AGRONOMY AND SOILS DEPARTMENTAL SERIES ND. 178
MAY 1994
ALABAMA AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION
LOWELL T. FROBISH, DIRECTOR
AUBURN UNIVERSITY
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, ALABAMA 
Ad

CONTENTS
Page
Introduction..................................................... 
5
Soil Testing Process0...................................................6
Elements Required for 
Growing Plants...................................8
Macronutrients...... 
...............................
9
Primary Nutrients .................................................... 
9
Secondary Nutrients .................................................
11
Micronutrients ..................................................
12
Soil Testing Service 
...............................
15
Definitions of Soil-Test Ratings 
Used for P and K..........................18
Descriptions of Soil Groups on Which P and K Soil-Test Ratings 
are Based........ 19
Extractable Nutrients in Pounds 
Per Acre ...............................
23
Table Versus Formulas............................................23
Lime Recommendations...........................................24
Lowering Soil pH................................................ 
26
Magnes' 4m Recommendations 
........................................
26
Soil Organic Matter..............................................28
Fertilizer Recommendation 
........................................... 
29
Yield Potential (Yield 
Goal)........................................30
Interpreting Report of Soil 
Tests (sample copy)...........................31
Report on Soil Tests (sample 
copy)............................ 
32
Recommendations for Field 
Crops, Forage Crops, and 
Pastures..................33
Recommendations for Turfgrass, 
Lawns, Golf Courses, Athletic 
Fields, and Roadsides . 45
Recommendations for Gardens and Commercial Vegetable Crops................51
Recommendations for Shrubs 
and Flowers................................ 
57
Recommendations for Fruits 
and Nuts...................................61
Research ......... 
...............................................
67
Equations .......................................................... 
68
Information contained herein is available to all persons
without regard to race, color, sex, or national origin.

SOL "TEST FERThIZER RECOMMENDATIONS
FOR ALABAMA CROPS
J.F. Adams, C.C. Mitchell, and H. Bryant'
EqTRODUCTION
Mft o iis in Alabama must be fertilized for optimum production. 
Unfertilized soils
are naturally low in plant nutrients because the parent materials from which 
they were formed
were low in phosphorus (P), and many were low or medium in potassium (K). 
In addition,
Alabama's relatively high temperatures plus rainfall have caused release, leaching, and runoff
of nutrients from fields, especially where they have been cropped 
continuously and the
surface has been allowed to erode. Likewise, the nitrogen (N) supplying 
capacity of soils is
dependent on the organic matter content which is low in Alabama soils because 
of rapid
decomposition under prevailing environmental conditions. Therefore, unless these 
major
nutrients have been built up in soils by past fertilization and management 
practices, soils will
need fertilizer for sustainable production.
Most Alabama soils have been in continuous production for more than 150 
years.
Some have been fertilized regularly throughout that period. The addition of 
nutrients to soils
and crops where they are not needed and cannot be utilized is a waste of resources 
and could
also be environmentally unsound.
Nutrient needs were originally determined by thousands of simple 
fertilizer
experiments conducted on farms throughout the state. Prior to the establishment 
of the
Auburn University' : ". Soil Testing Laboratory in 1953, general fertilizer recommendations were
made by Auburn University for different soil types. These recommendations were based on
'Respectively, Associate Professors and Senior Research Associate of Agronomy and Soils.
5
these cooperative experiments and other more detailed experiments conducted on substations
and experiment fields located on the major soils throughout the state.
This system is no longer adequate because soils have been altered by past
management. Properly managed soils have become more productive during the past 40 years
as fertilizer use has increased. Some nutrients may have been depleted while others have
been built up in soils, depending on amounts supplied in fertilizers and manures and amounts
removed in harvested crops and forages. General fertilizer reco rmendations based on soil
type are no longer practical because past management practices now have more influence on
soil fertility than does soil type. Soils separated only by a fence may differ more in fertility
than the original unfertilized soils located in the different regions of the state.
Soil tests have been developed to determine the fertility level of individual soils. This
has required much field and laboratory research at many locations over the years to calibrate
test results with response to fertilizers in the field. Reliable soil tests based on such research
are now the only practical basis for determining the needs of specific crops on the many soil
situations now existing in Alabama.
SOIL TESTING PROCESS
Soil testing involves more than just a chemical analysis. For the results to be
meaningful to a grower, four steps must receive careful attention.
Step 1 - Taking a good sample
Recommendations based on a soil test can be no better than the soil sample from
which they are made. Growers are urged to take great care to be sure that the sample
submitted represents as accurately as possible the area from which it is taken. Generally a
sample should be a composite of subsamples taken from 10 to 20 spots in the area. Samples
from plowed fields should be taken to plow 
depth, while those from sod or areas not to 
be
plowed should be taken to a depth of two to three inches.
Step 2 - Analyzing the sample
This is the:chemical extraction and testing procedure used by the laboratory. Although
laboratories may use different extraction and analysis 
techniques, the procedures used must
be correlated to plant growth and nutrient uptake in Alabama. In 
addition, quality control by
the staff is essential for reliable and accurate results. The Auburn University 
Soil Testing
Laboratory uses procedures recommended and published by 
the Southern Extension and
Research Activity on Soil Testing and Plant Analysis Information 
Exchange Group (SERA-
IEG-6).
Step 3 - Interpreting the analysis
The analytical results must be related to plant growth or yield. Extensive 
soil test
calibration research on the crops and soils of Alabama has been 
conducted and will continue.
For each nutrient, crop, and soil, a good calibration must show 
that plant growth, yield, or
nutrient uptake increases as the level of an extractable nutrient 
increases up to a point where
further increases in soil test levels fail to show significant or economical increases 
of plant
growth or yield.
Step 4 - Usinp the results
When growers receive a soil test report and appropriate recommendations, 
they must
make certain practical decisions that may result in a modification of the given
recomipendation. Some of these decisions may involve the following:
1. Using readily available fertilizers or ordering custom blended fertilizer.
2. Applying the same fertilizer grade to all fields or groups of fields, or ordering
separate fertilizers for each field (or portion of a field) sampled.
3.. Using premium fertilizers that contain secondary nutrients and micronutrients
or applying only those micronutrients specifically recommended for the crop.
4. Splitting fertilizer and/or lime applications.
5. Using starter fertilizers and foliar fertilizers to supplement recommendations.
6. Modifying nitrogen recommendations based upon comments in the report.
7. Applying fertilizers with other materials, such as herbicides.
8. Modifying recommendations based upon current economic conditions.
These and many other considerations affect how the soil test results are used, and is a
decision the grower or crop advisor must make.
Auburn University's soil testing program is a joint program of the Alabama
Cooperative Extension Service and the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station. The
Cooperative Extension Service has primary responsibility for education on soil testing and
distribution of supplies. The Agricultural Experiment Station conducts soil test calibration
resear h and operates the Soil Testing Laboratory.
ELM S REQUIRED FOR GROWING PLANTS
Only 16 elements are known to be required for plant growth. These nutrient
elements can be divided into four groups:
Carbon (C) Macronutrients Boron (B)
Hydrogen (H) carbon dioxide Zinc (Zn)
Oxygen (0) and water Manganese (Mn) Micronutrients
Copper (Cu) from the soil
Molybdenum (Mo)
Nitrogen (N) ' /Primary Iron (Fe)
PhosphorUs (P) -- nutrients from Chloride (Cl)
Potassium (K) _.! the soil
Calcium (Ca) Secondary
Magnesium Mg) nutrients from
Sulfur (S )..... the soil
These nutrient elements are discussed briefly to provide background for a better
understanding of the information on fertilization and plant nutrition that follows.
Macronutrients
The nutrient elements C, H, and O are obtained by plants from air (CO,) and water
(H20) in sufficient amounts to support maximum growth. There is no need for concern about
supplying these elements in fertilizers.
Primary Nutrients
The elements N, P, and K constitute about 3 to 5% of the dry weight of most plants
and arethe most frequently deficient nutrients in Alabama soils. Accordingly, these are the
nutrients in fertilizers most frequently and abundantly applied.
Nitrogen is the nutrient that is most frequently limiting crop production and is needed
in greatest quantities for most nonlegume crops. Soil tests are not reliable for determining
the nitrogen supplying capacity of individual soils in the Southeast. There are several reasons
for this. First, nitrogen is stored in the soil's organic matter. The rate of N release for crop
use is affected by organic matter content, temperature, moisture, length of growing season,
and other factors that make it impractical to predict the amount of N that will be supplied
by the soil for a growing crop. Second, Alabama soils are low in organic matter and do not
vary much in their capacity to supply nitrogen. Therefore, nitrogen recommendations are
based primarily on the crop to be grown.
The most economical rates of application have been determined in numerous field
experiments. The amounts recommended should be adjusted by growers based on experience
with previously used rates. Nitrogen supply is the dominant fertility factor in determining rate
and amount of growth of most crops. Legume crops get most of the N required for their
growth from the air, which contains about 80% N.
Phosphorus content of practically all Alabama soils originally was low. Fertilizers used
in the early days of fertilization were much higher in P than in N or K Fortunately, P does
not leach through soils but forms compounds with other elements in the soil and is released
slowly. However, P is lost from fields where the surface soil is allowed to erode. Also,
phosphorus in the plow layer may become diluted when turning the land deeper than normal.
Crops require much smaller quantities of P than of N and K. Usually plants contain
about 0.2 to 0.3% P. Therefore, under continuous fertilization, soil content of P 
has
increased on many soils to High, Very High, and Extremely High levels. About 50% of all
samples received by the Soil Testing Laboratory in recent years have been High in 
P, and
crops grown on those soils would not be expected to respond to P applications. Experiments
at several substEtions and experiment fields have shown that where P has been built 
up to
High or Very High levels, lack of P application will not reduce yield of most crops for up to
40 years or more. Therefore, on soil test reports for field and forage crops, none 
is
recommended when P is in the High range; but growers should sample 
each year where none
is applied to avoid yield losses should soil P drop back into the 
Medium range where some
response could be anticipated.
Potassium. As yields have been increased by higher N and P fertilization, 
the need
for K on some soils has increased. Most of the sandy soils of Alabama 
are low to medium
in K, while the clays and clay loams are more likely to be high. Response 
to K has been
determined in numerous experiments throughout the state. Excessive use of K may cause Mg
deficiency, especially on sandy soils. Recent residual studies have shown that K may
accumulate in most soils where recommended rates are applied. When soil tests indicate that
10
this accumulation has reached the High level, growers may reduce or cease applications until
the soil level drops back into the Medium range.
Secondary Nutrients
The elements calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur(S) are classified as secondary
nutrients for plant nutrition. Some Alabama soils and crops should be supplied with these
nutrients.
Calcium is supplied in both calcitic and dolomitic lime. Where soil pH is maintained
in the proper range, calcium deficiency is not likely to occur. Peanuts, tomatoes, and peppers
are the only crops that have been found to suffer from lack of calcium in Alabama fields.
This deficiency may result in unfilled pods (pops) in peanuts and blossom end rot in tomatoes
and peppers. All samples are analyzed for calcium in the Soil Testing Laboratory. When the
tests indicate that deficiencies may occur on these crops, gypsum may be recommended if lime
is not needed.
Magnesium (Mg) content of all soil samples is also determined. Some sandy soils in
Alabama are deficient in Mg and these soils are usually low in pH. The most practical way
to prevent Mg deficiency is by using dolomitic lime when soil tests indicate that Mg is Low.
On soils where Mg is not found to be deficient, calcitic or dolomitic lime is satisfactory.
Sulfur (S) deficiency has increased as high analysis fertilizers made from ammonium
phosphates have replaced fertilizers made from superphosphate, which contains about 12%
S. Sulfur added to soils in rain has decreased in areas where effluent from industrial plants
has been scrubbed to reduce air pollution.
Sandy soils of the coastal plains and sandstone plateaus are most likely to be deficient
in 5, because this element may be leached from sandy surface soils. There is no practical soil
11
test procedure to use in predicting S deficiency. Like N, it is found mostly in organic matter
in sandy topsoils. It frequently accumulates in the subsoil and plants may recover from the
deficiency when roots reach the subsoil.
All crops should receive an average of about 10 pounds of S per acre per year,
applied in fertilizer or in pesticide applications. Crops most likely to respond to S fertilization
on sandy soils are wheat, corn, cotton, and vegetable crops. Farmers should always check
when buying mixed fertilizer to be certain that it contains enough S to supply this amount.
Micronutrients
Although the seven micronutrients are as important in plant nutrition as the primary
and secondary nutrients, they are needed in much smaller quantities, and most Alabama soils
contain adequate amounts for most crops. The Agricultural Experiment Station has
conducted field, greenhouse, and laboratory research continuously since about 1930 on the
response of crops to micronutrient elements. Field 
experiments with boron, zinc, manganese,
copper, iron, and molybdenum have been 
conducted with various crops on the substations,
experiment fields, and on farmers' fields throughout the state. Whereas some crops may use
between 20 and 200 pounds per acre each of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, and S, they use less than one
pound per acre of the micronutrients. Most Alabama soils have an abundance of minerals
containing micronutrients. In some cases, over application of micronutrients, such as Zn, Cu,
and B could lead to a toxicity. Metals, such as Zn and Cu, build up in the soil. These also
may be found in certain pesticides. Soil test for Zn and Cu may be more valuable for
avoiding toxic buildup than for predicting deficiencies.
Research with field and forage crops has shown that most deficiencies of
micronutrients are limited to boron and zinc for a few crops on certain soils. The most
12
practical recommendation for these nutrients is to apply them to specific crops 
in all cases or
on soils where they tend to be low. This eliminates the need for soil tests that are, in most
cases, expensive and not always dependable enough to serve as a basis for recommendations.
Although some soil testing laboratories determine micronutrient levels in 
the soil and make
specific recommendations, their interpretations are not based on research for Alabama 
soils.
A chemical analysis or soil test is of little or no value unless calibrated against crop
responses to applications of the nutrient in question. Such information can only be obtained
from fertility experiments conducted under a wide range of soil and climatic conditions. The
following is a brief description of the Auburn Soil Testing Laboratory's recommendations for
the micronutrient elements.
Boron (B) is recommended for cotton, peanuts, clovers grown for seed, alfalfa,
cauliflower, broccoli, root crops, apples, pears, and plums. Analysis for B is expensive and
the cost of applying recommended rates is quite low; therefore, recommendations based on
needs of specific crops are more practical than routine soil analyses.
Zinc (Zn) is recommended for corn on sandy soils where the pH is above 6.0 or for
the first year after applying lime. It also is recommended for peaches, pecans, apples, and
pears. These are the only crops that have responded to Zn on Alabama soils. Zinc
deficiency in corn seedlings is likely to occur in cool, wet seasons. Corn plants usually recover
when warm weather arrives, but yield may be decreased by the early deficiency. Routine
analysis for Zn is not necessary in most cases, but soil and plant analysis for Zn may be
helpful in diagnosing.suspected cases of deficiency or toxicity. Simultaneous applications of
excessive amounts of both lime and phosphorus can induce Zn deficiency on almost any crop.
Soil tests showing pH values above 7.0 along with Very High or Extremely High P indicate
a probability that Zn deficiency may occur on some soils.
13
Zinc toxicities could occur on sensitive crops, such 
as peanuts, where excessive Zn
application have caused high soil Zn levels (more 
than 10 mg/kg extractable Zn) on sandy
soils. Maintaining a soil pH above 6.0 may help to reduce 
Zn toxicity symptoms.
Broiler litter, certain pesticides, and some industrial 
by-products used as soil
amendments may contain high concentrations 
of Zn.
Iron (Fe) is a common deficiency for only a few crops (e.g. 
soybeans) on the high pH
soils of the Black Belt and for some specialty plants 
(e.g. azaleas, centipedegrass, and
blueberries) where lime or phosphorus is excessive. 
This deficiency cannot be corrected by
application of Fe to the soil, but can be corrected 
on ornamental and fruit crops by spraying
with a dilute iron solution. Soil analysis for 
Fe is worthless. Some soybean varieties are 
less
susceptible than others to Fe deficiency. Varieties 
rated for susceptibility to Fe deficiency can
be found in soybean variety reports.
Molybdenum (Mo) application to soybeans 
as a foliar or seed treatment at planting
is recommended for all soils of North Alabama and 
for Black Belt soils. Deficiency of Mo on
soybeans on acid soils can usually be 
prevented by liming. Because Mo is 
needed in such
small quantities, soil testing 
is not recommended.
Manganese (Mn) is high in almost 
all Alabama soils and is not recommended 
for any
crop. Soybeans grown on sands with 
poor internal drainage, high organic 
content, and a pH
above 6.0 may show Mn deficiency. 
Symptoms of cyst nematode damage 
are very similar to
those for Mn deficiency on soybeans.
Copper (Cu) and Chlorine (Cl) have 
not been found to be deficient for any 
crop on
Alabama soils. There is no need to 
supply these elements in fertilizers 
in Alabama. Excessive
Cu may be applied to soil in broiler 
litter and certain Cu-containing pesticides.
14
Present Policy on Micronutrients
Due to the previously described points, the laboratory does not analyze soil samples
for S, Mn, Cu, Cl, Fe, or Mo. If and when research shows that analysis for one or more of
these elements is justified, this service will be provided.
