What is the purpose of a soil test?

The purpose of a soil test is primarily to analyze soil nutrients and pH levels for better crop management. This process allows farmers and agronomists to understand the nutrient composition and acidity or alkalinity of the soil, which are critical factors influencing plant growth and crop yields. By knowing the levels of essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients, along with the soil's pH, they can make informed decisions about fertilization and soil amendments to optimize crop production.

Moreover, soil tests can help in identifying deficiencies or toxicities in the soil, ensuring that crops receive the appropriate nutrients they need at the right amounts. This scientific approach allows for precise agricultural practices, ultimately leading to improved efficiency and sustainability in farming operations.

Other options do not directly address the key role of soil tests in nutrient and pH analysis. Determining water levels is related more to irrigation management, visual crop health assessments rely on observable indicators rather than quantitative soil data, and pest population evaluations focus on biological factors that are separate from soil nutrient status.