorus soil test interpretations and subsequent fertilizer recommendations are
based upon the concept of buildup plus maintenance fertilization outlined by T.R. Fisher
in Missouri Agricultural Experiment Station Research Bulletin 1007 titled, “Some
Considerations for Interpretation of Soil Tests for Phosphorus and Potassium” and dated
December 1974.

The fertilizer suggestion can be defined by its two components, buildup and
maintenance where:
Lbs. P2O5/acre = Buildup P2O5 + Maintenance P2O5
The first component provides for fertilizer P2O5 requirements to increase the soil test
level to the desired level over a specified number of years.
The equation used to calculate annual buildup is:
Buildup P2O5 = 110 x (STPd0.5 - STPo0.5)/Years

Where: STPd = desired soil test level in lbs. P/A (30, 40, or 45)
STPo = observed or actual soil test level
Years = suggested number of years to increase soil test to desired level

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The desired Bray I soil test level and suggested number of years to increase soil test
levels to the desired level are given in Table VI for each crop. Fertilizer P2O5 rates
required to increase Bray I soil test levels to the desired level in 4 or 8 years are given in
Table VIII.

Maintenance requirements are determined using the following equation:

Maintenance P2O5 = (Yield goal) x (P2O5 removal/unit yield)

Phosphorus P2O5 removal is given for each crop in Table VI. In establishment of
forages, no maintenance fertilizer is suggested. Double crop options utilize removal of
both crops in maintenance calculations.

As phosphorus soil test levels increase above the desired level, response to
fertilizer P2O5 addition is not likely. Therefore, only maintenance or less fertilizer is
recommended using the following equation:

Lbs. P2O5/acre = (Yield goal) (P2O5 removal) 1 – 2(FI-100)

100

where: FI = the fertility index as calculated in previous section on rating system

When suggested P2O5 rates are less than 20 lbs/acre, but greater than zero, 20 lbs.
P2O5/acre is suggested.

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Table VI. Phosphorus removal and desired Bray P-1 soil test level for forages
Suggested
Phosphorus Desired Soil Years for
Crop Code Crop Yield Unit Removal Test Level Buildup
lbs P2O5/ lbs P/A
yield unit

1 Alfalfa, alfalfa – grass establishment - - 45 4

2 Birdsfoot trefoil – grass establishment - - 30 4
3 Clover, clover - grass establishment - - 40 4
4 Cool season grass establishment - - 40 4
5 Lespedeza – grass establishment - - 30 4
6 Overseeding legumes into existing grass - - 40 4
7 Warm season grass establishment - - 30 4
8 Wildlife Food Plot cwt 0.0093 45 8
9 Bermuda grass est - - 40 4
10 Alfalfa, alfalfa – grass hay ton/a 10.0 40 8
11 Alfalfa – grass pasture cd/a 0.05 40 8
12 Birdsfoot trefoil – grass pasture cd/a 0.04 30 8
13 Bluegrass pasture cd/a 0.05 40 8
14 Bermudagrass hay ton/a 9.0 40 8
15 Bermudagrass pasture cd/a 0.05 40 8
16 Clover, clover – grass hay ton/a 8.2 40 8
17 Clover, Clover – grass pasture cd/a 0.03 40 8
18 Cool season grass hay ton/a 9.0 40 8
19 Cool season grass pasture cd/a 0.05 40 8
20 Cool season grass seed - - 40 8
21 Cool season grass – stockpile Fall growth - - 40 8
22 Lespedeza – grass hay ton/a 8.8 30 8
23 Lespedeza – grass pasture cd/a 0.04 30 8
24 Sudangrass hay ton/a 6.9 40 8
25 Sudangrass pasture cd/a 0.03 40 8
26 Warm season grass hay ton/a 2.0 30 8
27 Warm season grass pasture cd/a 0.01 30 8
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Table VI (continued). Phosphorus removal and desired Bray P-1 soil test level for row crops
Suggested
Phosphorus Desired Soil Years for
Crop Code Crop Yield Unit Removal Test Level Buildup*
lbs P2O5/ lbs P/A
yield unit

