Getting Started with the New Illinois Soil Nitrogen Test

  1. Identify fields for sampling.
    a. Submit boundary file or plat map
    b. Sample will be taken on approximately 2.5 acre grids or by management zones.
    c. Soil samples will be taken from 0-12 inches and 12-24 inches for organic nitrogen analysis.
  2. Submit field history and cropping plan.
    a. Improving nitrogen management relies on identifying the factors that are important for crop response and developing individual field recommendations.
    b. Initial rates will be conservative although in many cases may allow for substantial nitrogen savings.
  3. Review nitrogen soil map and application map.
    a. Apply nitrogen with variable rate applicator.
    b. Evaluation rates can be included in map so future rates can be adjusted for localized field responses.
    c. Map yields and analyze evaluation rates.
  4. ISNT map can be used for several corn crops. Use evaluation rates to adjust to optimum economic nitrogen rate. With previous map as a guide, resample to improve accuracy of organic nitrogen test and to track any changes in test values.