Under certain conditions, a soil test for B and Zn may be helpful in diagnosing
problems. Therefore, samples will be analyzed on request for B and for Zn at an extra
charge. Soil test reports may be delayed for several days when these elements are being
analyzed.
SOIL TESTING SERVICE
This publication presents the fertilizer recommendations made by the Auburn
University Soil Testing Laboratory. The information is organized for the computer program
that is used to make recommendations on samples analyzed by this laboratory. Crops are
divided into more than 50 classes, about one-half of which are field and forage crops and one-
half are horticultural or specialty crops. The crops are listed in Table 1 with a summary of
information used in classifying crops based on fertility requirements, and in making
recommendations for each crop. Detailed instructions and recommendations are presented
in individual tables for each crop on pages 33 through 67. These tables contain the following
information:
1. Crop code number and a list of the crops included in this code number.
2. K requirement level number. Crops are divided into three classes based on their
K requirements. These classes are (1) peanuts, (2) soybeans and corn and other grasses; and
(3) cotton, forage legumes, gardens, lawns, shrubs, and other special crops. They are
15
presented in Table 2 along with the pounds per acre of soil test P and K used to rate the
different soil groups from Very Low to Extremely High.
3. N rate. Each crop is assigned a standard, annual N rate based upon research
conducted throughout Alabama. However, comments given with each crop may modify this
rate based upon potential yield, soil, time of application, cropping system, etc.
4. Lime recommendation code number. Crops vary in the amount of acidity they can
tolerate and still make top yields. They are divided into five classes based on the pH ranges
in which they produce best. These classes are presented in Table 5 and on the pages that
provide fertilizer recommendations for each crop.
5. Mg recommendation code number. Crops are divided into three classes based on
their Mg requirements. These Mg recommendations are from Table 8.
Specific comments that go with individual recommendations or crops are listed by
number with the fertilizer recommendations. Comments used with each crop also are
presented with fertilizer recommendations for each crop.
16
Table 1. Crop Classes and Computer Code Numbers Used in Recommendations
Crop K re-
code 
quire- N Lime Mg Page
no. Crop 
ment rate code code no.
level
Field Crops, Forage Crops, and Pastures
01 Perennial summer grass pasture.............................. 2
02 Bermuda hay (improved varieties) ................. 2
03 Perennial winter grass pasture ........................ 2
04 Temporary summer grass pasture and
johnsongrass .......................................................... 2
05 Annual legume with small grain and ryegrass .... 3
06 White clover, arrowleaf clover, red clover...... 3
07 Perennial or late-maturing annual legumes with
summer grass pasture ......................................... 3
08 Clover and winter perennial grass pasture...... 3
09 Annual legume and summer grass pasture .......... 3
10 Cotton .................................................................. 3
13 Corn ...................................................................... 2
15 Corn in rotation before soybeans ........................ 2
16 Irrigated corn, corn, or sorghum silage ................ 2
17 Peanuts ................................................................... 1
19 Annual legumes .................................................... 3
20 Southern peas .................................................... 3
21 Grain sorghum, sweet sorghum, sugarcane, and
sunflower ........,................................................,........ 2
22 Alfalfa .................................................................... 3
23 Sericea .......................................................................... 3
24 Soybeans ...................................................................... 2
25 Small grain-soybean rotation ................................ 2
26 Tobacco ........................................................................ 3
27 Small grain or temporary winter grass pasture .... 2
Lawns, Golf Courses, Athletic Fields, and Roadsides
40 Bermuda, Zoysia, St. Augustine lawn .................... 3
42 Centipede lawn 3.........................
43 Winter lawn................................................................ 3
44 Golf green ........ ...................................................... 3
45 Golf fairway .......................... .... ..... ........... 3
46 Athletic field ............................................................ 3
47 Roadside turf establishment ................................. 3
48 Roadside turf maintenance ..................................... 3
Gardens and Commercial Vegetable Crops
59 Organic vegetable garden ................................. -
60 Home vegetable garden .................................... 3
61 Commercial vegetable crops .............................. .. 3
62 Tomatoes ................................................................. 3
r
I;
I
E
I
1
60 5
100 5
60 1
-60 1
60 1
0 2
0 2
0 2
0 1
90 1
120 1
120 1
180 1
0 1
0 1
30 1
80 1
0 3
0 1
0 1
100 1
60 4
100 1
80 5
40 5
80 5
400 1
120 5
200 5
120 1
80 1
120 1
120 1
120 2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
17
33
33
34
34
35
35
36
36
37
37
38
38
39
40
40
41
41
42
42
43
43
44
44
45
46
47
48
49
49
50
50
51
51
53
53
Continued
Table 1 (Continued). Crop Classes and Computer Code Numbers Used in 
Recommendations
Crop K re-
code quire- N Lime Mg Page
no. Crop ment rate code code 
no.
level
63 Sweet potatoes.........................3 80 1 2 54
64 Irish potatoes........... ............... 3 120 4 3 54
65 Watermelons, cantaloupes, cucumbers, lima
beans, snap bunch beans, squash, and okra .... 3 80 1 2 55
66 Sweetcorn............................ 3 150- 1 2 55
67 Pepper, pimiento........................3 100 2 2 56
Shrubs and Flowers
80 Shrubs and perennial flowers ............... 3 120 1 2 57
81 Azaleas, gardenias, and rhododenrons.........3 120 0 2 58
82 Roses, mums, and annual flowers............3 120 1 2 59
84 Potting soil (84 reports lb./acre P, K, Ca, and
Mg; soluble salts, nitrates, pH) 60
85 Christmas trees...........................2 4 3 60
Fruits and Nuts
89 Strawberries.3 120 1 2 61
90 Peaches..............................2 * 2 2 62
91 Muscadine.grapes.......................2 * 2 2 63
92 Apples and pears........2 * 2 2 63
93 Plums................................2 * 2 2 64
94 Pecans...............................2 * 2 2 65
95 Home orchards.........................3 * 2 2 65
96 Blueberries............................3 * 0 3 66
Research
98 Checks and balances 67
99 Computer reports pounds per acre of soil-test
P, K, Ca, and Mg 67
* Standard N recommendation in pounds per acre. See comments for modifications.
Definitions of Soil-Test Ratings Used for P and K
Results of chemical tests are used to rate the fertility level of soils for each nutrient element
tested. The ratings range from very low to extremely high. They are influenced by the soil and the
nutrient requirements of the crop to be grown. The ratings for P and K are based on the relative
18
yield that may be expected without adding the nutrient and when all other elements are in adequate
supply. Fertilizer recommendations are based on these ratings, see the figure.
Very Low (VL) - Soil will yield less than 50% of its potential. Large applications for soil
building purposes are usually recommended. Some of the fertilizer should be placed in the drill for
row crops.
Low (L) - Soil will yield 50 to 75% of its potential. Some fertilizer should be placed in the
drill for row crops.
Medium (M) - Soil will yield 75 to 100% of its potential. Continued annual applications
should be made in this range. On some sandy soils that 
will not retain much K, it may not be
economical to attempt to build beyond this medium level.
High (H) - Supply of the nutrient is adequate for the crop, and none is recommended for field
and forage crops. Where this recommendation is followed, it is suggested that the area be sampled
each year.
Very High (VH) - Supply of the nutrient is more than double the amount considered
adequate. Application of P or K to soils of this rating is wasteful.
Extremely High (EH) - Supply of the nutrient is more than four times the amount considered
adequate. The level is excessive and further additions
may be detrimental to the crop and may contribute to pollution of ground and surface waters.
Pounds per acre of soil test P, K, Ca, and Mg on which soil-test ratings are based 
for the
different crops and soil groups are presented in tables 2 and 3.
Descriptions of Soil Groups on Which
P and K Soil-Test Ratings are Based
Availability of nutrients in soils to plants is affected by the amount in the so~I, cation
exchange capacity (CEC) of the soil, and other factors. The amount in the soil is determined by the
19
Percent of maximum yield
1001
Extractable plant nutrient in pounds per acre
Relationship between extractable plant nutrient and soil test 
rating.
20
parent material from which the soil is formed; the amount that has been added in fertilizers, liming
materials or organic wastes; the amount of organic matter; and the amount that has been removed
by cropping, erosion, and leaching. The CEC is a measure of the capacity of the soil to retain
nutrients against removal by crops, erosion, or leaching. It is affected by organic matter content and
the amount and type of clay in the soil. Therefore, knowing the CEC of individual soil samples is
important before making fertilizer recommendations. This is determined in the Soil Testing
Laboratory and serves as the basis for classifying soils into four groups.
Soil Group 1. Sandy soils with cation exchange capacities-less than 4.6 cmolc kg
"1 
of soil.
Examples of soils in this group are Dothan, Orangeburg, Alaga, Bama, and Troup.
Soil Group 2. Loamy and clayey soils with cation exchange capacities of 4.6 to 9.0 cmolc kg
-
of soil. Examples of soils in this group are Madison, Lucedale, Allen, Hartsells, Cecil, Pacolet,
Dickson, and Savannah.
Soil Group 3. Clayey soils, from areas other than the Black Belt, with cation exchange
capacities of more than 9 cmolc kg' of soil. Colbert, Decatur, Dewey, Talbott, Boswell, and Iredell
are examples of soils from this group. Garden soils that have had large amounts of organic
amendments 
may also be in 
this group.
Soil Group 4. Acid and calcareous clayey soils of the Black Belt with cation exchange
capacities greater than 9.0 cmol, kg
" 
of soil. These soils require different laboratory procedures for
measuring soil fertility. Examples of soils in this group are Sumter, Oktibbeha, Leeper, and Vaiden.
The group in which a soil is classified may affect the fertility ratings and therefore the P and
K recommendations. Growers sometimes do not understand why samples from individual fields
change groups between samplings. When a soil is near the borderline between groups, (e.g. 4.6 cmolc
kg
"
) it may fall into one soil group this year and the other group the following year. Liming the soil
also may cause it to be shifted from Group 1 to Group 2 or from Group 2 to Group 3. Although
CEC is determined on all samples, it is not recorded on soil test reports. Growers wishing more
information about these relationships on their samples should contact the Soil Testing Laboratory.
21
Table 2. Soil-Test Ratings and Pounds Per 
Acre of Soil-Test P and K for All Soils 
and Crops
Phosphorus Potassium
K req. K req.
level 3 level 2 K req.
cotton, soybeans, level 1
legumes, corn, and Peanuts
Rating Soil-test P gardens, other Soil-test K
(other Peanuts lawns, grasses
crops) Soil 1,2 Soil 3 
Soil 4* and 
Soil 1 Soil 2 Soil 3 Soil 4*
CEC 0-9 CEC>9 CEC>9 shrubs CEC 0-4.6 CEC 4.6-9.0 CEC>9.0 CEC>90
Lb.a, Lb./a. Lb.a. Lb.a Lb.a. Lb.la. Lb/a.
V low V low 0 0 0-3 V low V low V low 0-20 0-30 0-40
V low V low 1-2 1 4-6 V low Low Low 21-22 31-33 41-44 51-56
V low V low 3-4 2 7-9 V low Low Low 23-24 34-36 45-48 57-62
V low Low 5-7 3 10-12 V low Low Low 25-26 37-39 49-52 63-68
V low Low 8-10 4-5 13-15 V low Low Low 27-28 40-42 53-57 69-74
V low Medium 11-12 6-7 16-18 V low Low Medium 29-30 43-45 58-60 75-80
Low Medium 13-19 8-11 19-27 Low Low Medium 31-40 46-60 61-80 81-120
Low High 20-25 12-15 28-36 Low Medium High 41-60 61-90 81-120 121-160
Medium High 26-34 16-21 37-48 Medium Medium High 61-80 91-160 121-160 161-190
Medium High 35-43 22-26 46-60 Medium High High 81-100 121-150 161-200 191-220
Medium High 44-50 27-30 61-72 Medium High V high 101-120 151-180 221-240 221-240
High V high 51-65 31-40 73-94 High High V high 121-160 181-240 241-320 241-320
High V high 66-100 41-60 95-144 High V high V high 161-240 241-360 321-480 321-480
V high V high 101-135 61-81 45-195 V high V high V high- 241-320 361-480 ... 481-640 481-640
V high V high 136-200 82-120 196-288 V high E high E high 341-480 481-720 641-960 641-960
E high E high 201+ 121+ 289* E high E high E high 481+ 721+ 961+ 961+
*Group 4 soils are from Black Belt counties and are extracted with the Mississippi extract. All others are extracted with Mehlich 1.
t,)
t,)
Table 3. Soil-Test Ratings and Pounds Per Acre of Soil-Test
Mg and Ca for Soils and Crops
Magnesium (all crops) Calcium (all soils)
Soil-test Mg Tomatoes,
Rating pimientos,
Soil 1 Other soils Rating Peanuts fruits, and
CEC 0-4.6 CEC>4.6 nuts
Lb.a La . Lb.a./a. Lb.a.
Low .............. 0 Low 0 0
Low .............. 1-2 1-5 Low 1-2 1-40
Low ........ 3-5 6-10 Low 25-50 41-80
Low ........... 6-7 11-15 Low 51-75 81-120
Low .............. 8-10 16-20 Low 76-100 121-160
Low 11-............. 12 21-25 Low 101-125 161-200
Low .............. 13-15 26-30 Low 126-150 201-250
Low ............. 16-17 31-35 Low 151-175 251-300
Low .............. 18-20 36-40 Medium 176-215 301-365
Low .............. 21-22 41-45 Medium 216-255 366-430
Low ............ 23-25 46-50 Medium 256-300 431-500
High ............. 26-33 51-65 High 301-390 501-650
High ............. 34-50 66-100 High 391-600 651-1,000
High .......... 51-100 101-200 High 601-1,200 1,001-2,000
High ............ 101-200 201-400 High 1,200-2,400 2,001-4,000
High ............ 201-+ 401+ High 2,401+ 4,001+
Extractable Nutrients in Pounds Per Acre
All results are expressed in pounds per acre of an extractable nutrient. This method makes
the assumption that an acre-furrow-slice (one acre of soil to a depth of eight inches) weighs two
million pounds. Thus, pounds per acre is equal to pounds per two million pounds (pp2m) or mg per
two kg.
Tables Versus Formulas
Fertilizer recommendations are given in table format or by formulas. The formulas with each
recommendation table may allow for smaller incremental increases or decreases in fertilizer rates as
compared to those rates presented in the tables. For example, if a soil test report shows 50 pounds
23
per acre of K and the producer wishes to use the formula to calculate K fertilizer needs; the following
steps should be used:
1. Determine CEC range by looking at the soil group on the report;
2. Look up the appropriate equation in the back of this publication (page 68).
3. Substitute the pounds per acre of K for X and then solve for Y.
Example calculation
1. Corn
2. 50 pounds per acre soil test potassium
3. Soil group 1 (CEC 0-4.6)
4. Equation Y=80-0.99X
Y=80-0.99(50)
Y=80-49.5
Y=30.5 lb KO0 per acre
5. Round off to nearest 10 pounds.
The formula will allow for lower fertilizer rates when soil test levels are approaching a higher fertility
rating.
I!me Recommendations
Practically all Alabama soils, except for the calcareous soils of the Black Belt, are slightly to
strongly acid and may need to be limed for most crops. This acid condition results from the low level
of lime in the original soils, the high rate of leaching from excessive rainfall, the use of acid forming
fertilizers, crop removal, and other factors. About one-half of the samples received in the Soil Testing
Laboratory need lime. This ratio has not changed much in recent years. Growers should use soil-test
recommendations to maintain soil pH between 5.8 and 6.5 for most crops. Soil testing is the only
practical basis for determining when and how much lime should be applied. Soil pH is a critical
factor in determining response of crops to fertilizers and maintaining a favorable soil environment for
24
profitable production. Soil should be sampled every two or three years to ensure that production is
not limited by soil acidity.
Lime recommendations are based on two separate tests made in the Soil Testing Laboratory
on each sample. These are the (I).determination of pH, which indicates the active acidity of the soil,
and the (2) lime requirement test, which determines the amount of lime required to raise the pH to
a desired range. The amount of lime required varies among soils at the same pH because of
differences in organic matter content and the kind and amount of clay in the soils. Soils that are high
in organic matter and clay content require more lime to raise the pH to a specific range than do sandy
soils that are low in organic matter. For example, a sandysoil at pH 5.0 may require only one ton
of lime to raise the pH to 6.5, while a clay soil at the same pH may require four tons of lime.
Crops also have different requirements for soil pH, and therefore lime recommendations vary
with the crop to be grown. Lime is recommended to correct the pH of the top eight inches of soil.
Growers who plow deeper than eight inches should increase the rates accordingly. Lime should be
thoroughly mixed with the soil because the primary reason for applying lime in most cases is to adjust
the soil pH rather than to supply plant nutrients, such as Ca and Mg. Lime should be applied and
mixed with the soil as soon after sampling as possible. It will begin to react with the soil immediately
after application, but the full effect may not be evident for several months. Fineness and purity of
lime are important in determining the rate of reaction. Lime recommendations are based on the
minimum quality ground agricultural limestone as defined by the Alabama Department of Agriculture
and Industries:
90% CaCO
3 
equivalent,
90% passes a 10 mesh sieve, and
50% passes a 60 mesh sieve.