100 Barley bu/A 0.38 45 8

101 Buckwheat lbs/A 0.007 45 8
102 Cotton lbs/A 0.038 45 8
103 Corn (grain) bu/A 0.45 45 8
104 Corn (silage) ton/A 3.6 45 8
105 Double Crop: Wheat – Soybeans** bu/A - 45 8
106 Double Crop: Wheat – Sunflowers** bu/A - 45 8
107 Double Crop: Wheat – Grain Sorghum** bu/A - 45 8
108 Double Crop: Wheat – Sorghum silage** bu/A _ 45 8
109 Oats bu/A 0.26 45 8
110 Popcorn lbs/A 0.008 45 8
111 Rice lbs/A 0.0065 10 8
112 Rye bu/A 0.34 45 8
113 Sorghum (grain) lbs/A 0.0093 45 8
114 Sorghum (silage) ton/A 4.6 45 8
115 Soybeans bu/A 0.84 45 8
116 Sugarbeets ton/A 1.33 45 8
117 Sunflowers lbs/A 0.0083 45 8
118 Tobacco bu/A 0.004 45 8
119 Wheat bu/A 0.60 45 8
201 Southern peas - - 45 8

*Shorter buildup periods may be selected by the user and may be particularly appropriate for variable-rate
fertilizer applications.
**Double crop maintenance P is calculated using the yield goal entered for wheat plus the assumed yields
for double crops given in the appendix.

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Table VII. Definitions of interpretive ratings for phosphorus and potassium soil tests

Rating Fertility Index Definition

Very Low < 50 A large buildup of available

nutrient is needed. Starters
and banding will improve the
efficiency of the fertilizer used.

Low 50-75 A moderate buildup is necessary.

Banding of fertilizer may be
beneficial.

Medium 75-100 A slight buildup is desired, which

may be accomplished with
applications slightly in excess of
maintenance requirements.

High 100-150 No buildup is necessary. Available

nutrient levels should be maintained
with maintenance treatments.

Very High 150-300 The available nutrient level is

presently adequate; no annual
maintenance treatments are needed.
Monitor the level of available
nutrients by soil testing every three
to four years.

Extremely High > 300 The available nutrient level is suf-

ficiently high so as to potentially
cause nutrient imbalance. Use plant
analysis to monitor the situation
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Table VIII. Annual fertilizer P2O5 rates required to build Bray P-I soil test level to the desired level in 4 or 8
years.

----------------------- Desired Bray P-I Soil Test Level ----------------------------

(lbs. P/A)

Observed Bray P-I ------ 30 ------ ------ 40 ------ ------ 45 ------

Soil Test Level 4 yrs. 8 yrs. 4 yrs. 8 yrs. 4 yrs. 8 yrs.
(lbs. P/A) ------------------------------------(lbs. P2O5/A) ----------------------------------------

2 112 56 135 68 146 73

4 96 48 119 60 129 65
6 83 42 106 53 117 58
8 73 36 96 48 107 53
10 64 32 87 43 98 49
12 55 28 79 39 89 45
14 48 24 71 36 82 41
16 41 20 64 32 74 37
18 34 17 57 29 68 34
20 28 14 51 25 61 31
22 22 11 45 22 55 28
24 16 8 39 20 50 25
26 10 5 34 17 44 22
28 5 3 28 14 39 19
30 0 0 23 12 34 17
32 0 0 18 9 29 14
34 0 0 14 7 24 12
36 0 0 9 4 19 10
38 0 0 4 2 15 7
40 0 0 0 0 11 5
42 0 0 0 0 6 3
44 0 0 0 0 2 1
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EXCHANGEABLE POTASSIUM

The Soil Test

The soil test used to determine the exchangeable potassium level is an extraction with
neutral, one normal ammonium acetate. Results are recorded in pounds of K per acre. Cation
exchange capacity (CEC) is also used in making interpretations and recommendations. The CEC
is calculated by adding the milli-equivalents of calcium, magnesium, potassium, and hydrogen.
CEC is expressed in milli-equivalents (meq) per 100 grams of soil.

