New Mexico Chile Task Force

Pre-Plant Soil Testing for Soil Fertility

Soil sample should be taken as soon as the listed beds are prepared in the fall. It is best to soil sample and manage by soil type. However, an adequate composite can be obtained from 15 sub-samples randomly taken throughout the field. Take samples from the listed bed. Soil sample depth should be 8-12 inches. Submit a minimum of 2 lbs. for soil fertility testing.

Growers should request phosphorous (P) lab analysis using the Olsen (bicarbonate extractable) test and APPLY pre-plant phosphorous if test result is less then 30 ppm.
Note: Cool early spring soil temperature reduces the availability of phosphorous.

Note: Banded phosphorous, placed 2 inches below the seed at planting, is more effective than broadcast application.
Growers should request zinc (Zn) lab analysis using DTPA test and APPLY pre-plant zinc if results indicate less then 1 ppm.
A minimum of 30 ppm of nitrate-nitrogen (NO3 ) should be maintained in the soil from planting through fruit fill.

Resources:

Fertilizer Guide for New Mexico
http://cahe.nmsu.edu/pubs/_a/a-128.html
- by Charles R. Glover, Extension Agronomist; R.D. Baker, Area Extension Agronomist
Fertilizer Cost Calculations
http://cahe.nmsu.edu/pubs/_a/a-133.html PDF document
- by R.P. Flynn, Assistant Professor, Agricultural Science Center at Artesia; Charles Siepel, Hidalgo County Program Director and County Extension Agent
Selecting Synthetic Fertilizers in New Mexico
http://cahe.nmsu.edu/pubs/_a/a-134.html
- by Shane T. Ball, Extension Agronomist; Robert Flynn, Extension Agronomist; Charles E. Siepel, Hidalgo County Extension Agent; R. Darrell Baker, Extension Agronomist
Soil Analysis: A Key to Soil Nutrient
http://cahe.nmsu.edu/pubs/_a/a-137.html
- by R.D. Baker, Extension Agronomist; Shane T. Ball, Extension Agronomy Specialist; Robert Flynn, Assistant Professor
Micronutrient Fertility Guide - *Available only in print. Click here to order
Selection of Fertilizers
http://cahe.nmsu.edu/pubs/_a/a-113.html
- by Charles R. Glover, Extension Agronomist