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Reelfoot Lake, Tennessee

Need a "watermelon" view of recent soil test by UT's Soil, Plant and Pest Center on next year's melon patch.
Here 'tis:
Water pH: 5.4
Buffer Value: 7.7
P: 80 (High)
K: 209 (High)
Ca: 1642 (Satisfactory)
Mg: 330 (Satisfactory)
Zn: 48.4 (Satisfactory)
Cu: 2 (Satisfactory)
Fe: 55 (Satisfactory)
Mn: 45 (Satisfactory)
Boron: 0.5 (No notation shown)
Sodium: 55 (Very low-salt effects mostly negligible)
Organic Matter: (No value shown)

UT recommends for vine crops:
N/P/K: 30-40/0/0 pounds per acre
Limestone: 2 tons per acre (fall application best)
Apply additional 15-30 pounds of nitrogen at 12 inch runners or early bloom.

All input/analysis/opinions will be greatly appreciated.
Regards, Clutch

10/29/2012 9:54:18 PM

Corryton, TN

The ph need to come up to 6.5-7.2. You need organic matter, CEC (cation exchange capacity, this is the soils ability to retain and supply nutrients), and base saturation results if you want to get a firm grip on your soil. My nutrient targets are the same as AG's. Check out pap's postings in new growers forum dated 12/26/11 for a good outline.

10/30/2012 7:25:38 AM

Muddy Waters

Need more calcium should be over 3000.If you get more organic matter make sure it's broke down.I lost 20 to 40lbs this year due to nitrogen being tied up.Late pollination's due to slow start.

10/30/2012 8:04:19 AM