The Rating System

Desired potassium soil test levels vary with crop to be grown and soil CEC. Forages,
except pure alfalfa stands, have a desired potassium level of 160 lbs. K per acre plus 5 times the
CEC. Row crops desire a level of 220 lbs. K per acre plus 5 times CEC.

As soil CEC increases, desired potassium soil test levels increase at a rate of 5 lbs. of K
per acre with each 1 meq/100g of CEC. For example, corn growing on a soil with a CEC of
meq/100g would have a desired potassium level of 220 + 5(10) = 270 lbs. K/acre.

Ratings for potassium are calculated using the following equation when soil test levels
are less than desired:

FI = (200/STKd) x STKo – (100/STKd2) x STKo2

Where: FI = fertility index

STKd = desired soil test K level (160 + 5(CEC) or 220 + 5(CEC) lb. K/ac)
CEC = cation exchange capacity (meq/100g)
STKo = observed or actual soil test K level

When potassium soil tests are greater than desired, the fertility index is calculated using the
equation:

FI = 100 x STKo
STKd

Relative ratings, fertility indices, and desired soil test levels interpretation information are given
in Table XI.
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The Recommendations

Suggested potassium fertilization rates are based on a concept very similar to phosphorus
interpretations. The components of buildup and maintenance fertilization are again used.

The buildup component for potassium is designed to gradually increase the K soil test
level to the desired level over about an 8-year period.
The equation used to calculate annual buildup is:

Buildup K2O = 75.5 (STKd0.5 – STKo0.5)

Years

Where: STKd = desired soil test level (160 + 5(CEC) or 220 + 5(CEC) lbs. K/acre)
STKo = observed or actual soil test level (lbs. K/acre)
CEC = cation exchange capacity (meq/100g)
Years = suggested number of years to increase soil test to desired level

The desired K soil test level and suggested number of years to build up soil test levels to the
desired level are given in Table X for each crop. Fertilizer K2O rates necessary to build up K
soil test levels over 8 years to a desired level of 160 + 5(CEC) and 220 + 5(CEC) are given in
Tables XI and XII, respectively.

Maintenance fertilizer requirements are determined using the following equation:

Maintenance K2O = (Yield goal) x (K2O removal/unit yield)

Potassium (K2O) removal per yield unit is given for each crop in Table X. In establishment of
forages, no maintenance fertilizer is suggested. Double crop options utilize removal of both
crops in maintenance calculations.

The suggested fertilizer rate to use annually can then be determined by the equation:

Suggested K2O/acre = Buildup K2O + Maintenance K2O

when the soil test for potassium is less than desired.

If the soil test for potassium is greater than the target level, crop use of soil available
potassium is recommended to draw down the available K soil test level. Maintenance or partial

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maintenance fertilizer rates are suggested when soil tests are in the high rating. Calculations for
suggested K2O rates when soil tests are high are made using the equation:

Suggested K2O/acre = (Yield goal) (K2O removal) 1 – 2(FI-100)

100

where: FI = the fertility index as calculated in the previous section on rating

system.

When calculated potassium fertilizer rates are less than 20 lbs. K2O/acre, but greater than
zero, 20 lbs. K2O/acre is suggested.

When soil test potassium is in the very high or extremely high range, no potassium
fertilizer is suggested.

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Table IX. Potassium soil test interpretations and ratings.

