A web of factors contributes to a good crop, but the importance of carbon and nitrogen cannot be overstated. From soil to fertilizer to the plant matter itself, the mix of carbon and nitrogen play key roles in the development and growth of the plant. Knowing the carbon and nitrogen levels in every aspect of your field can help you maintain quality control over the end result.
A good crop starts with a good field. A good field has a healthy supply of nitrogen for plant development, but in a correct ratio to the carbon presence in the same soil. Testing soils for the levels of these nutrients allows growers to optimize the ratios beyond what nature provides.
Nitrogen deficiencies are a common concern in arable soils, leading to the introduction of nitrogen-rich fertilizers. The proper levels of nitrogen will lead to vigorous growth and development in plants, often leading to an increase in plant yields. Determining the nitrogen levels of your fertilizer is therefore a key step to a successful harvest.
Not all plants require the same levels of carbon and nitrogen, and even among the same type of plant, the nutritional health and uptake can vary. Monitoring plant growth by determining the concentrations of carbon and nitrogen in the plant tissue can serve as a diagnostic tool to head off any problems before they become serious.
Testing the carbon and nitrogen levels throughout your soil, fertilizers, and crops is a vital way to manage the health of your harvests. LECO’s 828 series can handle the determination of carbon and nitrogen in all of these organic sources. Learn more in our app notes today.
