The Pre-Sidedress Nitrate Test is a soil nitrogen test that is designed to provide assistance in making agronomically and environmentally sound nitrogen recommendations for corn. The PSNT is especially useful in systems where manure has been applied because it eliminates some of the uncertainty associated with utilizing manure N.
To use the PSNT, 12 inch deep soil samples are taken when the corn is at least 12 inches tall. Samples must be dried immediately and sent to the laboratory. These samples are analyzed for nitrate-nitrogen and, based on this result and information on the expected yield and history of the field, a sidedress nitrogen recommendation is made. This test is currently available only for corn and the grower must be able and willing to apply any recommended nitrogen to the growing crop( i.e. sidedressing).
Service Fees
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Pre-Sidedress Nitrate Test | $10.00 |
Submitting Your Sample
To use this program, print a PSNT information sheet from this website or acquire a PSNT information sheet from a county office of Penn State Extension. Submit the completed form with your sample to the laboratory in your own sample container. Payment of $10.00 per sample (check made payable to Penn State University) must accompany sample(s). The results for nitrate-nitrogen will be emailed to the grower or designated individual within 24 hours of receipt by the lab.
PDF document, 294.3 KB
This fact sheet explains a new approach to nitrogen soil testing, called the pre-sidedress soil nitrate test, and includes a calculation to obtain pre-sidedress soil nitrate test recommendations.
PDF document, 141.0 KB
Use this form to submit credit card payment with your soil samples.
Ag Analytical Services Lab
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Email aaslab@psu.edu
- Office 814-863-0841
- Fax 814-863-4540
Ag Analytical Services Lab
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Email aaslab@psu.edu
- Office 814-863-0841
- Fax 814-863-4540