Desired Exchangeable Potassium Level (lbs. K/A)

Fertility 160 + 5 (CEC) 220 + 5(CEC)
Index ---------------------------CEC-------------------------- ----------------------------CEC-------------------------
Rating (FI) 6 12 18 6 12 18
(lbs. K/A soil test)

Very Low 0-50 0-56 0-65 0-74 0-74 0-83 0-91

Low 50-75 56-95 65-110 74-125 74-125 83-140 95-155
Medium 75-100 95-190 110-220 125-250 125-250 140-280 155-310
High 100-150 190-285 220-330 250-375 250-375 280-420 310-465
Very High 150-300 285-570 330-660 375-750 375-750 420-840 465-930
Extremely High 300+ 570+ 660+ 750+ 750+ 840+ 930+
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Table X. Potassium removal and desired exchangeable potassium soil test level for forages

Suggested
Potassium Desired Soil Years for
Crop Code Crop Yield unit Removal Test Level Buildup
lbs K2O/ lbs K/a
yield unit

1 Alfalfa, alfalfa – grass establishment - - 220 + (5 x CEC) 8

2 Birdsfoot trefoil – grass establishment - - 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
3 Clover, clover - grass establishment - - 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
4 Cool season grass establishment - - 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
5 Lespedeza – grass establishment - - 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
6 Overseeding legumes into existing grass - - 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
7 Warm season grass establishment - - 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
8 Wildlife food plot lb/a 0.006 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
9 Bermudagrass establishment - - 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
10 Alfalfa, alfalfa – grass hay ton/a 45 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
11 Alfalfa – grass pasture cd/a 0.23 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
12 Birdsfoot trefoil – grass pasture cd/a 0.10 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
13 Bluegrass pasture cd/a 0.15 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
14 Bermudagrass hay ton/a 34 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
15 Bermudagrass pasture cd/a 0.17 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
16 Clover, clover – grass hay ton/a 38 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
17 Clover, Clover – grass pasture cd/a 0.19 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
18 Cool season grass hay ton/a 34 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
19 Cool season grass pasture cd/a 0.17 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
20 Cool season grass seed - - 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
21 Cool season grass – stockpile Fall growth - - 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
22 Lespedeza – grass hay ton/a 20 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
23 Lespedeza – grass pasture cd/a 0.10 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
24 Sudangrass hay ton/a 19 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
25 Sudangrass pasture cd/a 0.09 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
26 Warm season grass hay ton/a 14.6 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
27 Warm season grass pasture cd/a 0.07 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
 20
Table X (continued). Potassium removal and desired exchangeable potassium soil test level for row crops

Suggested
Potassium Desired Soil Years for
Crop Code Crop Yield unit Removal Test Level Buildup*
lbs K2O/ lbs K/a
yield unit
100 Barley bu/a 0.24 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
101 Buckwheat lbs/a 0.003 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
102 Cotton lbs/a 0.035 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
103 Corn (grain) bu/a 0.30 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
104 Corn (silage) ton/a 9.0 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
105 Double Crop: Wheat – Soybeans** bu/a - 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
106 Double Crop: Wheat – Sunflowers** bu/a - 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
107 Double Crop: Wheat – Grain Sorghum** bu/a - 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
108 Double Crop: Wheat – Sorghum silage** bu/a - 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
109 Oats bu/a 0.19 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
110 Popcorn lbs/a 0.005 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
111 Rice lbs/a 0.004 125 + (5 x CEC) 8
112 Rye bu/a 0.34 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
113 Sorghum (grain) lbs/a 0.006 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
114 Sorghum (silage) ton/a 10.0 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
115 Soybeans bu/a 1.44 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
116 Sugarbeets ton/a 3.33 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
117 Sunflowers lbs/a 0.007 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
118 Tobacco lbs/a 0.04 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
119 Wheat bu/a 0.30 220 + (5 x CEC) 8
201 Southern peas - - 160 + (5 x CEC) 8
*Shorter buildup periods may be selected by the user and may be particularly appropriate for variable-rate fertilizer applications.
**Double crop maintenance K is calculated using the yield goal entered for wheat plus the assumed yields for double crops given
in the appendix.

20
 21

Table XI. Annual fertilizer K2O rates required to build exchangeable potassium soil test
levels to 160 + 5 x (CEC) in 8 years.

