When our soils are out of balance we are unable to utilize fertility inputs to their potential, and the continued application of the wrong products may cause a greater negative effect and continue to drive the soil even further out of balance.

Common problems:

• Soil hardness and compaction
• Poor water penetration with high evaporation
• Low organic matter
• Weak plants with high stress
• Increased plant disease and insect pressure

In addition, there are other negative aspects that we may notice from time to time like "cutting out early." We eventually come to the question "What is it going to take to correct the problems and stay in business?"

Sustainability is a result of maintaining soil balance. This approach to soil management involves four major areas

• Nutrient Balance
• Organic Matter
• Biological Activity
• Mineralization

The Net result of a sustainable approach to soil management is more dollars in your pockets through higher productivity and improved quality.

Physical changes to look for:

• Reduction in soil compaction
• Better water utilization, including root zone retention
• Reduced evaporation
• Healthier, more vigorous plants
• Leaching and complexion salts
• Better disease resistance with less insect pressure
• Better nutrient utilization
• Improved soil oxygenation and sustained microbial life in soils