The pH requirements on which lime recommendations for different crops are based are presented in
Table 4.
25
Table 4. Lime Recommendation Codes
Code Lime if Lime to Crops
below
pH pH
0 ............. Lime recommended only Blueberries
under special conditions
1* ............... 5.8 6.5 All except those listed below
2 .............. 6.0 6.5 Most clovers, gardens, vegetable crops, and
most fruits and nuts
3 ................... 6.5 7.0 Alfalfa
4 .................... 5.0 5.5 Irish potatoes, azaleas, and tobacco
5 .............. 5.6 6.5 Coastal bermudagras, common bermudagrass,
bahiagrass, dallisgrass, lawns, fairways, and
athletic fields
*Code 1 crops are moved to Code 5 when grown on fine textured soils of Soil Group 3 or 4.
Lowering Soil pH
Most plants grow best where the soil is slightly acid in the range of pH 6.0 to 7.0. However,
a few plants, such as azaleas, gardenias, and blueberries, grow best at lower pH values. In rare cases,
it may be desirable to lower the pH by adding an acidifying agent. This can be done successfully on
soils that do not contain large amounts of free lime. Calcareous Black Belt soils cannot be practically
acidified because much of the soil contains lime (CaCO
3
). In other cases, the pH can be lowered
simply by using fertilizers containing ammonium-N (Table 5). Ammonium sulfate and sulfur coated
urea are two of the best choices for acidifying soils.
Amounts of sulfur needed to lower the pH of loamy soils are indicated in Table 6. For sandy
soils these amounts may be reduced by one-third, and for clays they should be increased by one-half.
Magnesium Recommendations
The most practical way to supply Mg is through the use of dolomitic limestone. Where Mg is low
and lime is recommended, a comment will be printed on the report stating that "both soil acidity and
low Mg can be corrected by applying dolomitic lime." Some crops have a higher requirement than
26
Table 5. Acidifying Effect of Some Common Fertilizers and Soil Amendmends
Material Pure CaCO
3 
needed to neutralize
acidity in 100 pounds of material
Lb.
Ammonium nitrate ...................... 60
Ammonium sulfate ....... ................................. ... 110
32% liquidnitrogen ........................................ 55
Urea ............................... 81
Sulfur-coated urea ........................................... 118
Diammonium phosphate ...................................... 70
Flowers of sulfur (elemental S) .......................... 312
Aluminum sulfate ............................................ 45
Iron sulfate .................................... 35
Table 6. Pounds of Elemental Sulfur' Per 100 Square Feet
Needed to Lower Soil pH of a Silt Loam Soil
Desired pH
Present
pH 
6.5 6.0 5.5 
5.0 4.5
Lb. Lb. Lb. Lb. Lb.
8.0 ....................................... 3.0 4.0 5.5 7.0 8.0
7.5 ................................ 2.0 3.5 4.5 6.0 7.0
7.0 ..... ............ 1.0 2.0 3.5 5.0 6.0
6.5 ..... .......................... --- 1.0 2.5 4.0 4.5
6.0 ..................- --- 1.0 2.5 3.5
'If aluminum sulfate is used, multiply by 6.
others for Mg and it may be supplied by other sources if lime is not recommended. For some
crops, a low rate of dolomitic lime can be recommended at higher pH values to supply the
Mg. For certain crops, such as potatoes, blueberries, and pines, a soil pH below 5.5 is
desirable and if Mg is low, a fertilizer containing Mg is recommended. The Mg
recommendation codes are given in Table 7.
27
Table 7. Magnesium Recommendation Codes
Code 1. If magnesium is low and lime is recommended, print comment 221: Both soil acidity
and low magnesium can be corrected by applying dolomitic lime at the recommended rate.
If magnesium is low and lime is not recommended, do not mention magnesium. (These
crops have not been shown to respond to magnesium.)
Code 2. If magnesium is low and lime is recommended, print comment 221: Both soil acidity
and low magnesium can be corrected by applying dolomitic lime at the recommended rate.
If magnesium is low and lime is not recommended, print comment 222: Low
magnesium may be corrected by applying 
25 pounds per acre of Mg as magnesium sulfate,
magnesium oxide, or sulfate of potash-magnesium; or if the pH is 6.5 or below by applying
1,000 pounds per acre of dolomitic limestone (cotton, vegetable crops, and orchards)
Code 3. If magnesium is low and lime is recommended, print comment 221: Both soil acidity
and low magnesium can be corrected by applying dolomitic lime at the recommended rate.
If lime is not recommended and Mg is low, print comment 223: Low magnesium may
be corrected by applying 25 pounds per acre of Mg as magnesium sulfate, magnesium oxide,
or sulfate of potash-magnesium. Potatoes, blueberries, pines, and tobacco have a high Mg
requirement but are sensitive to high pH.
Soil Organic Matter
Soil organic matter affects the CEC, nitrogen supplying capacity, and other fertility
factors. The organic matter content of most Alabama soils is low (less than 3%) and does
not vary widely among soils. Therefore, organic matter analysis is not needed in making
fertilizer and lime recommendations, and routine soil samples are not analyzed for organic
matter.
Organic matter content and cation exchange capacity are considered in determining
the rates of some herbicides required for satisfactory weed control. The CEC is indicated by
the soil group in which samples are classified. This should give some indication of the amount
of herbicide that should be used. The Soil Testing Laboratory will determine organic matter
content of soil samples on special request. A special charge is made for this service. Those
desiring organic matter analysis should request it on the information sheets submitted with
soil samples.
28
Fertilizer Recommendation
Fertilizers are recommended in pounds per acre of N, P
2
0s, and KzO. Other
recommendations are printed as comments on the report. The recommendations are based
on regression equations for crops and soil groups. Recommended fertilizer rates will be in 10
pound increments with a minimum recommendation of 40 pounds per acre of any nutrient
Specific fertilizer grades (13-13-13, 8-24-24, 15-0-15, etc.) are not recommended
because of the availability of so many grades that could be used. Most fertilizer dealers will
custom blend specific grades to meet the needs of the customer when more than one ton of
fertilizer is ordered.
For home gardens and specialty crops, the choice of grades is more limited. In these
cases, specific grades are mentioned in comments. The use of a grade such as 13-13-13 as an
example, does not indicate that purchasers should insist on this specific grade, but that any
equivalent ratio may be substituted. If 10-10-10 is used instead of 13-13-13, the amount used
should be increased about 30% and the result will be the same. If concentrated
superphosphate, which contains 46% PzO, is used instead of superphosphate, which contains
20% P
2
0
5
, the amount used should be reduced by about 55%. The same is true for nitrogen
sources and other materials.
Table 8. Most Frequently Recommended Grades and Ratios
N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 Common N-P
2
0
5
s-K20 Common Fertilizer Common
ratios grades ratios grades material grades
0-1-1 0-20-20 X-1-2 5-15-30 Ammonium
0-1-2 0-10-20 1-4-2 4-16- 8 nitrate 33- 0- 0
0-2-1 0-16- 8 1-3-3 4-12-12 Concentrated
1-0-1 15- 0-15 1-3-3 8-24-24 superphosphate 0-46- 0
1-1-1 8- 8- 8 1-3-0 18-46- 0 Muriate of
1-1-1 13-13-13 potash 0- 0-60
29
Yield Potential (Yield Goal)
Over fertilizing based upon arbitrary "yield goals" results in economic losses to the
grower and severe water quality problems in some parts of the United States. Auburn
University's soil test calibrations and recommendations are based on maximum economical
yields from actual experiments conducted on experiment stations and farms throughout
Alabama under both irrigated (where possible) and nonirrigated conditions. Phosphorous
and potassium rates are rarely related to yield potential but may be adjusted based upon
anticipated crop removal (e.g. forage crops). Nitrogen rates for grain crops (e.g. corn) and
cotton may need to be adjusted up or down based upon yield potential. Conditions for
adjustments are usually given in comments. However, sources of fertilizer and timing of
application may have as much impact on crop yields as the total annual rate used.
30
INTERPRETING REPORT OF SOIL TESTS
Soil Testing Ratings Secondary and Micronutriedont 
Elements
Soil test results are rated based on soil type and crop to be grown. Very Low (YL)
means that the crop may yield only 50 to 75% of its potential. 
Medium (M) soil will yield 75
to 100% of its potential High (H) Is the desirable level which should be the objective of
most soil building programs. It means that the supply of the nutrient in the soil Is adequate
for the crop. Very High (VH) means that the soil supply of the nutrient is more than double
the amount considered adequate. Extremely High (EH) Is used on soils where the P or K
level is excessive and further additons of P may be detrimental. These ratings are based on
the amount of nutrient that is extracted from the soil.
For example, using a soil that Is in a soil group 2, the soil ratings would be as follows based
on extractable nutrients.
K
Soil test Cotton, Soybeans,
rating P most peanuts, Mg
All crops legumes grasses All crops peanuts
Extractable nutrients, Ib/acre
Very low 0-12 0-45 0-30 - -
Low 13-25 46-90 31-60 0-25 0300
Medium 26-50 91-180 61-120 - -
High 51-100 181-360 121-240 26+ 300+
Very high 101-200 361-720 241-480 - -
Extremely high 201 + 721 + 41+ -
-
Fertilizer Recommendations
Fertilizer recommendations are for annual applications unless otherwise indicated.
Follow these for 2 or not mor than 3 years and then resample. Rates of P and K
recommended for soils testing Medium may be applied broadcast or in the row. On soils
testing Low or Very Low, some fertilizer should be placed In the row.
Rates of fertilizer recommended are based on yield response obtalned in
experiments conducted on soils similar to the one sampled. Phosphorus and potassium
recommendations are In one of the approved P
2
0
5
s to KO20 ratios. Select a fertilizer grade
with the ratio recommended. Plant nutrients are listed on a fertilizer tag or label In the order
of N-P
2
0s-K
2
0. For example, 100 pounds of 4-8-16 contains 4 pounds of N, 8 pounds of
P
2
Os, and 16 pounds of K20. Calculate the amount required to supply rates of P
2
0s and
KO20 recommended. Additional nitrogen recommended may be applied as a side or top
dressing.
Lime Recommendations
Ume should not be applied withou a reliable soil test. The rate recommended is
in tons of agricultural limestone with 90% calcium carbonate equivalent and ground so that
at least 90% passes a 10-mesh and 50% passes a 60-mesh sieve. The amount of lime
recommended is based on a plow depth of 8 Inches. If soil Is plowed to a greater depth the
rate of lime should be increased at least 1/8 for each additional inch of depth. Usme should
be thoroughly mixed with the soil of the plow layer rather than turned to the bottom of the
furrow.
All soil samples are analyzed for calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg). Calcium is not
reported except for peanuts and tomatoes, but is used In calculating the cation exchange
capacity,which determines the sol group. Dolomiticlime Is recommendedon acid soils testing
lowinMg. Sulfur isnot determined because the amount In thetopsoil s not a reliable Indication
of the need for this element. All mixed fertilizers should contan enough S to supply 10 lbs. per
acre per year. This is especially Important on the sandy soils of Group 1.
Soil tests for micronutrients (, Zn, and Mo) have not been adequately calibrated to
serve as a basis for recommendations on most Alabama soils. On crops and soil conditions
where a response is likely, recommendations for B, Zn, and Mo are printed as comments.
Most Frequently Recommended Grades and Ratios
N-P
2
0
5
-K2O Common N-P
1
0s-KO Common Fertlizer
Common
ratlos grades ratios grades -materal grades 0-1-10-20-20 4
2 5-15-30 Ammonlum
0-1-2 0-10-20 1-4-2 4-16- 8 nitrate 33-00
0-2-1 0-16- 8 1-3-3 4-12-12 Concentrated
1-0-1 15-0-15 1-3-3 8-24-24 superphosphate 0-4-O
1-1I-1 8-8-8 1-3-0 18-4- 0 Muriate of
1-1-1 13-13-13 .. of tash 0- 0-60
Examples of Sources of Secondary and Micronutrient Elements
Element and % of Pounds for
Materials Element 'lb.Nutrient
Magnesium (Mg)
Dolomitio
Umestone
Magnesium
Sulfate
Sufate Potash-
Magnesium
Boron (B)
Borax
Fertilizer
Borate 46
Fertilizer
Borate 65
Solubor
Iron (Fe)
Iron Sulfate
Iron Chelate
Iron Chelate
Iron Chelate
12
16
10
11
14
20
20
35
14
10
6
8
8
10
9
7
5
5
3
7
10
17
Element and % of Pounds for
Materlals Element lib.Nutrient
Zinc (Zn)
Zinc Sulfate 36
Zino Oxide 68
Zinc Chelate 14
Sulfur (S)
Gypsum 19 
5
Ammonlum
Sulfate 24 4
Elemental
Sulfur 100 1
Potassium
Sulfate 18 5
Superphosphate 12 8
(20%)
Ammonium
Thiosulfate 26 4
For additional Information contact the County Extension Office.
REPORT ON SOIL TESTS
AUBURN UNIVERSITY
SOIL TESTING LABORATORY
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, AL 36849-5411
PAGEL.OF__
COPY OF___ -
ALABAMA RESIDENT
118 MAIN STREET
HOMETOWN, AL 36830
SOIL TEST RESULTS
COUNTY LEE
DISTRICT 2
DATE 10/20/92
RECOMMENDATIONS
SENDER'S CROP Ra tknI 
. 2 2
I sm* P"* 
K" 
a* TN
LAB SAMPLE 
TO BE (InP" pa..
DESIGNATION GROWN - T"/&"re Porww perar
4063 1 SOYBEANS 2 5.3 L 20 M 90 
HIO100 2.0 0 s0 50
SEE COMMENT 224
40640 2 CORN 1 5.6 
1 20 M 60 H 60 ' 1.0 120 50 
160
SEE COMMENT 224
SEE COMMENT 15 _______________
40641 3 BAHIA 
1 6.0 M 40 HI100 HI100 
0.0 60 40 0
40642 GARDEN VEGETABLES 3 5.2 M 25 
M 180 H 150 . 3.0 120 100 100
SEE COMMENT2Z4
____SEE COMENT 82 ________
COMMENT NO: 224 SOIL ACIDITY (LOW pH) CAN BE CORRECTED WITH EITHER 
DOLOMIC OR CALCITIC UME
COMMENT NO: 15 CORN ON SANDY SOILS MAY RESPOND TO NITROGEN RATES UP 
TO 150 LBS. PER ACRE. ON SANDY SOILS APPLY 3 LBS.
ZINC (Zn) PER ACRE IN FERTIUZER AFTER UJMING OR WHtRE pH IS ABOVE 
6.0.
COMMENT NO: 82 PER 100 FT OF ROW APPLY 6 LBS. 8-8-(3 QUARTS) AT PLANTING 
AND SIDEDRESS WITH 4 LBS. 86. (2 QUARTS).
***ON SUMMER GRASS PASTURES APPLY P AND K AS RECOMMENDED 
AND 60 LBS. OF N BEFORE GROWTH STARTS. UP TO SEPTEMBER 1 REPEAT THE N
APPUCATIONS WHEN MORE GROWTH IS DESIRED.
ii1.0 TON UMESTONE PER ACRE IS APPROXIMATELY EQUIVALENT TO 50 
LB3S. PER 1,OOOSQ. FT.
FOR CAUUFLOWER, BROCCOUI AND ROOT CROPS, APPLY 1.0 LB. OF BORON (B) PER ACRE (FOR HOME GARDENS,
I TABLESPOON BORAX PER 100 FT. OF ROW. 
____________
*1. Sandy soils (CEC < 4.6 crnoikg
1
") 3. Clays and sonsl''.-h In organic matter (CEC> 9.0 cmnolkg')
2. oarns & Uight days (CEO 4.6-9.0 
cmioi kg") 4. Clays of the 
Blackbeft (CEC > 9.0 crnolekg~i)
*7.4 or higher -Akalne 6.6-7.3 - Neutral 6.5 or lower - Acid 
5.5 or lower - Strongly Add
**Extractable nutrients In pounds per acre 
APPROVED_________________
NAME
ADDRESS
CITY
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR' FIELD CROPS, FORAGE CROPS, AND PASTURES
Crop Code No. 01
Perennial Summer Grass Pasture
(Bahia, Bermuda, and Dallis)
Phosphorus Potassi um
.:ry high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
P,-K
2
0 per acre
Very high ... 60- 0-0 60- 0-0 60- 0-40 60- 0-60 60- 0-80
High ........ 60 -0-0 60- 0-0 60- 0-40 60- 0-60 60- 0-80
Medium .....n 60-40-0 60-40-0 60-40-40 60-40-60 60-40-80
Low ........ 60-60-0 60-60-0 60-60-40 60-60-60 60-60-80
Very Low ... 60-80-0 60-80-0 60-80-40 60-80-60 60-80-80
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no. .
evel ......... 1
.. . . 5
.I . . . . .
N rate ---------------- 60
PK code no.---.. 4
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
0
5  
K
2
o
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1&2 5 1 7
3 4 2 9
4 6 3 11
4 12
Comment:
1. On summer grass pastures apply P and K as recommended and 60 pounds of N before growth starts.
Repeat the N application up to September 1 when more growth is desired. If less than 40 pounds of N
is applied annually, then no P or K is needed.