CEC (meq/100g)
Soil Test Level 4 8 12 16 20
(lbs. K/a) --------------------------------------(lbs. K2O/A)--------------------------------------

40 67 74 80 86 92
60 54 60 67 73 79
80 42 49 56 62 68
100 32 39 46 52 58
120 23 30 36 43 49
140 15 22 28 34 40
160 7 14 21 27 33
180 0 7 13 20 26
200 0 0 7 13 19
220 0 0 0 6 12
240 0 0 0 0 6
260 0 0 0 0 0
Target level 180 200 220 240 260

Table XII. Annual fertilizer K2O rates required to build exchangeable potassium soil test
levels to 220 + 5 x (CEC) in 8 years.

CEC (meq/100g)
Soil Test Level 4 8 12 16 20
(lbs. K/A) --------------------------------------(lbs. K2O/A)--------------------------------------

40 86 92 98 104 109
60 73 79 85 90 96
80 62 68 74 79 84
100 52 58 64 69 74
120 43 49 55 60 65
140 34 40 46 52 57
160 27 33 39 44 49
180 20 26 31 37 42
200 13 19 24 30 35
220 6 12 18 23 29
240 0 6 12 17 23
260 0 0 6 11 17
280 0 0 0 6 11
300 0 0 0 0 5
320 0 0 0 0 0
Target level 240 260 280 300 320
 22

SOIL ACIDITY AND LIMESTONE RECOMMENDATIONS

The Soil Test

Soil acidity is measured on the basis of the salt pH (pHs) of the soil. The pHs measures
the active acidity in the soil and indicates whether limestone applications are needed. To
determine the amount of reserve acidity or limestone requirement to neutralize the soil acidity,
the milli-equivalents of neutralizable acidity is measured by the Woodruff Buffer.

The Rating System

A general rating scheme for the pHs measurement for crops is shown below. The rating
has been divided into two groupings. Alfalfa is a sensitive crop to soil acidity and, therefore, has
a separate rating.

All Other
Rating Alfalfa Crops
------------------- pHs Range-----------------

Very low < 5.0 < 4.5

Low 5.0-5.8 4.5-5.3
Medium 5.8-6.5 5.3-6.0
High 6.5-7.5 6.0-7.5
Very High > 7.5 > 7.5

Soils with a pHs rating of very low or low have a definite need for limestone. These soils
may be limiting yield potential due to severe soil acidity. A medium pHs indicates a need for
limestone in the near future, but soil acidity is likely not causing yield reductions at the time of
the test. Soils rated high have a soil pHs optimum for crop growth and limestone is not needed in
the next two or three years.
 23
Limestone Recommendations

Limestone recommendations for all crops are based upon a single application of the
suggested amount of effective neutralizing material (ENM). The suggested amount should bring
the pHs of the soil to within the optimum range for crop growth. When multiple crop options are
selected, the suggested lime rate is based upon the crop demanding the highest pHs.

The crops and optimum pHs ranges for the soil regions in Missouri are given in Table
XIII. All soils used for row crops should be limed to a pHs of 6.1 to 6.5. Soils growing forage
crops vary in optimum pHs levels. Alfalfa and clover need a slightly higher pHs for optimum
growth. Forage crops grown in the Cherokee Prairies, Ozarks, and Ozark Border areas (Soil
Regions 5, 6, 7, and 8) generally have a higher optimum pHs range due to high levels of subsoil
acidity.

To determine the recommended rate of effective neutralizing material (ENM), locate the
desired pHs range according to the cropping plan and soil region from which the sample was
obtained (Table XIII). Then refer to the appropriate table (Tables XIV-XVI) to determine ENM
requirements based upon the level of neutralizable acidity and pHs.

To determine limestone needs in tons/acre, divide the ENM requirement by the ENM
index for the liming material to be used. All liming materials are sold with a guaranteed ENM
value as provided for by the Missouri Liming Law.

