Now is the time to take soil test samples for 2007 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 2007.

A complete soil test report shows the amount of lime, fertilizer and magnesium that is needed to produce the intended crop.

Guessing on the amount of lime and kind of fertilizer to use can increase the cost of planting and reduce production at the same time.

Penn State University's complete soil test kits cost $9 each and are available at the Butler County Farm Service Agency and Extension Service offices.

If purchasing soil test kits at the county FSA office, payment must be made by check or money order payable to Extension Special Account. Directions for taking good soil samples are part of the information contained in the soil test kit.

Cover crops

Winter cover crops are often an overlooked nutrient management tool that can provide numerous benefits. A cover crop seeded now 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 season. 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.