Soils
Iowa's rich soils are the backbone of its agricultural success. Find more information about Iowa’s soils, soil fertility needs for crop production in Iowa, how to reduce soil erosion, minimize soil compaction, and improve soil productivity.
Soil Tools and Resources
- Compendium of Non-Traditional Products
- Corn Nitrogen Rate Calculator
- Corn Suitability Rating Index (CSR2)
- Geospatial Laboratory for Soil Informatics
- Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy
- Iowa Soil Property Map
- NFACT Nitrogen Fertilizer Application Consultation Tool
- Soil Erosion Calculator
- Soil Content Index
Timely Insights on Soils
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July 9, 2025Content Author
Late-season nitrogen rescue applications aren’t always necessary—but this year, many Iowa fields are showing signs that they might be. Between above-average precipitation, early N loss, and delayed sidedress applications, the conditions for in-season N deficiency are widespread. If you see visual signs of deficiency and your crop still has strong potential, a rescue application applied as soon as possible could help recover some yield potential. Ultimately, applying some N is often better than applying none when the crop is short. The longer the deficiency goes uncorrected, the greater the potential yield loss. In a year where so many things are out of your control, rescue N is one tool you still have time to use effectively.
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May 19, 2025Authors
An open house will recognize a new research and extension facility as well as the 95th anniversary of Iowa State University’s Northern Research and Demonstration Farm.
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May 15, 2025Content Author
You won’t want to miss any of the upcoming field days hosted at the outlying Iowa State University Research Farms this summer. These field days will feature the latest information on crop production and management practices. Below is a list of the upcoming field days that will take place as well as what topics will be featured at each field day. All field days are of no cost to attendees and open to the public.
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April 21, 2025Content Author
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Field Agronomists have completed their spring survey of subsoil moisture in northwest Iowa. Subsoil moisture sampling in Iowa dates to February 1954 when ten sites were chosen for soil moisture sampling. In 1959, the sampling increased to 22 locations, and in 1971, 61 locations were sampled. Today, 18 locations are sampled in northwest Iowa.
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April 21, 2025Content Author
The last week or two has been refreshing with warmer temperatures and pastures beginning to green up. As that green flush appears, it can be tempting to turn animals out too early. However, many pastures across the state have taken a hit in recent years due to drought and/or flooding. As of October 28, 2024, much of the state was still experiencing drought conditions, with soil moisture deficits extending from the surface down to 1.5 feet (Figure 1).