23
 24

Table XIII. Desired Soil pHs range for crops in Missouri

Soil Regions
5, 6, 7, 8 1, 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 12
Cherokee Prairies, Ozarks,
Crop Code Crop and Ozark Borders All Other Soils

1 Alfalfa establishment 6.6-7.0 6.1-6.5

2 Birdsfoot trefoil – Grass est. 6.1-6.5 5.6-6.0
3 Clover establishment 6.1-6.5 5.6-6.0
4 Cool season grass est. 5.6-6.0 5.6-6.0
5 Lespedeza – Grass est. 6.1-6.5 5.6-6.0
6 Overseeding legumes 6.1-6.5 5.6-6.0
7 Warm season grass est. 5.6-6.0 5.6-6.0
10, 11 Alfalfa 6.6-7.0 6.1-6.5
12 Birdsfoot – trefoil pasture 6.1-6.5 5.6-6.0
13 Bluegrass pasture 5.6-6.0 5.6-6.0
14, 15 Bermudagrass 5.6-6.0 5.6-6.0
16, 17 Clover 6.1-6.5 5.6-6.0
18,19.20,21 Cool season grasses 5.6-6.0 5.6-6.0
22, 23 Lespedeza 6.1-6.5 5.6-6.0
24, 25 Sudangrass 5.6-6.0 5.6-6.0
26, 27 Warm season grasses 5.6-6.0 5.6-6.0

100-119 All row crops 6.1-6.5 6.1-6.5

 25

Table XIV. ENM (effective neutralizing material) requirements to increase the soil pHs
to the 5.6 – 6.0 range based upon soil pHs and neutralizable acidity (NA).

ENM = (400) NA - NA
19.109 – 4.802(pHs) + 0.297(pHs)2

Neutralizable Acidity -----------------------------pHs------------------------------

meq/100g 4.0 4.4 4.8 5.2 5.5
---------------------Lbs. ENM/A-------------------

1.0 314 298 262 216 162

2.0 628 586 524 431 324
3.0 942 878 787 647 487
4.0 1256 1171 1049 863 649
5.0 1570 1464 1311 1078 811
6.0 1884 1757 1573 1294 973
7.0 2198 2049 1835 1509 1136
8.0 2512 2342 2097 1725 1298
9.0 2826 2635 2360 1941 1460
10.0 3140 2928 2622 2156 1622

Table XV. ENM (effective neutralizing material) requirements to increase the soil pHs to the
6.1 – 6.5 range based upon soil pHs and neutralizable acidity (NA).

ENM = (400) NA - NA
41.425 – 10.307(pHs) + 0.629(pHs)2

Neutralizable Acidity ------------------------------pHs------------------------------

meq/100g 4.0 4.4 4.8 5.2 5.5 6.0
---------------------Lbs. ENM/A-------------------

1.0 361 352 338 317 283 220

2.0 722 703 676 635 567 441
3.0 1083 1055 1014 952 850 661
4.0 1444 1406 1352 1269 1134 882
5.0 1805 1758 1690 1587 1417 1102
6.0 2166 2109 2028 1904 1701 1322
7.0 2527 2461 2365 2221 1984 1543
8.0 2888 2812 2703 2538 2267 1763
9.0 3249 3164 3041 2856 2551 1983
10.0 3610 3515 3379 3173 2834 2204
 26

Table XVI. ENM (effective neutralizing material) requirements to increase the soil
pHs to the 6.6 – 7.0 range based upon soil neutralizable acidity (NA).

ENM = (400) (NA)

Neutralizable Acidity ENM

meq/100g (lbs/A)

1.0 400
2.0 800
3.0 1200
4.0 1600
5.0 2000
6.0 2400
7.0 2800
8.0 3200
9.0 3600
10.0 4000
 27

EXCHANGEABLE MAGNESIUM

The Soil Test

Exchangeable magnesium is extracted from the soil using neutral, one normal ammonium
acetate.

The Rating System

The rating of a magnesium soil test is based upon the magnesium saturation level of the
soil cation exchange. Higher levels of magnesium saturation are suggested on forages to help
prevent grass tetany. Two general groupings are used for the magnesium ratings.