Crop Code No. 02
Bermuda Hay (Improved Varieties)
(Bermuda Pasture 01 also Given by Computer)
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high .. 100- 0-0 100- 0-100 100- 0-200 100- 0-300 100- 0-300
High ....... 100- 0-0 100- 0-100 100- 0-200 100- 0-300 100- 0-300
Medium ..... 100- 50-0 100- 50-100 100- 50-200 100- 50-300 100- 50-300
Low ........ 100- 75-0 100- 75-100 100- 75-200 100- 75-300 100- 75-300
Very low .. 100-100-0 100-100-100 100-100-200 100-100-300 100-100-300
K requirement Level ............. 1
Lime code no. . . . .
Mg code no.. .............. 1
N rate .. ....... . . .100
PK code no. ... ......... 6
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P205 K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 22 1 131
3 21 2 132
4 23 3 133
4 134
COMMENT:
22. For bermuda hay, apply N, P, and K as recommended before growth begins and an additional 100
pounds N after each cutting up to September 1. Loss of stand is sometimes due to K deficiency. Where
large yields of hay are removed, apply 50 pounds K
2
0 per ton of hay removed the previous season.
33
Crop Code No. 03
Perennial Winter Grass Pasture
(Fescue, Orchardgrass)
Phosphorus Potassiun
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
05-K
2
0 per acre
Very high 60- 0-0' 60- 0-0 60- 0-50 60- 0-80 
60- 0-100
High9906 60- 0-0 60- 0-0 60- 0-50 60- 0-80 
601" 0-100
Medium 60- 50-0 60- 50-0 60- 50-50 60- 50-80 
60- 50-100
Low 60- 80-10 60- 80-0 60- 80-50 60- 80-80 
60- 80-100.
Very Low 60-100-0 60-100-0 60-100-50 60-100-80 60-100-100
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no. .
level---------
-1 hgh.
.
N r ate.......-S--------60
PK code no-------------------3
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
0
5
Soil group Eq.
1 &2 22
3 21
4 23
Comment:
5. Apply N,
K
2
0
Soil group Eq.
1 24
2 25
3 26
4 28
P, and K as recomrmended by Septenber 1. Repeat N application 
in February.
Crop Code No. 04
Temporary Summer Grass 
Pasture and Johnsongrass 
(MiLLet, Forage
Sorghum, Sudangrass, Sorghum- Sudagrass Hybrids)
Phosphorus Potassium.
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high 96 60- 0-0 60- 0-0 60- 0-60 
60- 0-100 60- 0-120
High---------60- 0-0 60- 0-0 60- 0-60 
60- 0-100 60- 0-120*
Medium 60-0 60-0 60- 60-0 60- 60-60 60- 
60-100 60- 60-120
Low------60-100-0 60-100-0 60-100-60 
60-100-100 60-100-120
Very low - 60-120-0 60-120-0 60-120-60 
60-120-100 60-120-120
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no. .
level--------
.1 aa
N rate-------------60
PK code no----------2
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P2015 K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group 
Eq.
I1& 2 43 1 46
3 42 2 
48
4. 45 3 
51
4 62
Comment:
6. Fo r temporary summer grass or Johnsongrass, apply 
N, PP, and K as recommiended before growth
begins. Up to September 1, for Johnsongrass hay, apply at 
least 50 pounds of K
2
0 per ton of hay removed
the previous season.
34
Crop Code No. 05
Annual Legume with Small Grain and Ryegrass
Arrowleaf Clover, Crimson Clover, Vetch, Caley Peas
with Oats, Wheat, Rye Ryegrass)
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0-K
2
0 per acre
Very high . 60- 0-0 60- 0-0 60- 0-60 60- 0-100 60- 0-120
High ...... 60- 0-0 60- 0-0 60- 0-60 60- 0-100 60- 0-120
Medium .. 60- 60-0 60- 60-0 60- 60-60 60- 60-100 60- 60-120
Low ........ 60-100-0 60-100-0 60-100-60 60-100-100 60-100-120
Very low . 60-120-0 60-120-0 60-120-60 60-120-100 60-120-120
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no.
Level. .. ......
.h a . . .
a . . 4. a . .0 . . .a.0
N rate - 60
PK code no ............ 2
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P205 K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 43 1 46
3 42 2 48
4 45 3 51
4 62
Comment:
4. On grass-legume mixtures, apply 60 pounds of N in early spring unless no additional forage
growth is needed or the legume occupies one-half or more of the ground cover.
7. For reseeding clover, or clover seed harvest, apply 1 to 1.5 pounds B per acre.
Crop Code No. 06
White Clover, Arrowleaf Clover, Red Clover
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
05-K
2
0 per acre
Very high .. 0- 0-0 0- 0-0 0- 0-80- 0- 0-120 0- 0-180
High ....... 0- 0-0 0- 0-0 0- 0-80 0- 0-120 0- 0-180
Medium ..... 0- 80-0 0- 80-0 0- 80-80 0- 80-120 0- 80-180
Low 0-120-0 0-120-0 0-120-80 0-120-120 0-120-180
Very low ... 0-180-0 0-180-0 0-180-80 0-180-120 0-180-180
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no. .
level -2
-2 . . . . .
N rate- .. .-. .. ..... .0
PK code no. ...... ..-. 1
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
0
5  
K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 80 1 82
3 79 2 84
4 81 3 85
4 96
Comment:
7. For reseeding clover, or clover seed harvest, apply 1 to 1.5 pounds B per acre.
35
Crop Code No. 07
Perennial or Late-Maturing Legumes with Summer Grass Pasture (White Clover,
Arrowleaf Clover, Red Clover, With Dallis, Bermuda, Bahia)
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
O
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high .. 0- 0-0 0- 0-0 0- 0-80 0- 0-120 0- 0-180
High ....... 0- 0-0 0- 0-0 0- 0-80 0- 0-120 0- 0-180
Medium 0-..... 80-0 0- 80-0 0- 80-80 0- 80-120 0- 80-180
Low ........ 0-120-0 0-120-0 0-120-80 0-120-120 0-120-180
Very low ... 0-180-0 0-180-0 0-180-80 0-180-120 0-180-180
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no..
level - . - 2
, . . . . . . . . . . . 2
N rate- ....... .... 0
PK code no. ............. 1
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P205 
K20
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 80 1 82
3 79 2 84
4 81 3 85
4 96
Comment:
7. For reseeding clover, or clover seed harvest,
8. Where legume covers tess than one-third of the
grazed down or cut for hay.
apply 1 to 1.5 pounds B per acre.
ground, apply 60 pounds of N each time forage is
Crop Code No. 08
Clover and Winter Perennial Grass Pasture
(White Clover, Red Clover with Fescue or Orchardgrass)
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very tlow
Pounds N-P
2
0s-K
2
0 per acre
Very high .. 0- 0-0 0- 0-0 0- 0-80 '0- 0-120 0- 0-180
High ....... 0- 0-0 0- 0-0 0- 0-80 0- 0-120 0- 0-180
Medium ..... 0- 80-0 0- 80-0 0- 80-80 0- 80-120 0- 80-180
Low ........ 0-120-0 0-120-0 0-120-80 0-120-120 0-120-180
Very low .. 0-180-0 0-180-0 0-180-80 0-180-120 0-180-180
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no..
level ......... 2
a . 9 ) . . . . . . . . 2
.2pa a k 0 a
N rate . ........... 0
PK code no. ........ 1
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
0
5  
K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 80 1 82
3 79 2 84
4 81 3 85
4 96
Comment:
7. For reseeding clover, or clover seed harvest, apply I to 1.5 pounds B per acre.
9. On grass legume mixtures, where legume is less than one-third of the ground cover, apply 60
pounds of N in early fall and repeat if needed in early spring.
36
Crop Code No. 09
Annual Legume and Summer Grass Pasture
(Ball. Clover, Crimson Clover, and Bermuda, Dallis., Bahia)
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Ver
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high..., 0-.0-0,, 0- 0-0 0- 0-50, 0- 0-80 0- 0-100
High 0. - 0 0- 0 0 0 0 0 0 -0
Med i um... 0- 50-0- 0- 50-0 0- 50-50 0- 50-80 0- 50-100
Low 0- 80-0 ..0- 80-0 0- 80-50 0- 80-80 0- 80-100
Very low -- 0-100-0 , 0-100-0 0-100-50 0-100-80 0-100-100
K requirement -t'LeveL -.-
L ime code n~, .--
Mg code no..
2
Nrate--------------------0
PK code no.--------
Fertilizer Recommnendation FormuLa
P205 K
2
0
SoiL group Eq. SoiL group. Eq.
1 & 2 22 1 25
3 21 2 27
4 23 3 29
4 41
Comment:
7. For reseeding clover, or clover seed harvest, apply 1 to 1.5
8. Where Legume covers less than one-third of the ground, apply
grazed down or cut for hay.
Crop Code No..10
po unds B per acre.
60 pounds of N each time forage is
Cotton
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high. H igh Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high. 90- 0-0 90- 0-0 90- 0-60 90 0-90 90- 0-120
High.... 90- 0-0 90- 0-0 90- 0-60 90- 0-90 90- 0-120
M ed iumn... 90- 60-0 90- 60-0 90- 60-60 90- 60-90 90- 60-120
Low 90-100-0 90-100-0 90-100-60 90-100-90 90-100-120
Very Low ... 90-120-0 90-120-0. 90-120-60 90-120-90 90-120-120
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no. .
LeveL-------------
N rate. .. ......... 90
PK code no-----------------.2
Fertitizer Recommendation FormuLa
P205 K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 &2 43 1 49
3 42 2 52
.4 . 45. 3 54
. .4 64
Comment: . .. . .
10. For cottonuse-the N rateis a guide. Where cotton follows a good crop of soybeans or on
Land where excessive growth has caused problems with Late maturity, insects, or boll rot, reduce the
N rate 20, to .30 pounds per acre. Where vegetative growth has been inadequate, increase the N rate
by %-his- amount. Apply 0.3 pound of B per acre in the fertilizer or in the insecticide spray or
dust. For cotton following hay crops, pasture, or soybeans on soils testing Low or Medium in 
K,
increase K
2
0 application 30 to 60 pounds per acre above the amount recommnended.
37
Crop Code No. 10 (Continued)
Starter fertilizer containing 25 to 30 pounds N and 15 to 40 pounds of P 0pr e may be
used under reduced tillage condition by placing material in a 2 X 2 band, in a subsoil slit, or in a
surface-applied band at planting.
Nitrogen may be applied in split applications up to early bloom. Additional N, if needed, can
be foliar-applied as urea at rates not exceeding 15 pounds urea 
per acre per application..
Crop Code No. 13
Corn
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
j-1
2
0 per acre
Very high s 120W 0-0 120- 0-0 120- 0-40 120- 0-60 120- 0-80
High.000 120- 0-0 120- 0-0 120- 0-40 120- 0-60 120- 0-80
Medium 120-40-0 120-40-0 120-40-40 120-40-60 120-40-80
Low.......120-60-0 120-60-0 120-60-40 120-60-60 120-60-80
Very LowS. 120-80-0 120-80-0 120-80-40 120-80-60 120-80-80
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no..
level
.1 000
N rate... . .. . .120
PKcode no ........... 4
Fertilizer Recommnendation FornuLa
Ps 205K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1&2 5 1 7
3 4 2 9
4 6 3 11
4 1
Corrent:
15. Corn, on sandy soilIs may respond to'nitrogen rates up to 150 pounds per acre. On sandy 
soils
apply three pounds Zn per acre. in fertilizer after liming or where pH is above 6.0. (Comment to be
used only on Class I and Class 2 soils.)
Crop Code No. 15
Corn (in Rotation Before Soybeans)
Phosphorus Potassium
VerY high High Medium Low Very o
Pounds N-P
2
0,-K
2
0 per acre
Very high 120- 0-0 120- 0-0 120- 0-80 120- 0-120 120- 0-160
High..we 120- 0-0. 120- 0-0 120- 0-80 120- 0-120 120- 0-160
Mediumn 120- 80-0 120- 80-0 120- 80-80 120- 80-120 120- 80-160
Low 120-160-0 120-160-0 
120-160-80 120-160-120 120-160-160
Very low 120-160-0 120-160-0 120-160-80 120-160-120 120-160-160
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no.
level.........
.1mnt'.1Cr o ad
Mrate ....................0120
PK code no................. 11
38
Crop Code No. 15 (Continued)
Fertilizer Recoumendation FormuLa
P
2
0
5  
K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group 
Eq.
1&2 74 1 75
3 73 2 76
4 75 3 77
4 78
Comrment:
15. Corn on sandy soils may respond to nitrogen rates up 
to 150 pounds per acre. On sandy soils
apply three pounds Zn per acre in fertilizer after 
Liming or where pH is above 6.0. (Comrment to be
used only on Class 1 and Class 2 soils.)
Crop Code No. 16
Irrigated Corn, Corn, or Sorghum Silage
Phosphorus Potassium
Ver high Hi Medium Lw Very low.
Pounds N P
2
0
5
K
2
0 per acre
Very high 180- 0-0 180- 0-30 180- 0-60 180- 0-120 
180- 0-120
High.09 180- 30-0 180- 30-30 180- 30-60 180- 
30-120 180- 30-120
Medium .. 180- 60-0 180- 60-30 180- 60-60 180- 60-120 
180- 60-120
L ow ............ 0 180-120-0 180-120-30 180-120-60 180-120-120 
180-120-120
Very Low 180-120-0 180-120-30 180-120-60 180-120-120 
180-120-120
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no..
level .
.I 0
.10
N rate....................180
PK code no.................26
Fertilizer Recommendation FormuLa
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
I1& 2 35 1 58
3 32 2 60
4 37 3 62
4 63
Comment:
16. on sandy soils apply three pounds Zn per acre in fertilizer 
after liming or where pH is above
6.0. (Commnent to be used only on Class 1 and 2 soils.)
39
Crop.Code No. 17
Peanuts
Phosphorus Potassi u
Very high High Medium Low VeryLow
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high - 0- 0-0 0- 0-0 0- 0-40. 0- 0-80 0-' 0-120
High.00a 0 '- 0-0 0- 0-0 0- 0-40 0-' 0-80 0- 0-120
Medium 0- 40-0 0- 40-0 0- 40-40 0- 40-80 0- 40-120
Low 0- 80-0 0- 80-0 0- 80-40 0- 80-80 0- 80-120
Very Low ...- 0-120-0 0-120-0 0-120-40 0-120-80 0-120-120
K requirement LeveL---------
PK code no.
Mg code no.
N rate.----------0
PK code no---------5
FertiLizer Recommendation FormuLa
P205K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 &2 31 1 34
3 30 2 36
4 33 3 38
4 53
Comrment:
11. For peanuts apply 0.3 to 0.5 pound B per acre in the fertilizer, gypsumx, or disease controt
spray or dust.
13. Apply 250 pounds of gypsumn at blooming time. (Where caLcium is medium and no Lime is
recommnended or calcium is low and Lime is recommrended.)
14. Apply 500 pounds of gypsum at blooming time. (Where catcium is Low and no Lime is
recommended.)
Crop Code No. 19
Annual Legumes (Crimson Clover, Ball Clover,
Annual Lespedeza, Catey Peas, and Vetch)
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high .00 0- 0-0 0- 0-0 0- 0-50 0- 0-80 0- 0-100
High 9696 0- 0-0 0- 0-0 0- 0-50 0- 0-80 0- 0-100
Medium .. 0- 50-0 0- 50-0 0- 50-50 0- 50-80 0- 50-100
Low-------0- 80-0 0- 80-0 0- 80-50 0- 80-80 0- 80-100
Very Low.-. 0-100-0 0-100-0 0-100-50 0-100-80 0-100-100
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no. .
LeveL.........2
-141 0 0 0 0 0 0
-1 a 0 0 0
Nrate..............0
PK code no.........3
Fertilizer Recommnendation Formuta
P
2
0
5  
K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
I1&2 22 1 .25
3 21 .2 27
4 23 3 29
4 41
Comment:
7. For reseeding cLover, or cLover seed harvest, apply 1 to 1.5 pounds B8 per acre.
Annul Lgune (Cimso C p
40
Crop Code No. 20
Southern Peas
Phosphorus 
Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very Low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high ... 30- 0-0 30- 
0-0 30- 0-50 30- 0-80 30- 0-100
High......... 30- 0-0 30- 0-0 
30- 0-50 30- 0-80 30- 0-100
Medium ...... 30- 50-0 30- 50-0 
30- 50-50 30- 50-80 30- 50-100
Low ......... 30- 80-0 30- 
80-0 30- 80-50 30- 80-80 
30- 80-100
Very low .... 30-100-0 
30-100-0 30-100-50 30-100-80 
30-100-100
K requirement Level .........
2 N rate . . . . . .... .30
Lime code no. . 1 
PK code no ......... 3
Mg code no. -. .. . ... . .... 
1
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P205 
K
2
0
Soil group Eq. SoiL group Eq.
