Professional Soil Testing in Columbus, MS
Effective fertility programs start with accurate soil testing. Tri‑State Livestock LLC. provides professional sampling, certified lab analysis, and practical interpretation for Columbus-area farms—turning raw data into cost-effective fertility strategies that maximize forage production and input efficiency.
Critical Test Parameters
Soil pH: Most critical measurement. Lowndes County soils naturally acidic (typically pH 5.0–5.6). Lime corrects acidity, unlocking nutrients and enabling legume establishment.
Macronutrients (N-P-K): Phosphorus drives root development and early growth. Potassium supports stress tolerance, disease resistance, and winter survival.
Secondary Nutrients: Calcium and magnesium often deficient in Columbus-area soils. Critical for plant health and soil structure.
Micronutrients: Boron, zinc, copper tested when deficiency symptoms appear or for specific crop requirements.
Proper Sampling Protocol
Representative samples drive accurate recommendations. We collect 15–20 cores per management unit, compositing by soil type and field history. Proper depth (0–4" for pasture, 0–6" for tilled ground), timing (avoid recent fertilization), and handling all impact accuracy. Our methods follow MSU Extension guidelines and SLAN standards.
Recommendation Development
Lab numbers require interpretation. We translate results into specific, budgeted plans: lime tonnage, fertilizer blends, application timing. Recommendations reflect realistic yield goals and economic constraints—a lightly-grazed pasture doesn't need intensive hay-field fertility.
Columbus Soil Testing Pricing
$5–$8 per acre sampling service (varies with field size and accessibility). Includes proper collection, lab submittal, results interpretation, and written fertility program. Lab fees additional ($12–$28 per sample depending on analysis depth).