Search OSU Extension

Soil acidity, expressed by low soil pH, causes reduced crop growth and significant economic loss. It is the most commonly overlooked and poorly understood yield-limiting factor in western Oregon and a developing concern in eastern Oregon. This publication describes the concept of soil acidity and the limitations it causes for crop production.

Dan Sullivan, Andy Hulting, Nicole Anderson | Jul 2013 | OSU Extension Catalog

This publication describes the soil tests commonly used in evaluating salt-affected soils in the western United States and gives general guidelines for test interpretation. It will help readers: (1) understand how sodium, calcium, and magnesium affect soil structure; (2) request appropriate soil analyses from commercial laboratories; (3) interpret soil test data; (4) choose appropriate ...

Dan Sullivan | Nov 2007 | OSU Extension Catalog

This publication is part of the Living on the Land series. It provides concise information on to ensure you have healthy, productive soil. Topics include cover crops and role that bacteria, fungi, nematodes and worms play in the formation and overall health of your soil. Use the button below to download this publication as a PDF. Listen to the Living on the Land podcast...

Brian Tuck | Oct 2015 | OSU Extension Catalog

This publication is a reference guide for forest soils productivity and management. Main topics include (1) understanding and managing risk, (2) soil characteristics that affect productivity, (3) soil survey information for forestland managers/management of soil erosion, (4) managing mass wasting risk, (5) managing soil disturbance, and (6) maintaining adequate nutrient supply.

Sam Angima | Apr 2011 | OSU Extension Catalog

Explains the relationship between high soil pH and nutrient deficiencies in crop plants. Color photos illustrate symptoms of pH-induced nutrient deficiency. Explains the causes of high soil pH and presents step-by-step instructions for lowering pH.

Don Wysocki | Sep 2007 | OSU Extension Catalog

Focuses on how to design a soil nutrient monitoring strategy using management units or zones for soil testing and nutrient application. This approach is designed to provide better information to make nutrient management decisions at a reasonable cost. Using a management unit approach, a grower can vary the amount and type of nutrient applications within a field. Two examples of...

Don Wysocki, Larry Lutcher, Mary Corp | Nov 2006 | OSU Extension Catalog

Describes the use of postharvest soil nitrate testing as a tool for assessing nitrogen management in manured cropping systems west of the Cascades. The first section gives general information on the test and is designed for use by growers and dairy operators. The focus is on how to use the test to improve nutrient management. The second section is designed primarily for ...

Dan Sullivan | May 2003 | OSU Extension Catalog

This publication describes how to estimate lime application rate and lists criteria for choosing liming materials (source), lime application method (placement), and how often to apply lime (frequency).

Dan Sullivan, Gene Pirelli, Nicole Anderson | May 2013 | OSU Extension Catalog

Explains the relationship between high soil pH and nutrient deficiencies in blueberries, rhododendrons, azaleas, and other ornamental crops. Color photos illustrate symptoms of pH-induced nutrient deficiency. Presents step-by-step instructions for lowering soil pH, either before a crop is planted or after establishment.

Feb 2004 | OSU Extension Catalog

Many nutrients and lime are not mobile in the soil. When applied to the soil surface without tillage, these materials remain in the top 2 inches, especially in production systems that lack tillage. If a soil sample is taken at a standard 8-inch depth, the top 1 to 2 inches, which have higher nutrient concentrations, will be mixed with the lower 6 to 7 inches, which ...

Dan Sullivan, Gene Pirelli, Nicole Anderson | Oct 2010 | OSU Extension Catalog