NRM’s annual soil summary report once again highlights the nutrient imbalances across the majority of UK soils.
NRM has been collecting soil analysis data since 1995. This year’s soil summary includes data from soil samples collected between June 2023 and May 2024, covering four different crop categories. This information helps farmers and their advisors understand current nutrient status across the UK, compare results with other farms using the latest data, plan and implement insightful management decisions, and improve soil health to optimise crop production.
“We gather data from not only arable and grassland soils in the UK but also from areas like viticulture,” says Sajjad Awan, agronomy manager at NRM. “The issue is that we are still seeing deficiencies in the majority of UK soils—and have been for a long time. Soils are not getting any better, and whilst weather conditions do have an impact on nutrient availability and crop yields every year, the fact that imbalances have become the norm is concerning.”
‘The report highlights only one-third of soil samples were at target P index 2. The proportion of samples greater than the target index for phosphorus in arable fields is much higher this year (42%), whilst 25% of samples were below average. “This is an issue, as too high soil P levels can reduce the availability of nutrients like zinc and iron, which impacts plant development. Low P levels also limit plant growth by restricting root development and energy transfer processes. Testing is the only way to get the information required to start taking steps towards evening out these issues and imbalances,” adds Sajjad.
To help optimise soil nutrient levels, Sajjad recommends testing more regularly. This will give growers and advisors the data they need to start making informed, insightful changes into their management programmes and improve crop production.
“Many farmers are either not testing their soils, not testing frequently enough, or not fully committing to making changes based on their results,’ Sajjad continues. ‘Regular soil testing is the foundation of optimal crop production, as it enables growers and advisors to fine-tune nutrient management plans, ensuring crops receive the necessary nutrients for growth. Consistent testing also allows farmers to track progress year after year, leading to measurable improvements in both productivity and profitability over time. We recommend testing all your fields once every four years, or testing a quarter of your fields annually on a rotation.”
NRM’s standard soil package provides soil indices based on RB209 guidance and an analysis of plant-available phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and soil pH. When combined with additional tests—such as soil organic matter, soil carbon, and soil mineral nitrogen—it gives farmers a comprehensive understanding of their soil health. This holistic view enables more informed decisions each season, helping to optimise crop production and improve yields.
“A key part of our soil summary is to help farmers see how they measure up against other farms, both regionally and across the UK,” notes Sajjad. “Farmers can also drill down to region and then a county to localise their nutrient summary, allowing them to benchmark with soil types and conditions that match their own.
“By analysing large-scale data like this it fosters knowledge exchange within the agricultural industry. This means we can all understand our position and take steps to improve together, not just to boost crop production but to make sure we do so sustainably. Soil analysis is vital, not just for refining management practices to increase yields, but also in encouraging growers to adopt sustainable practices that protect our environment. For example, high P levels can lead to runoff into streams, causing algal blooms and reduced water quality.”
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