1 & 2 22 1 
25
3 21 2 27
4 23 3 29
4 41
Crop Code No. 21
Grain Sorghum, Sweet Sorghum, Sugar Cane,
and SunfLower
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very 
low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high ... 80- 0-0 80- 0-0 80- 0-40 
80- 0-60 80- 0-80
High ........ 80- 0-0 80- 0-0 80- 0-40 80- 
0-60 80- 0-80
Medium ...... 80-40-0 80-40-0 80-40-40- 80-40-60 
80-40-80
Low ......... 80-60-0 80-60-0 80-60-60 80-60-60 
80-60-80
Very low .... 80-80-0 80-80-0 80-80-40 80-80-60 
80-80-80
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no. .
level . . ......... 1
. m . . . . . . . . . . 1
N rate ................ 80
PK code no ........... 4
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
0
5  
K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1&2 5 1 7
3 4 2 9
4 6 3 11
4 12
41
Crop Code No. 22
Alfalfa
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high 0- 0-0 0- 0-120 0- 0-240 0- 0-360 0- .0-480
High.... 0- 0-0 0- 0-120 0- 0-240 0-036 0- 0-480
Medium 0- 80-0 0- 80-120 0-' 80-240 0- 80-360 0- 80-480
Low.......0-120-0 0-120-120 0-1120-240 0-120-360 0-120-480
Very low .. 0-200-0 0-200-120 0-200-240 0-200-360 0-200-480
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no. .
level---------2
-3 is . .1
Nrate...........
PK codeno............
Fertilizer Recommendation Forrmuta
205K
2
0
Soi, group Eq. Soi group Eq.
I1& 2 89 1 135
3 87 2 136
4 92 3 137
4 138
Comment:
21. For establishment of alfalfa apply at Least 50 pounds K
2
0 per
23. For alfalfa apply three pounds of B per acre annuaLLy.
ton of anticipated hay removed.
Crop Code No. 23
Serlcea Lespedeza
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high -H igSh medium Low Very tow
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high 0- 0-0 0- 0-0 0- 0-40 0- 0-80 0- 0-120
High **es 0- 0-0 0 0-0 0- 0-40 0- 0-80 0- 
0-120
Medium... 0- 40-0 0- 40-0 0- 40-40. -0- 
40-80 0- 40-120
Low.......0- 80-0 0- 80-0 0- 80-40 0- 
80-80 0- 80.-120
Very tow 0-120-0 0-120-0 0-120- 40 0-120-80 
0-120-120
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no..
level . . ..2
1
1
N rate..............
PK code no.........
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
05 K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group 
Eq.
1 & 2 31 1 36
3 30 2 
39
4 33 3 40
4 54
Comment:
24. Fertilizer recommended should be sufficient for two 
years.
42
Crop Code No. 24
Soybeans
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high .... 0- 0-0 0- 0-0 0- 0-40 0- 0-80 0- 0-120
High ........ 0- 0-0 0- 0-0 0- 0-40 0- 0-80 0- 0-120
Medium ...... 0- 40-0 0- 40-0 0- 40-40 0- 40-80 0- 40-120
Low .......... 0- 80-0 0- 80-0 0- 80-40 0- 80-80 0- 80-120
Very low .... 0-120-0 0-120-0 0-120-40 0-120-80 0-120-120
K requirement level .......... 2 N rate. ........... 0
Lime code no.............. PK code no . . . . . . . . . 5
Mg code no. .. ............ 1
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
0
5  
K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 31 1 36
3 30 2 39
4 33 3 40
4 54
Crop Code No. 25
Small Grain - Soybean Rotation
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high .. 100- 0-0 100- 0-0 100- 0-80 100- 0-120 100- 0-160
High ....... 100- 0-0 100- 0-0 100- 0-80 100- 0-120 100- 0-160
Medium ..... 100- 80-0 100- 80-0 100- 80-80 100- 80-120 100- 80-160
Low ........ 100-160-0 100-160-0 100-160-80 100-160-120 100-160-160
Very low ... 100-160-0 100-160-0 100-160-80 100-160-120 100-160-160
K requirement level .... ......... 1 N rate ............. .100
Lime code no.
Mg code no. .
. . . . . . . . . . . . 1
..... ........ 1
...............
PK code no ............ .11
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
0
5  
K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 90 1 75
3 88 2 76
4 93 3 77
4 78
Comment:
25. If the recommended amounts of P and K are applied to small grain in the fall, no additional P
or K should be needed for soybeans the following year.
34. For small grains and ryegrass planted on fallowed fields in early September for grazing,
apply 100 pounds of N at planting and 60 pounds in early spring for grazing or grain. Those crops
grown for grain only should receive 20 pounds of N in the fall and 60 pounds in the spring.
Ryegrass planted alone for grazing should receive no more than 60 pounds of N in the fall and up to
100 pounds N in the early spring.
43
Crop Code No. 26
Tobacco (Flue Cured)
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very Low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high .. 60- 50-100 60- 60-120 60- 80-160 60- 50-200 60- 50-200
High ...... 60- 50-100 60- 60-120 60- 80-160 60- 50-200 60- 50-200
Medium ..... 60-100-100 60-120-120 60-100-200 60-100-200 60-100-200
Low ....... 60-200-100 60-200-100 60-200-200 60-200-200 60-200-200
Very ow .. 60-200-100 60-200-100 60-200-200 60-200-200 60-200-200
K requirement level ......... 2 N rate . 60
Lime code no , . ..... 4 PKcode no ......... 8
Mg code no .... ......... 3
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
0
5  
K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 112 1 116
3 111 2 118
4 113 3 119
4 119
Note:
Increase N to 140 pounds per acre for Burley and Darkfire tobacco.
Crop Code No. 27
Small Grain or Temporary Winter Grass Pasture
(Oats, Rye, Wheat, Ryegrass)
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very Low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high .. 100- 0-0 100- 0-0 100- 0-60 110- 0-100 100- 0-120
High ....... 100- 0-0 100- 0-0 100- 0-60 100- 0-100 100- 0-120
Medium ..... 100- 60-0 100- 60-0 100- 60-60 100- 60-100 100- 60-120
Low ........ 100-100-0 100-100-0 100-100-60 100-100-100 100-100-120
Very low ... 100-120-0 100-120-0 100-120-60 100-120-100 100-120-120
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no. .
level .. ......... 
1
.. 1
.I ? ? ? ? ?
N rate ............. .100
PK code no ............ 2
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
0
5  
K20
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 43 1 46
3 42 2 48
4 45 3 51
4 62
Comment:
34. For small grains and ryegrass planted on fallowed fields in early September for grazing, apply
100 pounds of N at planting and 60 pounds in early spring. Ryegrass planted alone for grazing
should receive no more than 60 pounds of N in the fall and up to 100 pounds in the early spring.
For grain only, apply 20 ,unds N per acre in the fall and 60 to 80 pounds in the spring. The
fall N can be eliminated following a good soybean crop or other legume.
44
RECOMENDATIONS FOR TURFGRASS, LAWNS,'GOLF COURSES, ATHLETIC FIELDS, AND ROADSIDES
Crop Code No. 40
Bermuda, Zoysia, St. Augustine Lawn
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high ... 80- 0-0 80- 0-0 80- 0-40 80- 0-80 80- 0-80
(27) (27) (28) (29) (29)
High ....... 80- 0-0 80- 0-0 80- 0-40 80- 0-80 80- 0-80
(27) (27) (31) (32) (32)
Medium ..... 80-40-0 80-40-0 80-40-40 80-40-80 80-40-80
(30) (30) (31) (32) (32)
Low 80-80-0 80-80-0 80-80-40 80-80-80 80-80-80
(33) (33) (35) (35) (35)
Very low .. 80-80-0 80-80-0 80-80-40 80-80-80 80-80-80
(33) (33) (35) (35) (35)
K requirement Level ... ...... 2 N rate ........... 80
Lime code no. . *.. .... . . 5 PK code no ......... 12
Mg code no. ... ......... 1
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P205 K20
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 14 1 16
3 13 2 17
4 15 3 18
4 19
Comment:
26. One ton Limestone per acre is approximately equivalent to 50 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
Suggestions for meeting recommendations:
27. Per 1,000 square feet apply one pound N (three pounds ammonium nitrate or equivalent) when
spring growth begins and repeat in mid-summer. If more growth or better color is desired make
additional applications of one pound N at two-month intervals.
28. Per 1,000 square feet apply six pounds 15-0-15, or equivalent Low phosphorus fertilizer, when
spring growth begins and apply one pound N (three pounds ammonium nitrate or equivalent) in mid-
summer. If more growth or better color is desired, make additional applications of one pound N at
two-month intervals.
29. Per 1,000 square feet apply six pounds 15-0-15, or equivalent low phosphorus fertilizer, 
when
spring growth begins and repeat in mid-summner. If more growth or better color 
is desired, make
additional applications of one pound N (three pounds amrwnium nitrate or equivalent) at two-month
intervals.
30. Per 1,000 square feet apply one pound N (three pounds ammonium nitrate or equivalent) and 
five
pounds superphosphate or equivalent when spring growth begins and apply one pound N in mid-summer.
If more growth or better color is desired, make additional applications of one pound N at two-month
intervals.
31. Per 1,000 square feet apply 12 pounds 13-13-13 or equivalent when spring growth begins and
apply one pound N (three pounds ammonium nitrate or equivalent) in mid-summer. If more growth or
better color is desired, make additional applications of one pound N at two-month intervals.
32. Per 1,000 square feet apply 12 pounds 13-13-13 or equivalent when spring growth 
begins and
apply six pounds 15-0-15 or equivalent Low phosphorus fertilizer in mid-summer. If more growth 
or
better color is desired, make additional applications of one pound N (three pounds ammonium nitrate
or equivalent) at two-month intervals.
33. Per 1,000 square feet apply 10 pounds superphosphate or equivalent and one pound N (three
pounds ammonium nitrate or equivalent) when spring growth begins and apply one pound 
N in mid-
summer. If more growth or better color is desired, make additional applications of 
one pound N at
two-month intervals.
35. Per 1,000 square feet apply 12 pounds 13-13-13 or equivalent when spring growth begins 
and
repeat in mid-summer. If more growth or better color is desired, make additional applications 
of
one pound N (three pounds ammonium nitrate or equivalent) at two-month intervals.
112. Final remark. For small areas, comments give examples of ways to meet the fertilizer
recommendations. Other fertilizer grades or materials that supply equivalent amounts 
of plant
nutrients may be used with equal results. If you need assistance in calculating amounts 
of other
materials to use, contact your county agent or fertilizer supplier.
45
Crop Code No. 42
Centipede Lawn
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very 
low
Pounds N-P
2
05-K
2
0 per acre
Very high ... 40- 0-0 40- 0-0 40- 0-40 40- 0-40 40- 0-40
(39) (39) (40) (40) (40)
High ........ 40- 0-0 40- 0-0 40- 0-40 40- 0-40 40- 0-40
(39) (39) (40) (40) (40)
Medium ...... 40-40-0 
40-40-0 40-40-40 
40-40-40 40-40-40
(39) (39) (44) (44) (44)
Low ......... 40-40-0 40-40-0 40-40-40 40-40-40 
40-40-40
(43) (43) (44) (44) (44)
Very low .... 40-40-0 40-40-0 40-40-40 40-40-40 40-40-40
(43) (43) (44) (44) (44)
K r-equirement Level . ---- 2 N rate. .------- 
..- 40
Lime code no. ... ..........
Mg code no, ............ . 1
PK code no .. ....... 13
Comment:
26. One ton Limestone per acre is approximately equivalent to 50 pounds 
per 1,000 square feet.
38. The low fertilizer requirement does not justify use of 
recommendation formula.
39. Per 1,000 square feet apply one pound N (three pounds ammonium 
nitrate or equivalent) when
spring growth begins. If phosphorus is excessive, fertilizers 
containing this element should not be
used. Excessive phosphorus may cause an iron deficiency. The symptoms 
occur as a general yellowing
of new growth. To correct, spray with 
a soluble source of iron which can be found at 
garden supply
stores.
40. Per 1,000 square feet apply six pounds 15-0-15 or equivalent 
low phosphorus fertilizer when
spring growth begins. If phosphorus is excessive, fertilizers 
containing this element should not be
used. Excessive phosphorus may cause an iron deficiency. The symptoms 
occur as a general yellowing
of new growth. To correct, spray with a soluble source of iron 
which can be found at garden supply
store.
43. Per 1,000 square feet apply one pound N (three pounds ammonium nitrate 
or equivalent) and five
pounds superphosphate or equivalent when spring growth begins.
44. Per 1,000 square feet apply 12 pounds 13-13-13 or equivalent 
when spring growth begins.
112. Final remark. For small area, comments give examples 
of ways to meet the fertilizer
recommendations. Other fertilizer grades or materials that supply equivalent 
amounts of plant
nutrients may be used with equal results. If you need assistance 
in calculating amounts of other
materials to use, contact your county agent or fertilizer 
supplier.
46
Crop Code No. 43
Winter Lawn
(Ryegrass, Fescue, Bluegrass)
Phosphorus 
Potassium
Very high High Medium Low 
Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high ... 80- 0-0 
80- 0-0 80- 0-40 80- 0-80 
80- 0-80
(45) (45) (46) (47) 
(47)
High ........ 80- 0-0 80- 0-0 
80-40-40 80-40-80 80-40-80
(45) (45) (49) (50) (50)
Medium ...... 80-40-0 80-40-0 
80-40-40 80-40-80 80-40-80
(48) (48) (49) (50) 
(50)
Low ......... 80-80-0 80-80-0 
80-80-40 80-80-80 80-80-80
(51) (51) (53) (53) 
(53)
Very low .... 80-80-0 80-80-0 
80-80-40 80-80-80 80-80-80
(51) (51) (53) (53) 
(53)
K requirement level .. ..... 2 
N rate .. .... .. 80
Lime code no ............. 5 PK code 
no . .
Mg code no. . .............. 1
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
aa. .. ........ 12
P205 K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 14 1 
16
3 13 2 17
4 15 3 
18
4 19
Comment:
26. One ton limestone per acre is approximately 
equivalent to 50 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
45. Per 1,000 square feet apply one pound N 
(three pounds ammonium nitrate or equivalent) in 
the
fall and repeat in the spring. If more growth or better 
color is desired, add one pound N at two-
month intervals.
46. Per 1,000 square feet apply six pounds 15-0-15 or 
equivalent low phosphorus fertilizer in the
fall and apply one pound N (three pounds ammonium 
nitrate or equivalent) in the spring. If more
growth or better color is desired, add one pound N 
at two-month intervals.
47. Per 1,000 square feet apply six pounds 15-0-15 or equivalent low phosphorus fertilizer in the
fall and repeat in the spring. If more growth or 
better color is desired, add one pound N (three
pounds ammonium nitrate or equivalent) at two-month intervals.
48. Per 1,000 square feet apply one pound N (three pounds 
ammonium nitrate or equivalent) and fuve
pounds superphosphate or equivalent in the fall and 
apply one pound N in the spring. If more growth
or better color is desired, add one pound N at two-month intervals.
49. Per 1,000 square feet apply 12 pounds 13-13-13 
or equivalent in the fall and apply one pound N
(three pounds ammonium nitrate or equivalent) in the spring. 
If more growth or better color is
desired, add one pound N at two-month intervals.
50. Per 1,000 square feet apply 12 pounds 13-13-13 
or equivalent in the fall and apply six pounds
15-0-15 or equivalent low phosphorus fertilizer 
in the spring. If more growth or better color is
desired, add one pound N (three pounds ammonium nitrate 
or equivalent) at two-month intervals.
51. Per 1,000 square feet apply 10 pounds superphosphate 
or equivalent and one pound N (three
pounds ammonium nitrate or equivalent) in the fall and 
apply one pound N in the spring. If more
growth or better color is desired, add one pound N 
at two-month intervals.
53. Per 1,000 square feet apply 12 pounds 13-13-13 or 
equivalent in the fall and repeat in the
spring. If more growth or better color is desired, add 
one pound N (three pounds ammonium nitrate
or equivalent) at two-month intervals.
112. F'nal remark. For small areas, comments give examples 
of ways to meet the fertilizer
recommendations. Other fertilizer grades or materials 
that supply equivalent amounts of plant
nutrients may be used with equal results. If you need 
assistance in calculating amounts of other
materials to use, contact your county agent or fertilizer supplier.
47
Crop Code No. 44
Golf Green, Tee, Commercial Sod
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0s-K
2
0 per acre
Very high ... 400- 0-0 400- 0- 0 400- 0-100 400- 0-200 400- 0-200
(54) (54) (55) (56) (56)
High ......... 400- 50-0 400- 50-50 400- 50-100 400- 50-200 400- 50-200
(54) (58) (59) (60) (60)
Medium ...... 400-100-0 400-100-50 400-100-100 400-100-200 400-100-200
(61) (62) (62) (63) (63)
Low ......... 400-200-0 400-200-50 400-200-100 400-200-200 400-200-200
(64) (65) (65) (66) (66)
Very low .... 400-200-0 400-200-50 400-200-100 400-200-200 400-200-200
(64) (65) (65) (66) (66)
K requirement level . ........ 2 N rate ... ....... 400
Lime code no. ..... ....... 1 PK code no ........ ... .14
Mg code no. . ........... 1
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P205 
K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 99 1 114
3 98 2 115
4 100 3 117
4 124
Comment:
26. One ton limestone per acre is approximately equivalent to 50 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
54. For all greens and tees, the 400 pounds N recommendation is the sum of approximately 
10 four-
to five-week applications of one pound of N per 1,000 square feet from soluble N sources. This may
be supplied as three pounds ammonium nitrate (or equivalent) when N is supplied alone or as 8-8-8,
15-0-15, or other equivalent grades suggested when P
2
0
5 
or K
2
0 are recommended. Nitrogen
applications should be alternated with application of other materials and modified 
to maintain
desired growth and color. If slow release materials are used, rates and frequency of 
application
may be modified.
