Now is the time to take soil test samples for 2011 farming operations.

Soil conditions in the fall are ideal for taking samples. Soil sample results will be back in time to enable farmers to plan fertilizer purchases needed for crop production in the next year.

A complete soil test report shows the amount of lime, fertilizer and magnesium needed to produce the intended crop. Guessing on the amount of lime and kind of fertilizer can increase the cost of planting and reduce production.

Complete soil test kits from Penn State University cost $9 and are available at county farm service agencies and at Penn State Extension offices.

Remember, the results are only as good as the sample you send to the lab.

Take several plugs about 8 inches deep, which is plow depth, from each field you want to sample. Plugs should come from all areas of the field and represent soil typical of the field. Mix them thoroughly in a clean plastic bucket or heavy plastic bag so you have a good homogenized sample typical of the soil from across the field. Air dry half a pint of this soil overnight and mail to the lab. (The address is on the plastic envelope of the test kit.) Directions for taking good soil samples also are contained in the test kits.

Consider benefits of winter cover crops

Winter cover crops are often an overlooked nutrient management tool that can provide numerous benefits.

A cover crop could provide forage next spring, or, if allowed to mature, could provide grain.

Either way, a cover crop could be used to supplement feed supplies.

Also, many farmers need to empty their manure storage units during the fall. This means these crop nutrients are applied to cropland at a time of year when they are not needed by a growing crop. Winter cover crops can take advantage of these nutrients.

If you are applying manure to cropland this fall, plan on planting a small grain cover crop such as rye. The rye will take up the available nitrogen and hold it in the plant, preventing its loss to the water supply.

Luke Fritz is executive director of the Butler County arm Service Agency.