Soil nutrient depletion is set to be a common challenge across Scotland this season, largely due to baling and prolonged wet weather. However, by using soil analysis data, farmers can tailor inputs to address nutrient deficiencies and maintain crop health.

Baling straw is essential for some, and with straw premiums higher than usual this year, more farmers may have been tempted to bale. However, baling removes valuable phosphorous and potassium from the field, which could harm subsequent crops. Julia Andrews, nutrition agronomist at Origin Fertilisers, advises that farmers should carefully consider baling this season.

Julia explained: “If you have baled or plan to bale straw this year, it’s important to know what nutrients are being removed. The season has already left many fields nutrient-deficient, and removing straw may drop nutrient levels further, making them inaccessible to plants. Baling also reduces the amount of organic matter returned to the soil, which can improve structure and limit compaction. This makes the decision to bale more significant in a year like this.”

Julia also pointed out that with persistent wet weather, soil nutrition for the following crops should be a priority. She recommends using a detailed soil analysis to assess what nutrients are needed, especially if baling has taken place, to ensure the use of balanced fertilisers that can replace lost nutrients and sustain future crop production.

Utilising Soil Data

This year, farmers face many uncertainties, but nutrient inputs don’t have to be one of them. Data from broad-spectrum soil analysis can guide prescription nutrition applications and ensure new crops receive the right balance of nutrients from the start.

As part of the Whole Farm Plan, farmers in Scotland are required to complete two out of five on-farm assessments by May 2025 to receive support payments. Soil analysis is one of the options, and Julia encourages farmers to go beyond the basic test. “While only major nutrients, soil pH, and carbon are required, a broad-spectrum soil analysis offers insights into a much wider range of nutrients, which can inform a comprehensive soil nutrition plan.”

Julia added: “Understanding primary, secondary, and micronutrient levels through broad-spectrum analysis helps farmers tailor nutrition plans and maximise their investment. To support farmers completing the Whole Farm Plan, government grants are still available under ‘Preparing for Sustainable Farming’ for carbon audits and soil analysis.”

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Soil sampling is increasingly importantSoil sampling is increasingly important

Nutrient Replacement for Future Crops

Primary nutrients such as phosphate and potash are critical to early plant development and protein formation, and incorporating straw into the soil helps maintain nutrient availability for the next crop.

Phosphate is essential for crop establishment, particularly for root development. To avoid phosphate lock-up, it’s important to use a protected source like Origin Enhanced Phosphate (OEP), which offers an immediate and sustained supply of nutrients.

Julia noted: “Farmers who have baled straw should apply phosphate at drilling to ensure levels are replenished and crops get off to a strong start. Soil sampling can reveal deficiencies, and balanced nutrition plans can be developed to account for nutrient losses through baling.

“OEP applied at drilling will help restore depleted phosphate levels and support crop establishment. The fertiliser coating prevents the lock-up associated with standard phosphate by an additional 15%. There is clear evidence showing how vital phosphate is for establishment.” Julia concludes: “By ensuring more of what is applied is available to the plant through a protected source, crops can develop deeper, stronger root systems, supporting both growth and yield potential.”