55. Per 1,000 square feet apply eight pounds of 15-0-15 or equivalent low phosphorus 
fertilizer in
the spring and repeat in the fall.
56. Per 1,000 square feet apply six pounds of 15-0-15 or equivalent low phosphorus 
fertilizer in
the spring and repeat every two months for a total of four applications.
58. Per 1,000 square feet apply 14 pounds 13-13-13 or equivalent.
59. Per 1,000 square feet apply 14 pounds 13-13-13 or equivalent in the spring and six 
pounds in
the fall.
60. Per 1,000 square feet apply 14 pounds 13-13-13 or equivalent in the spring 
and four
applications of six pounds 15-0-15 at two-month intervals.
61. Per 1,000 square feet apply six pounds of superphosphate in the spring and repeat 
in the fall.
62. Per 1,000 square feet apply 14 pounds of 13-13-13 or equivalent in the spring 
and repeat in
the fatll.
63. Per 1,000 square feet apply 14 pounds of 13-13-13 or equivalent in the 
spring and repeat in
the failt. Apply applications of six pounds 15-0-15 or equivalent low phosphorus 
fertilizer at two-
month intervals.
64. Per 1,000 square feet apply 12 pounds of superphosphate or equivalent in 
the spring and repeat
in the fall.
65. Per 1,000 square feet apply 12 pounds of superphosphate or equivalent in the spring 
to build
up soil phosphorus. Apply 14 pounds of 8-8-8 or equivalent in the spring and 
repeat in the fall.
66. Per 1,000 square feet apply 14 pounds 13-13-13 or equivalent in the spring and at two-month
intervals for four applications.
48
Crop Code No. 45
GoLf Fairway
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high 120- 0-0 120- 0-0 120- 0-40 120- 0-80 120- 0-80
High...........120- 0-0 120- 0-0 120- 0-40 120- 0-80 120- 0-80
Med itLzn 120-40-0 120-40-0 120-40-40 120-40-80 120-40-80
Low.......120-80-0 120-80-0 120-80-40 120-80-80 120-80-80
Very Low 120-80-0 120-80-0 120-80-40- 120-80-80 120-80-80
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no-.
Level---------2
~5
-I1
N rate-----120
PKcodeno-------------12
Fertilizer Recommendation Formrula
P 205K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 14 1 17
3 13 2 19
4 15 3 20
4 20
67. On f airways apply 60 pounds 'of N with the recommended rates
Apply additional N as needed at the rate of .60 pounds per acre per
Crop Code No. 46
of P
2
0
5 
and K
2
0 in the spring.
appL icat ion.
Athletic Field
Phosphorus Potass iumn
Very high High Med iuLm Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high 200- 0-0 200- 0-0 200- 0-40 200- 0-80 200- 0-80
High.... 200- 0-0 200- 0-0 200- 0-40' 200- 0-80 200- 0-80
Med iumn... 200-40-0 200-40-0 200-40-40 200-40-80 200-40-80
Low 200-80-0 200-80-0 200-80-40 200-80-80 200-80-80
very Low .- 200-80-0 200-80-0 200-80-40 200-80-80 200-80-.80
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no. .
LeveL t 2
5
1
N rate------------------ 10200
PK code no---------------012
Fertilizer Recommnendation Formula
P
2
0
5  
K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group. Eq.
1 &2 14 1 17
3 13 2 19
4 15 3 20
4 20
Corment:
68. For athletic fields, nitrogen should be divided
beginning in March. Apply additional nitrogen at the
nitrate or equivalent) per acre if needed to maintain
ptus 20,feet on aLL sides is about two acres.
into four applications at two-month intervals
rate of 50 pounds of N (150 pounds ammonium
desired growth and color. A football field
49
r-nmmAntt
Crop Code No. 47
Roadside Turf Establishment
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Ver
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high .120- 0-0 120- 0-40 120- 0-80 120- 0-160 120- 0-160
High 120- 40-0 120- 40-40 120-- 40-80 120- 40-160 120- 40-160
Mediumn 120- 80-0 120- 80-40 120- 80-80 120- 80-160 120- 80-160
Low ..se& 120-160-0 120-160-40 120-"160-80 120-160-160 120-160-160
Very Low. 120-160-0 120-160-40 120-160-80 120-160-160 120-160-160
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no.
Level......... .2
.1
.I1
N rate....120
PKcodeno....15
Fertilizer Reconmendation Formula
25K 2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
I1&2. 71 1 83
3 70 2 85
4 72 3 86
4 97
Commrent:
69. Before planting turf, mix recomrmended Lime, phosphorus, potassium, and 80 pounds of 
N per acre
into the surface soil before planting. One month after planting,, apply 40 pounds 
of N per acre.
70. After establishing turf as recommended above, apply, 40 pounds of N, P
2
0
5
, and K
2
0 per acre at
six-month intervals.
Crop Code No. 48
Roadside Turf Maintenance
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very 
o
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high 80- 0-0 80- 0-0 80- 0-40 80- 0-80 
0-80
High 80- 0-0 80--0-0 80- 0-40 80- 0-80 80- 
0-80
Med ium 80-40-0 80-40-0 80-40-40 80-40-80 
.80-40-80
Low 80-80-0 80-80-0 80-80-80 80-80-80 
80-80-80
Very low 80-80-0 80-80-0 80-801-80 .80-80-80 
80-80-80
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no,.
Level a. a
2
1
1
N rate .. .. ........ 80
PK code no .0......... ..12
Fertilizer Recommvendation Formula
P
2
0
5  
K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 &2 14 1 17
3 13 2 19
4 15 3 20
4 20
50
RECOW*ENDATIONS FOR GARDENS ANMD COMERCIAL VEGETABLE CROP'S
Crop Code No. 59
organic Vegetable Garden
(numbers refer to coments at bottom of page)
Potassiu
Phosphorous VH H H L VL
VH 1 1 1,2 1,2 1,2
H 3 3 4,5j,2 4,5,2 415,2
M 6 6 6,2 6,2 6,2
L 6,7 6j7 6,7j,2 6,7,2 6,7,2
VL 6,7 6,7 6,7,2 6g,,2 6,7,2
COMMENTS:
1. Soil analyses indicate very high or excessive P. Additional organic amendments 
will add more
P. Use materials high in N but low in P such as cottonseed meat (63-1), fish meat (0-6-1), or
blood meal (13-2-1). Legume cover crops can also provide some N to subsequent crops.
2. Organic materials generally provide 
less K compared to N and P. K can be 
supplied with
"green sand" (6% K
2
0), or potassium magnesium sulfate (18% K
2
0, 11% Mg, 22% S). Apply enough
material to supply one to three pounds K
2
0 per 1,000 square feet.
3. Soil analyses indicate adequate K and P for most vegetables. To supply 
N for nonlegumes, use
materials high in N but low in K such as cottonseed meal (6-3-1), fish 
meal (10-6-1), or blood meal
(13-2-1). Legume cover crops can also provide some N to subsequent crops.
4. P is adequate for most crops.
5. To supply N for nonlegznes, use materials high in N but Low in P such as cottonseed meal (6-
3-1), fish meal (10-6-1), or blood meal (13-2-1). Legume cover crops can also provide some N to
subsequent crops.
6. Most manures and comrposts will provide some N' and P. Apply enough material to provide
approximately three pounds N and three pounds P
2
0., per 1,000 square feet during the growing season.
7. Low soil P can be corrected by using bone meal (1-15-0) or -rock phosphate (2-35% P
2
0
5
) to
provide two to three pounds P
2
0
5 
per 1,000 square feet.
8. Final commrent. Most organic materials contain Low levels of available nutrients. However,
because Large quantities are often used to build soil organic matter and improve soil physical
characteristics, soil nutrients (i.e. P) often'build to excessive Levels. Nutrient 
availability
(especially N) depends upon how fast the organic matter breaks down in the soil. Following are
typical analyses (percent N-P
2
o
5
-K
2
0) of some common materials used as soil amendments in
organically grown gardens:
fresh broiler Litter (3-3-2) composted broiler Litter (2-3-1)
blood meal (13-2-1) co "posted cow manure (1-2-1)
bone meal (1-15-0) c .,.tonseed meal (6-3-1)
fish meal (10-6-1) wheat/oat straw (0-0-1)
Legume hay (2-1-2) composted yard waste (1-2-1)
Crop Code No. 60
Home Vegetable Garden
Phosphorus Potassium.
Very high High Medium Low -Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high 120- 0-0 120- 0-60 120- 0-120 120- 0-180 120- 0-180
(72) (73) (74) (75) 1(75)
High.......120- 60-0 120- 60-60 120- 60-120 ,120- 60-180 120- 60-180
(76) (77) (78) (79) (79)
Medium .. 120-120-0 120-120-60 120-120-120 120-120-180 120-120-180
(80) (81) (82) (83) (83)
Low.......120-180-0 120-180-60 120-180-120 120-180-180 120-180-180
(84) (85) (86) (87) (87)
Very low 120-180-0 120-180-60 120-180-120 120-180-180 120-180-180
(84) (85) (86) (87) (87)
51
Crop Code No. 60 (Continued)
K requirement Level .... ......... 2 N rate ... .......... .120
Lime code no . ............ 1 PKcodeno 21
Mg code no. ................... 2
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P205 K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 94 1 101
3 91 2 103
4 95 3 105
4 110
Comment:
26. One ton limestone per acre is approximately equivalent to 50 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
71. For cauliflower, broccoli, and root crops on sandy soils apply one pound boron (B) per acre.
(For home gardens, one tablespoon borax per 100 feet of row) For corn in home gardens on sandy
soils apply one tablespoon zinc sulfate per 100 feet of row.
72. Per 100 feet of row apply 0.4 pound N (one pint ammonium nitrate) at planting and sidedress
with 0.4 pound N.
73. Per 1,000 square feet broadcast 2.3 pounds muriate of potash (one quart). Per 100 feet of row
apply 0.4 pound N (one pint ammonium nitrate) at planting and sidedress with 0.4 pound N.
74. Per 1,000 square feet broadcast 4.6 pounds muriate of potash (two quarts). Per 100 feet of
row apply 0.4 pound N (one pint ammonium nitrate) at planting and sidedress with 0.4 pound N.
75. Per 1,000 square feet broadcast seven pounds muriate of potash (three quarts). Per 100 feet
of row apply 0.4 pound N (one pint ammonium nitrate)at planting and sidedress with 0.4 pound N.
76. Per 1,000 square feet broadcast 7.5 pounds superphosphate (four quarts). Per 100 feet of row
apply 0.4 pound N (one pint ammonium nitrate) at planting and sidedress with 0.4 pound N.
77. Per 100 feet of row apply five pounds of 13-13-13 (2.5 quarts) at planting and sidedress with
0.4 pound N (one pint ammonium nitrate).
78. Per 1,000 square fee broadcast 2.3 pounds muriate of potash (one quart). Per 100 feet of row
apply three pounds 13-13-1 (1 1/2 quarts) at planting and sidedress with 0.4 pound N (one pint
ammonium nitrate).
79. Per 1,000 square feet broadcast 4.6 pounds muriate of potash (two quarts). Per 100 feet of
row apply three pounds 13-13-13 (1.5 quarts) at planting and sidedress with 0.4 pound N (one pint
ammonium nitrate).
80. Per 1,000 square feet broadcast 15.0 pounds superphosphate (eight quarts). Per 100 feet row
apply three pounds 13-13-13 (1.5 quarts) at planting and sidedress with 0.4 pound N.
81. Per 1,000 square feet broadcast 7.5 pounds superphosphate (four quarts). Per 100 feet of row
apply three pounds 13-13-13 (1.5 quarts) at planting and sidedress with 0.4 pound N (one pint
ammonium nitrate).
82. Per 100 feet of row apply four pounds 13-13-13 (two quarts) at planting and sidedress with
2.5 pounds 13-13-13 (five cups).
83. Per 1,000 square feet broadcast 2.3 pounds muriate of potash (one quart). Per 100 feet of row
apply four pounds 13-13-13 (two quarts) at planting and sidedress with 2.5 pounds 13-13-13 (five
cups).
84. Per 1,000 square feet broadcast 20 pounds superphosphate (11 quarts). Per 100 feet of row
apply 0.4 pound N (one pint ammonium nitrate) at planting and sidedress with 0.4 pound N.
85. Per 1,000 square feet broadcast 7.5 pounds superphosphate (4 quarts). Per 100 feet of row
apply four pounds 13-13-13 (two quarts) at planting and sidedress with 0.4 pound N (one pint
ammonium nitrate).
86. Per 1,000 square feet broadcast 7.5 pounds superphosphate (four quarts). Per 100 feet of row
apply four pounds 13-13-13 (two quarts) at planting and sidedress with 2.5 pounds 13-13-13 (five
cups).
87. Per 1,000 square feet broadcast 35 pounds 4-12-12 at planting. Per 100 feet of row sidedress
with 0.4 pound N (one pint ammonium nitrate).
88. For strawberries apply about one-third of the fertilizer in September, one-third about 90 days
before ripening and one-third after harvest.
112. Final remark. For small areas, comments give examples of ways to meet the fertilizer
recommendations. Other fertilizer grades or materials that supply equivalent amounts of plant
nutrients may be used with equal results. If you need assistance in calculating amounts of other
materials to use contact your county agent or fertilizer supplier.
52
Crop Code No. 61
Commrercial Vegetable Crops
Phosphorus Potassiun
Very high High medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high 120- '0-0 120- 0-60 120- 0-120 120- 0-180 120- 0-180
High..........120- 60-0 120- 60-60 120- 60-120 120- 60-180 120- 60-180
Mediumn 120-120-0 120-120-60 120-120-120 120-100-180 120-120-180
Low.......120-180-0 120-180-60 120-180-120 120-180-180 120-180-180
Very Low..- 120-180-0 120-180-60 120-180-120 120-180-180 120-180-180
K requ irement
Lime code no.
Mg code no- .
level.........2
-0
.0 *a 00 -00 2
N rate 120 ....... 2
PK codeno.........18
Fertilizer Recomnendation Formula
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 &2 94 1 101
3 91 2 103
4 95 3 105
4 110
CommTent:
100. For cauliflower, broccoli, and root crops, apply one pound of B per acre.
Crop Code No. 62
Tomatoes
Phosphorus 'Potassium
Veryhigh High Mediumn Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0,-K
2
0 per acre
Very high..- 120- 0-0 120- 0-60 120- 0-120 120- 0-180 120- 0-180
High......120- 60-0 120- 60-60 120- 60-120 120- 60-180 1120-160-180
Medium ses 120-120-0 120-120-60 120-120-120 120-120-180 120-120-180
Low.......120-180-0 120-180-60 120-180-120 120-180-180 120-180-180
Very Low.. 120-180-0 120-180-60 120-180-120 120-180-180 120-180-180
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no. .
level- .*2
.02
N rate ..................0120
PK codeno ....a...........18
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P205 K
2
0
Soil group, Eq. Soil group Eq.
I1&2 94 1 101
3 91 2 103
4 95 3 105
4 110
Commnent:
89. Apply 1,000 pounds of gypsum per acre to tomatoes before planting. (Where Ca is rated Low and
no lime is recommnended.)
90. Apply 500 pounds of gypsum per acre to tomatoes before planting. (Where Ca is rated medium
and no Lime is recomended.).
53
Crop Code No. 63
Sweet Potatoes
Phosphorus Potassium
VerY high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0O-K20 per acre
Very high ... 80- 0-0 80- 0-80 80- 0-120 80- 0-160 80- 0-200
High ........ 80- 40-0 80- 40-80 80- 40-120 80- 40-160 80- 40-200
Medium ...... 80- 80-0 80- 80-80 80- 80-120 80- 80-160 80- 80-200
Low ......... 80-120-0 80-120-80 80-120-120 80-120-160 80-120-200
Very low .... 80-160-0 80-160-80 80-160-120 80-160-160 80-160-200
K requirement Level . . 2 N rate . ........... 80
Lime code no. .. 1 PKcodeno ......... 24
Mg code no. .-.. . . . .. 2
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
0
5  
K
2
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 67 1 102
3 66 2 104
4 68 3 106
4 110
Crop Code No. 64
Irish Potatoes
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0s-K
2
0 per acre
Very high ... 120- 50-0 120- 50-100 120- 50-150 120- 50-200 120- 50-200
High ........ 120-100-0 120-100-100 120-100-150 120-100-200 120-100-200
Medium ...... 120-150-0 120-150-100 120-150-150 120-150-200 120-150-200
Low ......... 120-200-0 120-200-100 120-200-150 120-200-200 120-200-200
Very low .... 120-200-0 120-200-100 120-200-150 120-200-200 120-200-200
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no. .
