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Farm Image

Precise Nutrition (Zone sampling)

Farm Image offer a 2 stage soil sampling system, that we call Precise Nutrition.

Stage 1

Soil characteristics are mapped using a soil electro-conductivity (EC) scanner. The EC scanning coulters are pulled behind a vehicle over the surface of the field. The data collected is used to improve soil sampling strategy.

The scanner is a quick, inexpensive, repeatable and objective way to map soil variability compared to a soil scientist walking every inch of your field. EC mapping is a one off investment for longer term, more accurate mapping.

Cultivations

Stage 2

The EC data is analysed by a qualified soil technician who then zones the field and designs a tailored soil sampling plan to pick up in-field nutritional variability more accurately. A minimum of 16 sub-samples are collected by hand across each management zone on the sampling plan.

As standard we analyse phosphorous, potassium, magnesium and pH (macro-nutrients). We can also analyse organic matter, texture and micro-nutrients such as copper.

Farm Image can also offer Modified Grids to produce an even more intensive sampling strategy or Grid Sampling for a different approach to mapping soil nutrients.

     Cultivations

We provide fertiliser recommendations based on crop and management information gained from you. We can generate 100% UK GPS compatible variable rate application files for your fertiliser spreader. These can be sent to you directly or downloaded at any time of day or night from our web portal.

The data can be used to make informed fertiliser recommendations for use with a variable rate or conventional fertiliser spreader.


EC Zone data can also be used for decisions on:

  • Variable seed rates
  • Varietal planting plans
  • Compaction risk assessments
  • Variable rate Nitrogen
  • Pest, weed, and disease risks
  • Financial yield potential
  • Variable cultivation plans


Benefits of Zone Sampling

  • Identify soil variation first
  • Reduced chance of non-representative sample results
  • More accurate pH management
  • Increased productivity
  • Targeted crop inputs
  • Opportunity to combine with other GIS layers