All Other
Rating Forage Grasses Crops
% Mg Saturation of CEC

Very low <5 <2

Low 5 – 10 2–5
Medium 10 – 15 5 – 10
High 15 – 35 10 – 32.5
Very high 35 – 55 32.5 – 55
Extremely high > 55 > 55

Magnesium Recommendations

Corrective magnesium is suggested as effective magnesium (E.M.) when the magnesium

saturation of the total cation exchange of a soil falls below 5%. Soils containing between 5.1 and
9.9 percent magnesium saturation are considered to be less than optimum in magnesium and a
resulting triple asterisk (***) will appear in the recommendations. This is to indicate that if
dolomitic limestone is readily available, it may be used but crop response to magnesium is not
likely. Table XVII outlines the suggested magnesium rates to be used as corrective treatments.
Soils low in magnesium should be retested after four years to determine levels of magnesium
following treatments.
 28

To determine the quantity of a magnesium liming material necessary to correct soils low
in exchangeable magnesium, divide the effective magnesium (E.M.) by the effective magnesium
index for the liming material to be used.

Table XVII. Effective magnesium requirements to correct soil magnesium.

------------Cation Exchange Capacity (meq/100g)--------------

Exchangeable Magnesium 6 10 14 18 22 26 30
(lbs. Mg/A) --------------Effective Magnesium (E.M.) lbs/A--------------

40 60 100 140 180 220 260 300

80 50 80 110 135 175 210 240
120 35 60 85 110 130 155 180
160 25 40 55 70 90 105 120
200 20 20 30 35 45 50 60
240 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

28
 29

EXCHANGEABLE CALCIUM

The Soil Test

Exchangeable calcium is extracted using neutral, one normal ammonium acetate.

The Ratings

Ratings for calcium are based on the soil pHs level and not on the calcium soil test. If the
pHs is very low or low, calcium is rated medium. Calcium is rated high if the pHs is medium or
higher.

Recommendations

Calcium is rarely, if ever, deficient in field soils. No recommendations for calcium are
made on the basis of soil test exchangeable calcium. Exchangeable calcium is primarily used to
aid in determining the estimated soil cation exchange capacity.
 30

SULFUR

The Soil Test

There are two suggested soil tests to be used for interpreting sulfur needs: 1) extractable
sulfate-sulfur using 500 ppm P as Ca(H2PO4)2 • 2 H2O in 2 N acetic acid as the extractant and 2)
cation exchange capacity determined by summing the milliequivalents of exchangeable calcium,
magnesium, potassium and hydrogen.

The Rating System

The rating system used for sulfur involves both soil sulfate-sulfur and cation exchange
capacity. Research by Dr. R.G. Hanson has indicated that soils with either a sulfate-sulfur
content greater than 7.5 ppm SO4-S or a cation exchange capacity greater than 6.5 meq/100g are
not likely to respond to fertilizer sulfur application. A simple table can be used to show rating
for the sulfur status of Missouri soils (Table XVIII).

Table XVIII. Ratings for sulfur status of soils.

Cation Exchange
Soil Capacity (meq/100g)
Sulfate-Sulfur 0-6.5 6.5 +
(ppm SO4-S) -------Sulfur Status------

0-7.5 Low Medium

7.5 + Medium High

The Suggested Treatment

For row crops, small grains, and alfalfa, apply 10 to 20 pounds of S per acre, annually,
when soil test rating for S is low. Most other forages do not require S even when the soil sulfur
status is low.
 31
Sulfur is not suggested on soils testing adequate based on either cation exchange capacity
or the sulfate-sulfur soil test.

Table XIX. Suggested sulfur application rates when the soil sulfur status is low dependent on
sulfate-sulfur soil test and cation exchange capacity.

Crop Code Crops Sulfur Rate

(lbs. S/A)

2-7, 11-27 All forages except alfalfa hay 0

1, 10, 11, 101-110 Alfalfa and all row crops and small grains 15

31
 32

MICRONUTRIENTS (ZINC, IRON, MANGANESE, COPPER)

The Soil Test

The soil test used for micronutrient analysis is termed the DTPA extraction method.
Results are expressed in parts per million (ppm) of each micronutrient.