Level . ... 2
4
3
. . . . . 2
. . . e. . 4
. . . . . 3
N rate ............ 120
PK code no ........... .17
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
0
5  
K20
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 108 1 116
3 107 2 118
4 109 3 119
4 125
Comment:
98. Where Irish potatoes are grown in rotation with other crops, follow lime recommendation for
Irish potatoes.
54
Crop Code No. 65
Watermelons, Cantaloupes, Cucumbers, Lima Beans,
Snap Bunch Beans, Squash, 
and Okra
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K20 per acre
Very high ... 80- 0-0 80- 0-40 80- 0-80 80- 0-120 80- 0-120
High ........ 80- 40-0 80- 40-40 80- 40-80 80- 40-120 80- 40-120
Medium ...... 80- 80-0 80- 80-40 80- 80-80 80- 80-120 80- 80-120
Low ......... 80-120-0 80-120-40 80-120-80 80-120-120 80-120-120
Very low .... 80-120-0 80-120-40 80-120-80 80-120-120 80-120-120
K requirement level . ... 2 N rate ........... 80
Lime code no .. ......... 1 PK code no . 19
Mg code no. ... ...... .. 2
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
0
5  K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
I & 2 47 1 61
3 44 2 64
4 50 3 65
4 65
Crop Code No. 66
Sweet Corn
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very tow
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high ... 150- 0-0 150- 0-0 150- 0-60 150- 0-100 150- 0-120
High ........ 150- 0-0 150- 0-0 150- 0-60 150- 0-100 150- 0-120
Medium ...... 150- 60-0 150- 60-0 150- 60-60 150- 60-100 150- 60-120
Low ......... 150-100-0 150-100-0 150-100-60 150-100-100 150-100-120
Very Low .... 150-120-0 150-120-0 150-120-60 150-120-100 150-120-120
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no. .
level .... . . . . . 2
2
.I .. 1
... 2
N rate. ........... .150
PK code no . . . . . . . . . 2
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
0
5  
K
2
0
Soil groun Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 43 1 48
3 42 2 52
4 45 3 54
4 64
Comment:
91. Apply three pounds of Zn per acre in corn fertilizer.
55
Crop Code No. 67
Pepper, Pimiento
Phosphorus 
Potassium
Very high High Medium Low 
Very tow
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high ... 100- 0-0 100- 0-60 
100- 0-120 100- 0-180 100- 0-180
High ........ 100- 60-0 100- 60-60 100- 60-120 
100- 60-180 100- 60-180
Medium ...... 100-120-0 100-120-60 100-120-120 
100-120-180 100-120-180
Low......... 100-180-0 100-180-60 100-180-120 
100-180-180 100-180-180
Very Low .... 100-180-0 100-180-60 100-180-120 
100-180-180 100-180-180
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no.
level .... . .... 2
.2 . ..
N rate .......... 100
PK code no ......... 18
Fertilizer Recommendation FormuLa
P
2
0
5  
K20
Soilt group Eq. SoiL group Eq.
1 & 2 94 1 101
3 91 2 
103
4 95 3 
105
4 110
56
RECMMENDATIONS FOR SHRUBS AND FLCOWERS
Crop Code No. 80
Shrubs and Perennial Flowers
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high ... 120- 0-0 120- 0-0 120- 0-60 120- 0-120 
120- 0-120
(92) (92) (93) (94) (94)
High 1........ 120- 0-0 120- 0-0 120- 0-60 120- 0-120 120- 0-120
(92) (92) (93) (94) (94)
Medium ...... 120- 60-0 120- 60-0 120- 60-60 120- 60-120 120- 60-120
(115) (115) (95) (96) (96)
Low .- . 120-120-0 120-120-0 120-120-60 120-120-120 120-120-120
(97) (97) (116) (99) (99)
Very Low .... 120-120-0 120-120-0 120-120-60 120-120-120 120-120-120
(97) (97) (116) (99) - (99)
K requirement Level .... . 2 N rate ... 120
Lime code no ... .1. .I. . . PK code no .. .16
Mg code no. ...... ...... 2
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
0
5  
K 
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 56 1 59
3 54 2 61
4 56 3 63
4 69
Comment:
26. One ton Limestone per acre is approximately equivalent to 50 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
92. Per 100.square feet apply one cup ammonium nitrate or equivalent in early spring 
and repeat in
early summer.
93. Per 100 square feet apply one pint 15-0-15 or equivalent in early spring and then apply one
cup ammonium nitrate or equivalent in early summer.
94. Per 100 square feet apply one pint 15-0-15 or equivalent in early spring and repeat in early
summer.
95. Per 100 square feet apply one quart 8-8-8 or equivalent in early spring and then apply one cup
ammonium nitrate or equivalent in early summer.
96. Per 100 square feet apply one quart 8-8-8 or equivalent in early spring and then apply one
pint 15-0-15 in early summer.
97. Per 100 square feet apply 1.5 pints superphosphate or equivalent and one cup ammonium nitrate
or equivalent in early spring and then apply one cup ammonium nitrate in early summer.
99. Per 100 square feet apply one quart 8-8-8 or equivalent in early spring and repeat in early
summer.
115. Per 100 square feet apply three-fourths pint superphosphate or equivalent plus one cup
ammonium nitrate or equivalent in early spring then one cup ammonium nitrate or equivalent in early
summer.
116. Per 100 square feet apply three-fourths pint superphosphate or equivalent plus one quart 8-8-8
or equivalent in early spring then apply one cup ammonium nitrate or equivalent in early summer.
112. Final remark. For small areas, comments give examples of ways to meet the fertilizer
recommendations. Other fertilizer grades or materials that supply equivalent amounts of plant
nutrients may be used with equal results. If you need assistance in calculating amounts of other
materials to use contact your county agent or fertilizer supplier.
117. Shrubs-Final remark on timing. For shrubs such as azaleas, gardenias, and rhododendron, which
require acid soil do not apply Lime. If the pH is below 5.0 you may wish to check with your county
agent concerning the advisability of using a reduced rate of lime for these shrubs.
57
Crop Code No. 81
AzaLeas, Gardenias, and Rhododendrons
Phosphorus Potassiumn
Very high High Mediumn Low Very 
low
Pounds N-
2
0
5
-
2
r0per acre
Very high . 120- 0-0 120- 0-0 120- 0-60 120- 
0-120 120- 0-120
(92) (92) .(93) .(94), (94)
High.......120- 0-0 120- 0-0 120- 
0-60 120- 0-120 120- 0-120
(92) (92) ) (94) 
(94)
Mediumn 120- 60-0 .120- 60-0 120-160-60 
120- 60-120 120- 60-120
(115) (115) (95) (96) 
(96)
Low.......120-120-0 120-120-0 120-120-60 120-120-120 
120-120-120
(97) (97) (116) (99) (99)
Very Low ..- 120-120-0 120-120-0 120-120-60 120-120-120 
120-120-120
(97) (97) (116) (99) (99)
KZ requirement LeveL.........2 N rate..........120
Lime code no,-----------0 PKcodeno.........16
Mg code no.------------2
Fertitizer Recommendation FornmaLa
SoiL group -Eq.
I1& 2 56
3 54
4 56.
SoiL group Eq.
1: 59
2 61
3 63
4 69
58
Crop Code No. 82
Roses, Mums, and Annual Flowers
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high ... 120- 0-0 120- 0-0 120- 0-60 120- 0-120 120- 0-120
(103) (103) (104) (105) (105)
High ........ 120- 0-0 120- 0-0 120- 0-60 120- 0-120 120- 0-120
(103) (103) (104) (105) (105)
Medium ...... 120- 60-0 120- 60-0 120- 60-60 120- 60-120 120- 60-120
(102) (102) (106) (107) (107)
Low ......... 120-120-0 120-120-0 120-120-60 120-120-120 120-120-120
(108) (108) (109) (110) (110)
Very low .... 120-120-0 120-120-0 120-120-60 120-120-120 120-120-120
(108) (108) (109) (110) (110)
K requirement Level ......... 2 N rate .......... 120
Lime code no, ..... 1...... 1 PK code no . . . . . . 16
Mg code no. .... . ... . .... 2
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
0
5  K20
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 56 1 59
3 55 2 61
4 57 3 63
4 69
Comment:
26. One ton limestone per acre is approximately equivalent to 50 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
102. Per 100 square feet apply three-fourth pint superphosphate or equivalent and one-half cup
ammonium nitrate or equivalent when spring growth begins.
Repeat at the ammonium nitrate application monthly until August 1.
103. Per 100 square feet apply one-half cup ammonium nitrate or equivalent when spring growth
begins and repeat monthly until August 1. If P is excessive then fertilizers containing this
element should not be used. Excessive P may cause an Fe deficiency. The symptoms occur as a
general yellowing of new growth. To correct, spray with a soluble source of Fe, which can be found
at garden supply stores.
104. Per 100 square feet apply alternately one cup 15-0-15 or equivalent and one-half cup ammonium
nitrate or equivalent monthly staring when spring growth begins. Make last application about August
1. If P is excessive, then fertilizers containing this element could not be used. Excessive P may
cause an Fe deficiency. The symptoms occur as a general yellowing of new growth. To correct, spray
with a soluble source of Fe, which can be found at garden supply stores.
105. Per 100 square feet apply one cup 15-0-15 when spring growth begins and repeat monthly until
August 1. If P is excessive then fertilizers containing this element should not be used. Excessive
P may cause an Fe deficiency. The symptoms occur as a general yellowing of new growth. To correct,
spray with a soluble source of iron which can be found at garden supply stores.
106. Per 100 square feet apply two cups 8-8-8 and one-half cup ammonium nitrate or equivalent at
monthly intervals starting when spring growth begins. Make last application about August 1.
107. Per 100 square feet apply two cups 8-8-8 or equivalent and one cup 15-0-15 or equivalent at
monthly intervals starting when spring growth begins. Make last application about August 1.
108. Per 100 square feet apply 1.5 pints superphosphate or equivalent, apply one-half cup ammonium
nitrate or equivalent when spring growth begins and repeat ammonium nitrate application monthly
until August 1.
109. Per 100 square feet apply one cup superphosphate or equivalent as corrective treatment. Then
apply alternately two cups 8-8-8 and one-half cup ammonium nitrate or equivalent at monthly
intervals starting when spring growth begins. Make the last application about August 1.
110. Per 100 square feet apply 1.5 cups 8-8-8 or equivalent when spring growth begins and repeat
monthly until August 1.
112. Final remark. For small areas, comments give examples of ways to meet the fertilizer
recommendations. Other fertilizer grades or materials that supply equivalent amounts of plant
nutrients may be used with equal results. If you need assistance in calculating amounts of other
materials to use contact your county agent or fertilizer supplier.
59
Crop Code No. 84
This crop code is primarily used for potting soil. The computer prints pounds per acre of soil-
test P, K, Ca, and Mg. It also gives the soil pH and the time requirement to bring the soil pH up to
6.5. Spaces are also printed in which soluble salts and nitrates are recorded by hand. Generally alt
reports that recieve crop code 84 are sent to the Extension horticulture specialist for fertilizer
and time recommendations.
Crop Code No. 85
Christmas Trees (Cedar, Va. Pines,
Pines, Arizona Cyprus)
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high ..... *- 0-0 *- 0-0 *- 0-40 *- 0-60 *- 0-80
High ......... *- 0-0 *- 0-0 *- 0-40 *- 0-60 *-0-80
Medium ....... *-40-0 *-40-0 *-40-40 *-40'60 *-40-80
Low *.......... '60-0 *'60-0 *-60-40 *-60-60 *-60-80
Very low ..... *-80-0 *-80-0 *-80-40 *-80-60 *-80-80
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no. .
Level ......... 1 N rate . ........... *
PK code no .. ......... 4
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
05 K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1&2 5 1 7
3 4 2 9
4 6 3 11
4 12
Comment:
172. Christmas trees - Final remark. Apply dolomitic time and P and K fertilizer 
as recommended
and work into the soil before planting. After the first year, make applications of 
up to 30 pounds
N per acre as needed to give desired growth.
60
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FRUITS AND NUTS
Crop Code No. 89
Strawberries
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Ve'dium Low Very tow
Pounds N-P,
2
%-K
2
0 per acre
Very high ... 120- 0-0 120- 0-60 120- 0-120 120- 
0-180 120- 0-180
High ........ 120- 60-0 120- 60-60 120- 60-120 120- 60-180 120- 
60-180
Medium ...... 120-120-0 120-120-60 120-120-120 120-120-180 
120-120-180
Low ......... 120-180-0 120-180-60 120-180-120 120-180-180 
120-180-180
Very low .... 120-180-0 120-180-60 120-180-120 120-180-180 120-180-180
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no. .
level . . ..2 N rate . . . . .
. . . . . 120
PK code no . . . . . .... 18
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P20)5 K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 & 2 94 1 101
3 91 2 103
4 95 3 105
4 110
Comment:
88. Matted Row System (established plantings):
At renovation just as soon as the plants stop fruiting apply 40 to 50 pounds N, apply 30 to
45 pounds N Late August or early September. A 20-pound N topdressing in February may be
useful in sandy soils.
Annual Hill Plasticulture System:
Plants require about 150 pounds N for the entire production season with approximately one-
third (about 50 pounds N) being applied dry preplant in the beds. The remaining two-thirds
(approximately 100 pounds N) is supplied by injection through the drip irrigation system.
About 50 to 100% of the K and all recommended P are applied preplant. K can be injected
along with N.
61
ro-Code No. 90
Peaches
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very 
Low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high ... *- 0-0 * 
0-0 * 0-30 *- 0-60 *- 0-90
High ........ *- 0-0 
*- 0-0 * 0-30 *- 0-60 
*- 0-90
Medium ...... *-30-0 *-30-0 *-30-30 
*-30-60 *-30-90
Low ......... *-60-0 *-60-0 *-60-30 
*-60-60 *-60-90
Very low .... *-60-0 *-60-0 *-60-30 
*-60-60 *-60-90
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no. .
Level ..
. . . . . .
.1
2
N rate ... ........... *
PK code no ------. 20
Ferti lizer Recommendation Formuta
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1&2 2 1 6
3 1 2 8
4 3 3 10
4 20
Comment:
114. Peaches - Final remark. For establishing new orchards, 
apply time and P and K fertilizer as
recommended and turn to a depth of 12 to 16 inches, then repeat 
the application and disk into the
topsoil. Broadcast 20 to 25 pounds Zn (50 to 
70 pounds 36% Zn sulfate) per acre and disk into
topsoil when establishing new plantings. No soil 
applications of zinc are usually needed on old
orchard or crop land. Maintain soil pH at about 6.5 
by reliming as needed by soil test.
For annual maintenance apply P and K fertilizer as recommended. 
For the first and second leaf
apply 0.08 pound N (four ounces ammonium nitrate or equivalent) 
per tree per year of age about
February 15, then repeat two or three times at six-week 
intervals beginning at initiation of new
growth. In third leaf apply 0.6 pound N (1.75 pounds 
ammonium nitrate) per tree, in fourth leaf
apply 0.8 pound N (2.33 pounds ammonium nitrate), 
and in fifth leaf or older apply one pound N
(three pounds ammonium nitrate) per tree. Beginning in 
third Leaf apply two-thirds of the N in
February and one-third of the N after harvest.
62
Crop Code No. 91
Muscadine Grapes
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-PA0-K
2
0 per acre
Very high.0-0 *0-0 0-300-60 .0-90
High **90 *- 0-0 *.0-0 *0-30 *.0-60 *.0-90
Mediun*-.30..0 *-.30..0 *-30-.30 *-30.60 *-30.90
Low.......*-.60-0 *-.60..0 *..60.-30 *-.60..60 *-.60.90
Very Low *-600 *-.60..0 *-.60.30 *.-60..60 *-.60..90
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no. .
level.........
.20
.2
N rate...................
PK code no---------- 0 ----20
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
0
5  
K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1&2 2 16
3 1 2
4 3 3 10
4 20
Commrent:
124. Muscadine grapes- Final remark. Apply P and K as recommended above and mai ntain pH in range
of 6.0 to 7.0 by Lining as needed according to soil test.
N should be applied as follows: In first and second year apply 0.04 pound N (two ounces ammonium
nitrate) per plant per year of age in February' and repeat in M ay and early July.
In third year. apply 0.16 pound N (one-half pound ammonium nitrate) per plant in March and repeat
~in Late May after fruit set.
In fourth year and later apply 0.32 pound N (one pound ammnonium nitrate) in March and 0.16 pound
N per plant per year of age i n late May up to a maximum application of 0.55 pound N per plant or 100
pounds N per acre.
Crop Code No. 92
Apples and Pears
Phosphorus Potassium
Very-high H igh Medium Low Very -low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high ... 0-0 ~ 0-0 * 0-30 ~ 0-60 * 0-90
High .000000-0 *.0-0 *.0-30 *.0-60 *.0-90
Medium *-.30..0 *-30.0 *-30.30 *-30.60 *-30.90
Low.......*-60.0 *-60.0 *-60.30 *.60.60 *-60.90
Very Low ... *-60.0 *-60.0 *-60.30 *-60.60- *-60.90
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no. -
level.... a.. Nrate................
