UMass Extension Vegetable Program: Fundamentals of Fertility Management

Good soil management is at the core of any agricultural operation. The soil provides the essential nutrients for plant performance. This workshop discusses the differences between organic and conventional fertility management, ranging from fertilizer rate of release to crediting nutrient contributions from soil organic matter, and just how much you can rely on a microbial community to help meet fertility needs. We will also discuss how and when to collect a soil sample for soil nutrient testing, how to interpret soil test results, and the differences between a soil fertility test and a soil health test. While the topics are geared towards the needs and interests of organic growers, the information presented will provide familiar reference points for conventional growers exploring a transition to organic.

Presenter: Sam Corcoran is the new manager of the UMass Extension Soil and Plant Nutrient Laboratory. Sam completed her PhD in Plant and Soil Sciences at UMass Amherst. Sam’s research background ranges from forage production and manure nutrient management on dairy farms to agrivoltaics on vegetable farms.