If soil tests indicate low available nutrients, what action is recommended?

• A. Ignore test results and continue with standard rates.
• B. Delay fertilization for a growing season.
• C. Apply only irrigation.
• D. Adjust fertilizer applications to replenish soluble nutrient pools.

Answer: (D)

When soil tests show low available nutrients, you need to replenish the soluble nutrient pools that plants can take up. The test results tell you what nutrients are lacking and by how much, so the action is to adjust your fertilizer program to supply those nutrients at the right amounts and forms for the crop and soil.

That means selecting appropriate fertilizer materials and applying them at rates and timing that raise soil nutrient levels into the target range, guided by the test results and crop needs. It can involve split applications, choosing easily available forms, and placing nutrients where roots can access them. Don’t forget to consider factors like soil pH, moisture, and the soil’s capacity to hold nutrients, since these affect availability. After applying nutrients, follow up with soil and, if needed, tissue testing to confirm that levels have improved and to tune future applications.

Other options don’t address the deficiency properly: ignoring the test results won’t raise nutrient levels; delaying fertilization deprives the crop of needed nutrients during growth; and applying only irrigation doesn’t add missing nutrients.