PKcodeno.,............20
Fertilizer Recommnendation Formula
P
2
0
5  K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1 &2 2 1 6
3 1 2 8
4 3 3 10
4 20
63
Crop Code No. 92 (Continued)
Comment:
125. Apples - Final remark. For establishing new orchards, apply 
lime and P and K fertilizer as
recommended and turn to depth of 12 to 16 inches, then repeat the application 
and disk into topsoil.
Maintain soil pH in range of 6.0 to 7.0 by reliming as needed by soil test.
For annual maintenance apply P and K fertilizer as recommended. For young trees apply 0.1 pound
N (10 ounces calcium nitrate) per tree and for 10 years or older trees apply 35 pounds N per 
acre.
(Calcium nitrate is recommended as a source of N for apple.)
Zinc: To correct Zn deficiency in apples apply 0.08 pound Zn (0.24 pound zinc sulfate) per tree.
Broadcast 20 to 25 .ounds Zn (50-70 pounds 36% zinc sulfate) per acre and disk into topsoil when
establishing new plantings. No soil applications of zinc are usually needed on old orchard or crop
land.
Boron: Make two sprays using one pound Solubor per 100 gallons of water. Begin at petal fall
and repeat two weaedk later. If B sprays are not used, make a soil application of two pounds B per
acre annually.
Calcium: Make four sprays using either three pounds calcium nitrate or two pounds calcium
chloride per 100 gallons of water. Begin two weeks after petal fall and repeat three times at two-
week intervals.
For bitter pit: If calcium sprays are not made in early spring they should be applied as
recommended above beginning eight weeks prior to anticipated harvest. -
Crop Code No. 93
Plums
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high ... *- 0-0 *- 0-0 *- 0-30 *- 0-60 * 0-90
High ........ *- 0-0 *- 0-0 *- 0-30 *- 0-60 *- 0-90
Medium ..... *-30-0 *-30-0 *-30-30 *-30-60 *-30-90
Low ......... **60-0 *-60-0 *-60-30 *-60-60 *-60-90
Very Low *... *.60-0 *-60-0 *-60-30 *-60-60 *-60-90
K requirement level ...... . .. 1 N rate . ..........
Lime code no ... .......... 2 PK code no ......... 20
Mg code no ..... .... .. .. 2
Fertilizer Recommendation Formula
P
2
0
5  
K
2
0
Soil group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1&2 2 1 6
3 1 2 8
4 3 3 10
4 20
Comment:
135. Plums - Final remark. For establishing new orchards, apply Lime and P and K fertilizer as
recommended and turn to a depth of 12 to 16 inches, then repeat the application and disk into the
topsoil. Broadcast 20 to 25 pounds Zn (50 to 70 pounds 36% zinc sulfate) per acre and disk into
topsoil when establishing new plantings. No soil applications of zinc are usually needed on old
orchard or crop land.
For annual maintenance apply P and K fertilizer as 
recommended. For the first and second leaf
apply 0.08 pound N (4 ounces ammonium nitrate or equivalent) per tree per year of age about February
15, then repeat two or three times at six-week intervals beginning at initiation of new growth. In
third Leaf apply 0.6 pound N (1.75 pounds ammonium nitrate) per tree, in four pounds amonium
nitrate) per tree. Beginning in third Leaf apply two-third of the N in February and one-third of
the N after harvest. If borated fertilizer is not used to supply boron, apply one pound B per acre
or five tablespoons borax per tree.
64
Crop Code No. 94
Pecans
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medim Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0
5
-K
2
0 per acre
Very high . .. 0-0 -0-0 * 0-30 ~ 0-60 0-90
High ...... 0-0 -0-0 *0-30 *.0-60 *.0-90
Medium *-30.0 *-.30..0 *..30..30 *-30.60 *-3Q.9Q
Low.......*-60-0 *-.E0c0 *-.6.30 *-60.60 *-60.90
Very Low .607.0 *-.60-0 *-60.30 *-.60.90 *-.60.90
K requirement
Lime code no.
Mg code no..
Level . 1
2
2
Nrate.... .. . .
PK code no ............... :20
Fertiliier Recomrendation Formula
P
2
0
5  
K
2
0
SoiL group Eq. Soil group Eq.
1&2 2 16
3 2 8
4 3 3 10
4 20
Comment:
136. Pecans Final remark. Apply P and K as recommrended above. For trees 20 years old or more
apply six to eight pounds HN (20 to 25 pounds ammroniumn nitrate or equivalent) per tree or 100 pounds
N per acre broadcast in February. For younger trees apply'one-half pound of N (1.5 pounds ammroniumn
nitrate or equivalent) per tree per year of age. For trees four years and older showing zinc
deficiency apply 35 to 50 pounds of Zn (100 to 140 pounds 36% Zn sulfate) per acre and disk into
topsoil to about six inches.- In addition, apply two to four foLiar sprays of zinc sulfate at the
rate of two to four pounds per 100 gallons of water during April and early May the first year after
soil application. Thereafter, monitor Zn leaf levels by Leaf analysis. For younger trees apply
one-fourth pound of Zn per tree per year of tree age and work into soil. Full benefit from
fertilization will not be obtained unless a good spray program for disease and insect control is
followed.
Crop Code No. 95
Home Orchard
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pounds N-P
2
0,-K
2
O per acre
Very high ... 0- 0 * 0- 0 0-50 * 0-50 0-50
(158) (158) (159) (159) (159)
High .... *- 0- 0 *- 0- 0 *- 0-50 *- 0-50 *- 0-50
(158) (158) (159) (159) (159)'
Medium *.-50.. 0 *-.50..50 *-5Q.5Q 0 *-5Q5 5*-5Q.5
(160) (161) (161) (161) (161)
Low--------- -. 50.50 *.50.50 .*-50.5Q *50.50 *-50-50
(161) (161) (161) (161) (161)
Very Low ....- *-50..50 *..50.50 *-50..50 *-50.50 *.50..50
(161) (161) (161) (161) (161)
K reauirement Level .. ... ..... 2 N rate............
Lime code no.
Mg code no..
............ 2
.............. 2
PK code no.... .23
65
Crop Code No. 95 (Continued)
Comment:
26. One ton limestone per acre is approximately equivalent to 50 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
158. No P or K needed. Apply N for individual trees as recommended below.
159. Per 1,000 square feet apply two pounds nmuriate of potash then apply N of individual trees as
recommended below.
160. Per 1,000 square feet apply six pounds 20% superphosphate or equivalent. Apply N for
individual plants as recommended below.
161. Per 1,000 square feet apply eight pounds 0-14-14. Apply N for individual t ees as recommended
below.
162. Home orchards - Final remark. Apply nitrogen for individual plants as follows:
Peaches, plums, pecans: Apply 0.16 pound N (one-half pound ammonium nitrate) per plant per year
of age up to a maximum of one pound N per tree for peaches, 0.8 pound N per tree for plums, and 10
pounds N per tree for pecans.
Pears: Apply 0.06 pound N (0.2 ammonium nitrate) per tree per year of age up to a maximum of 0.56
pound N per tree.
Apples: Apply 0.08 pound N (one-fourth pound ammonium nitrate) per plant per year of age up to a
maximum of 0.56 pound N per plant.
Figs, grapes: Apply 0.04 pound N (0.12 pound ammonium nitrate) per pLant per year of age up to a
maximum of 0.56 pound per plant.
Strawberries: Apply 0.3 pound N (one pound ammonium nitrate) per 100 feet of row in October;
repeat 90 days before ripening and again after harvest.
Blackberries: Apply one to 1.3 pounds N (three to four pounds ammonium nitrate) per 100 feet of
row in February and one- and 1.5 to 0.7 pound N (1.5 to two pounds ammonium nitrate) after harvest.
Blueberries: Apply 0.02 pound N (0.1 pound ammonium sulfate) per plant per year of age up to a
maximum of 0.14 pounds N per plant. Split into two applications - one in February and one in June
or after harvest. Ammonium N source are recommended for blueberries. Do not time for blueberries.
Note: For plants not mentioned above use the recommendations for plants with similar growth
characteristics.
112. Final remark. For small areas, comments give examples of ways to meet the fertilizer
recommendations. Other fertilizer grades or materials that supply equivalent amounts of plant
nutrients may be used with equal results. If you need assistance in calculating amounts of other
materials to use contact your county agent or fertilizer supplier.
Crop Code No. 96
Bltueberries
Phosphorus Potassium
Very high High Medium Low Very low
Pc' inds N-P
2
0-K
2
0 per acre
Very high .... *- 0-0 *- 0- 0 *- 0-50 *- 0-50 *- 0-50
High ......... *- 0-0 *- 0- 0 *" 0-50 *- 0-50 *" 0-50
Medium ....... *-50-0 *-50-50 *-50-50 *-50-50 *-50-50
Low .......... *-50-0 *-50-50 *-50-50 *-50-50 *-50-50
Very low ..... *-50-0 *-50-50 *-50-50 *-50-50 *-50-50
K requirement level .......... .. 2 N rate............ *
Lime code no. ......... 0 PK code no ............. 25
Mg code no.--------- - 3
Comment:
163. Blueberries - Final remark. Apply P and K as recommended in February.
Apply nitrogen as follows: During first two years, apply 0.01 pound N (0.05 pound ammonium
sulfate) per plant per year of age in February, April and repeat in June.
Beginning in third year, apply 0.01 N (0.05 pound ammonium sulfate) per plant per year of age in
February, April and repeat after harvest up to a maximum of 0.07 pound N per application of 0.14
pound N per year.
66
RESEARCH
Crop Code No. 98
CHECKS AND BALANCES
A supply of check soil samples from each soil group on which the tet soil values are known
is maintained in the Laboratory. One of these samples and a blank, which contains no soil, are run
through all procedures with each batch of 30 to 45 samples, to be certain that accuracy of analysis
is maintained in the Laboratory.
Crop Code No. 99
RESEARCH
This crop code number is used primarily for research samples. The computer prints pounds
per acre of soil-test P, K, Ca, and Mg, and soil pH on regular soil-test forms. Lime recommended is
to raise soil pH to 6.5. This code can also be used on other samples when this information is
desired.
Special Comments That May Be Added By The Computer When Needed
146. Type of pasture plants to be grown was unknown. If other than above, please notify the
Soil Testing Laboratory and proper recommendations wilt be given. -
149. Crops to be grown were unknown. If other than above, please notify the Soil Testing
Laboratory for proper recommendations.
150. For nematode analysis, contact your Local county Extension office for supplies and
instructions.
151. Type of lawn grass that you are growing was unknown. If it is other than above, notify the
Soil Testing Laboratory for proper recommendations.
152. It was not known if grass species is for a lawn or pasture. Therefore, we have given you
both recommendations for this grass and you should follow the appropriate one.
153. If above Lawn grasses are mixed, follow the recommendation for the grass you prefer.
154. For additional information, contact your Local county Extension office.
157. If cool-season grasses (fescue, orchardgrass, ryegrass, etc.) and clovers are grown in the
same pasture with summer grasses (bahia, bermuda, dallis, etc.) follow the recommendation for the
crop you prefer.
Comment 221. Both soil acidity and low Mg can be corrected by applying 
dolomitic Lime at the
recommended rate.
Comment 222. Low Mg may be corrected by applying 25 pounds per acre of Mg as magnesium sulfate,
magnesium oxide, or sulfate of potash-magnesiu rr or if the pH is 6.5 or below, by applying 1,000
pounds per acre of dolomitic Limestone.
Comment 223. Low Mg may be corrected by applying 25 pounds per acre of Mg as magnesium sulfate,
magnesium oxide, or sulfate of potash-magnesium. These crops have a high Mg requirement but are
sensitive to high pH (Irish potatoes, blueberries, Christmas trees, tobacco).
If crop codes 13 and 17 appear together then comment 250 should appear:
Comment 250. For corn-peanut rotations, apply all the recommended P and K to the corn. No
additional P or K should be needed by the peanuts the following year. The recommendation for corn
in the rotation is:
If crop codes 13 and 24 appear together then comment 251 should appear:
Comment 251. For corn-soybean rotations, apply all the recommended P and K to the corn. No
additional P or K should be needed by the soybeans the following year. The recommendation for corn
in the rotation is:
If crop codes 27 and 17 appear together then comment 252 should appear:
Comment 252. For small grain-peanut rotations, apply all the recommended P and K to the small
grain. No additional P or K should be needed for peanuts the following year. The recommendation
for small grain rotation is:
If crop codes 27 and 24 appear together then comment 253 should appear:
Comment 253. For small grain-soybean 
rotations, apply all the recommended 
P and K to the small
grain. No additional P or K should be needed for soybeans the following year. The recommendation
for small grain in the rotation is:
If lime is recommended and comments 221 and 222 do no appear then comment 254 should appear:
Comment 254. Soil acidity (low pH) can be corrected with either dolomitic or calcitic lime.
If no P or K is recommended on crop codes I through 27 then comment 255 should appear:
Comment 255. If no P or K is recommended and none is applied, sample again next year.
67
EQUATIONS
1 .
2.
3.
4.0
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.,
12.
13.
14.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
Y(= 70-2. 10X
Y(= 70-1.28X
Y= 70-0089X
Y(= 800-2.58X
'(= 80-1.57X
Y(= 80-1.1OX-
Y= 80-O.99X
'(= 80-0.74X
Y= 804O.66X
'(= 80-0,55X
Y= 80-O.49X
Y= 80-O.41X
'(= 90-2.80X
'(= 90-1.70X
'90-1.19X
Y(= 90-1,07X
Y(= 90-0.72X
Y= 90-O.54X
Y(= 90-0..46X
Y(= 90-0.35X
'=100-3. 28X
'=100-2. QOX
'=100-1 .40X
Y=100-1 .26X
'=100-0. 84X
=100-O.63X
'=100-0. 56X
'=100-0.52X
Y=100-0.42X
'=110-3.85X
'=1101-2 .34X
'=110-2 .08X
'=110-1 .64X
Y=1l0-1 .47X
'=110-1 .25X
'=110-0.98X
Y=1 10-0..87X
=110-0.74X
'=110-0.66X
'=110-0 ..49X
'=110-0. 41X
'(420-3. 98X
'=120-2. 42X
'=120-2. lix
'=120-1 .69X
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.
63.
64.
65.
66.*
67.
68.
69.
70.
71.
72.
73'
74.
75.
76.
77.
78.
79.
80.
81.
82.
84.
85.
86.
87.
88.*
89.
90.
91.
'=120-1 .27X
'=120-1 .02X
'=120-0. 99X
Y=120-0.89X
'=120-0. 77X
Y=120-0 .67X
'=120-0.162X
'=120-0. SOX
'=130-4. 20X
'=130-2.55SX
'=130-1 .79X
'=130-1. .23X
'=130-1 .08X
'=130-0.82X
'=130-0. 72X
'=130-0. 62X
'=130-0. 54X
'=130-0. 48X
'=130-.0. 35X
'=140-2. SiX
'=140-1 .S1X
'=140-1 .OSX
'=140-0. 52X
'=150-2. 
77X
'=150-1 .67X
'=150-1. 16X
'=160-4. 67X
'=160-2. 85X
'=160-1 .99X
'=160-1 .32X
'=160-1 .OOX
'=160-0.81X
'=170-5. 69X
'=170-3 .46X
'=170-2. 42X
'=170-:1.46X
'=170-1. lox
'=170-0. 97X
'=170-o.72x
'(=170-0. ssx
'=180-6.2lX
'=180-5. 60X
'=180-3. 77X
'=180-3.4lX
'=180-3.16X
93.
94.
95.
96.
97.
98.
99.
100.
101.
102.
103.
104.
105.
-106.
107.
108.
110.
112.
113.*
114.
115.
116.
117.
118.
119.
120.
121.
122.
123.
124.
125.
126.
127.*
128.
129.
130.
131.
132.
133.
134.
135.
136.-
137.
68
'=180-2. 38X
'=180-1 .91X
'=180-1 .33x
'=180-0. 72X
'=180-0. ssx
'=190-3.47X
'=190-2. 09X
'(490-I .45X
'=190-1 .08X
'=190-0. 98X
'=190-0. 72X
'=190-0. 67X
'=190-0. 53X
'=190-0. 49X
'=200-2. 64X
'=200-1 .59X
'=200-1. llx
'=200-0. 52X
'=210-5. 36X
'=210-3. 25X
'=210-2. 27X
'=210-1 .37x
'=210.-0.91X
'=210-0 .88X
'=210-0. 67X
'=210-0. 59X-
'=210-0. 43X
'=220-2. 68X
'=220-1 .79X
'=220-1 .35X
'=220-1. liX
'=220-0. 68X
'=220-0. 44X
'=230-1 .1lX
'=300-2. 55X
'=300-1 .71x
'=300-I .29x
'=320-1 .27x
'(=320-1 .79X
'=320-1 . 20X
'=320-0. 90X
'=330-0 .87x
'=460-2. 95X
'=460-1 .97x
'=460-1.48X