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Soil Fertility

All Soil Fertility Content

Producer holding soil in cupped hands over a bare field in early spring.

Carbon to Nitrogen Ratio of Healthy Soils

The ratio of carbon to nitrogen in the soil is essential for soil biochemical functioning. Learn some expert tips on managing soil to create an ideal ratio of these critical elements.

Vast, rolling agricultural landscape with a variety of plant life.

The Nitrogen Biochemical Cycle in Soil

Nitrogen is an essential element for plant growth and is contained in many forms in the soil. Soil microbiology is essential for transforming nitrogen into different forms in the soil.

Spring wheat growing in a no-till field. Courtesy: USDA NRCS South Dakota, (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Chloride Fertilizers May Be Beneficial in Spring Wheat Production

Chloride, the ionic form of chlorine, although not considered an essential nutrient, has long been observed to be highly beneficial to field crops. Chloride is known to play an essential role in plant development and osmoregulation.

Farmer standing in a no-till field.

Farming Practice Comparisons in South Dakota: A case study across the fence and implications for the future

This extension study intends to provide some new insights on the financial and carbon storage comparisons between neighboring farms using conventional farming versus conservation practices (mainly no-till and cover crops).

Soil scientist conducting an in-field soil test.

Soil Carbon Cycle and Laboratory Measurements of Carbon Related to Soil Health

Carbon is one the most-important elements in agricultural soils. Take in-depth look at how carbon is understood, measured, and managed to benefit soil health in agricultural production.

a stretching field of green corn plants

Comparing Yield Goal and Maximum Return to Nitrogen Prediction Methods for Determining Corn Economic Optimal Nitrogen Rates

Fact sheet evaluating the accuracy of different corn nitrogen recommendation approaches with their advantages and disadvantages.

A soil coring device that has been pounded into ground. Next to it are trimmed samples in rings used to measure soil bulk density.

Bulk Density is an Indicator of Soil Health

Bulk density is a commonly measured soil property that can indicate how compacted a soil is and can be used to calculate the percent pore space in the soil.

Tractor pulling manure a spreader through a harvested crop field.

Using Feedlot Manure to Reduce Crop Production Costs

Livestock waste can be a valuable source of crop nutrients when correctly managed. Taking a strategic approach to feedlot manure application can increase the value of manure as part of your overall system.

Bare field with visible salt buildup on soil surface.

SDSU Extension hosting Every Acre Counts Bus Tour on Aug. 9

July 26, 2023

South Dakota State University Extension will host an Aug. 9 bus tour highlighting award-winning precision agricultural strategies used by farmers to mitigate saline soils while also maximizing productivity and profitability.

Kristine Lang and Rhoda Burrows look at some plants with two men inside a high tunnel

The South Dakota State University Southeast Research Farm to host Field Day on July 11

June 30, 2023

The South Dakota State University Southeast Research Farm Field Day will be held on July 11 near Beresford, South Dakota.