25 August 2022
Soil fertility declining on Irish dairy farms
In 2021 Teagasc analysed 30,082 grassland soil samples, of which 21,049 were taken on dairy farms. We see that soil fertility declined on dairy farms for the second consecutive year. Here is a summary of the main changes for soil pH, phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in 2021 on dairy farms
In 2021 Teagasc analysed a total 33,876 soil samples comprising of dairy, drystock and tillage enterprises. Overall soil samples number increased by 13% in 2021.
There was 30,082 grassland soil samples, of which 21,049 were taken on dairy farms. This represents an increase of 11% compared to 2020
Summary of soil pH, P and K for Dairy Farms in 2021
The following is a summary of the main changes for soil pH, phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in 2021 on dairy farms.
16% of soils have optimum pH, P & K (3 % decrease)
53% of soils with a soil pH >6.2 (10% decrease)
55% of soils at P index 1 & 2 (4% Increase)
48% of soils at K Index 1 & 2 (no change)
2021 shows that soil fertility declined on dairy farms for the second consecutive year. This is mainly driven by a decrease in soil pH and P levels. Soil K levels have remained stable in 2021.
This trend could be the result of a new soil sampling cycle on farms plus the drive to maximise grass production on specific areas of the farm (grazing block).
What you can do
With escalated fertilisers prices for the coming season we should aim to at least maintain soil fertility levels and halt this emerging decline.
Soil fertility is a key driver of N efficiency on farms and reducing emissions from agricultural soils.
Now is a good time to take fresh soil samples especially on farms that applied less P and K fertiliser in 2021 and assess its impact on farm soil fertility levels. Low cost technologies such as applying lime and optimising soil pH is a must and needs to be addressed over the coming weeks and months as it is key to driving N use efficiency on farm especially with record high N costs currently.
Take action now!
Assess field P & K balances
Take fresh soil samples
Apply lime over the coming weeks
Update your farm fertiliser plan
Plan fertiliser requirements for 2023
Click here to read full soil fertility report
Find out more about Soil & Soil Fertility
If you have further queries you can talk to your Teagasc dairy advisor. Find your local Teagasc office here