The Rating System

The rating system used for soil tests is based on information from Soltanpour, P.N. and
A.P. Schwab. 1977. Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis. 8(3). 195-207.
Table XX shows relative ratings for levels of the four micronutrients.

Zinc deficiencies have been noted in Missouri on soils with sandy texture, low organic
matter and on graded or eroded areas where subsoils are exposed.

Iron, manganese, and copper have not been shown to be deficient in any widespread
cases in Missouri. Only in very isolated cases would deficiency of any of these micronutrients
be expected.

Table XX Ratings for DTPA extractable micronutrient soil test levels.

Soil Test Rating Zinc Iron Manganese Copper

----------------------------------- ppm -----------------------------------

Low 0-0.5 0-2.0 0-1.0 0-0.2

Medium 0.5-1.0 2.1-4.5 - -
High 1.0 + 4.6 + 1.0 + 0.2 +
 33

The Suggested Treatments

Zinc
The zinc ratings and recommendations are for use in corn and grain sorghum. These
recommendations are for a single corrective soil application that should last from three to five
years. Some zinc fertilizers are highly insoluble and poor sources of zinc. Zinc sulfate is
recommended. If chelates are used, decrease application by 1/3 to 1/2 and apply annually.
Monitor levels with frequent soil tests and plant analyses.

DTPA Suggested
Soil Test Application
Level Rating Rate
ppm Zn lbs. Zn/acre

0 – 0.5 Low 10
0.5 – 1.0 Medium 5
1.0 + High 0

Iron
Foliar sprays of 0.5 to 3 pounds of actual iron per acre have been shown to be most
effective. These may be suggested when soils test low in iron and when visual deficiency
symptoms are seen. This is most likely to occur on high pH soils in the Missouri River bottom.
Soil applications of iron have not been very effective in correcting iron deficiencies. Long-term
correction can best be achieved with the application of farmyard manure.

Copper
Soils testing low in copper should be monitored for deficiency symptoms. Foliar
application according to manufacturer’s suggested rates per acre should be adequate to correct
any deficiency symptoms that may occur. Soil applications of 2 to 8 pounds of copper per acre
may be used, but will be of doubtful value. One-half that rate would be suggested if using soil
applied chelates.

Manganese

Soils testing low in manganese should be monitored for deficiency symptoms. Foliar
applications of 1-2 pounds of actual manganese per acre should correct any deficiencies that may
occur.
 34

CATION EXCHANGE CAPACITY

Soil cation exchange capacity (CEC) is determined by adding the milli-equivalents of

calcium, magnesium, potassium, and hydrogen based upon soil tests measuring those nutrients.
This is only an estimate of the CEC and in should not be confused with other more accurate
methods of measurement.

The Rating System

Soil CEC is used as a method of estimating the soil texture.

Cation Exchange Capacity Soil Texture

meq/100g

< 5.0 Sand

5.1 – 10.0 Sandy loam
10.1 – 18.0 Silt loam
18.1 – 24.0 Clay loam
> 24.0 Clay

The method used to calculate CEC is:

meq/100g = lbs. Ca/A + lbs. Mg/A + lbs. K/A + meq of neutralizable acidity
400 240 780

Cation saturation can also be determined from these calculations. Convert lb/acre to
meq/100g of the cation (as above), then divide by the CEC of the soil. Example:

lbs. Ca/A = 2400

meq Ca/100g = 2400 = 6
400
CEC = 10.0 meq/100g
Therefore, % calcium saturation = 6 = 60%
10
 35

APPENDIX

Table A. The following table lists the assumed yield goals for the second crop in a double
crop system.

Crop code Crop Yield goal for 2nd crop

105 Wheat – soybean 30 bu/a (40 if irrigated)
106 Wheat – sunflower 1000 lbs/a
107 Wheat – grain sorghum 5000 lbs/a
108 Wheat – sorghum silage 10 tons/a