NRM experts advised growers, advisors, students, and other attendees of CropTec on how to utilise insightful analysis results to improve soil health and enhance crop production. Topics of interest included the importance of organic matter analysis, insight into soil pH and liming, a deeper understanding of soil biology, and executing effective nitrogen management plans for the forthcoming season.
‘Identifying long-term soil chemical changes and understanding how composition impacts crop yield and quality is key to optimising both yield and profitability,’ said Sajjad Awan, Soil and Crop Nutrition Agronomist at NRM. ‘Our customers and other attendees at CropTec were really interested in learning more about the expert insight we provide alongside our results to help growers gain this understanding and ultimately meet their goals. A big topic this year was nitrogen analysis, as now’s the time to think about nitrogen management for the upcoming season. By testing soils after winter and taking our guidance into consideration, farmers can save money by avoiding applying expensive fertiliser where it’s not required whilst still ensuring crops receive all they need to thrive.
‘It was also interesting to speak to groups of college and university students to discuss how NRM is helping the industry meet current environmental and crop production challenges,’ Sajjad continued. ‘We are focussed on supporting a safer, healthier planet through sustainable food production without compromising on productivity. As such, we will give you advice on which packages you require to help you meet your goals and safeguard our soils for the future.’
CropTec, held in Kenilworth Warwickshire, was Sophie Cath’s first event since joining NRM, giving customers the opportunity to meet the business’ new Senior Business Development Manager. Also in attendance alongside Sophie and Sajjad were Sean Stevenson, Cawood Agriculture’s Commercial Director, and Gina Graham, NRM’s Account Manager.
‘It was great to go to CropTec as part of NRM this year,’ said Sophie. ‘I really enjoyed catching up with current customers and discussing the importance of organic matter analysis. This analysis is important not just to help farmers be eligible for environmental initiatives like the Sustainable Farming Incentive, but also for agronomic purposes.’
NRM analyses over half a million soil samples across all farm types every year. Our various analysis services, including CarbonCheck for soil carbon analysis, CropCheck for plant tissue testing, GrainCheck for grain analysis, and N-Check for soil nitrogen analysis, help customers check they are on course throughout the season. These tools help farmers increase performance and profitability whilst committing to sustainable, resilient practices to help them stay productive.
For more information on our analysis services, contact us.
Dr Sajjad Awan, Soil and Crop Nutrition Agronomist at NRM, spoke to agronomists at Frontier Agriculture on the role of expert soil analysis and regenerative agriculture practices in improving farm management for their clients. By shedding light on the significance of soil testing and adopting sustainable practices, Sajjad provided key insights into how to improve soil health and reduce carbon footprints.
‘Measuring the practical efforts of growers on a regular basis will help advisors give more insightful advice to their clients,’ said Sajjad. ‘This will help growers understand the impact of their farm management practices to see what went well and what needs to change next season for year-on-year improvement. Soil pH is particularly important, as it affects the soil’s physical, chemical, and biological processes, which are all important for optimal soil health. However, key findings from NRM’s soil pH data of more than half a million samples in the last few years show that most soils in the UK are either below or above optimal pH levels.
‘To combat this, not only do we need to encourage growers to undertake regular soil sampling, but to also adopt sustainable agricultural practices. This will help enhance soil health, reduce carbon footprints, and improve grassland management.’
Sajjad spoke at Frontier Agriculture on Tuesday 14th November. He regularly presents to customers and advisors at events throughout the season, sharing knowledge with the industry to help growers support and optimise sustainable food production.
‘This exchange of knowledge and experience is incredibly important so that we can all work together and build a more successful agricultural industry overall,’ continued Sajjad. ‘At NRM, we are focused on providing even more expert interpretation and robust results to our customers. So, speaking on the importance of analysis to such a large group of advisors will in turn help their clients get the results they need to succeed. I felt very privileged to hear all the different opinions of my fellow experts and to provide expertise on such a useful topic.’
For more information on our analysis services, contact us.