Hohenlohe Reopens Mid‑January Soil Testing Window to Guide Winter Crops Fertilization
Farmers across the hohenlohe district can again submit soil samples for nitrogen testing starting in mid‑January, as authorities renew the Nitrate Details Service (NID) program to help plan spring fertilization.
Three local contact points are available for drop-off, sample submission, and consultation. Farmers collect their own samples and can obtain the necessary utensils—such as drilling sticks and transport containers—directly from these locations. Laboratory analysis of soil and manure samples can also be submitted at these points.
For questions or additional information, the Hohenlohe District Agricultural Office can be reached by phone at 07940/18-1622 or -1620.
How to participate
- submit soil samples from your fields for analysis and receive a crop‑appropriate fertilizer plan.
- Pick up sampling tools at one of the three contact points listed below.
- Submit both soil and manure samples for lab testing at the same locations.
- Receive a detailed, area‑specific fertilizer advice tailored to the soil data and aligned with fertilizer regulations.
Key contact points
- Fritz Schlitzer — Westernbacher Str. 29, Öhringen‑Büttelbronn, Tel. 0151/23694318
- Martin Mütsch — Schöntal‑Bieringen, Tel. 0162/2141105
- Friedrich Breuninger — Ingelfingen‑Hermuthausen, Tel. 0162/7343834
why nitrogen testing matters
Spring crop growth hinges on nitrogen availability. Too little nitrogen stunts growth, while excess nitrogen can raise disease and pest risk and inflate costs.The Fertilizer Ordinance requires annual assessment of soil nitrogen and its consideration in fertilization plans. A targeted, needs‑based approach supports healthy yields and can be financially prudent, especially amid rising fertilizer prices.
The district emphasizes soil analyses,with mandatory nitrogen testing in designated “red zones” for every management unit. In other areas affected by problems or redevelopment, certain sampling rules apply under SchALVO for crops like maize and potatoes, nitrogen‑heavy previous crops, after long periods of set‑aside, or intensive organic fertilization with higher livestock density.Samples sent with area information trigger a customized fertilizer recommendation that complies with the Fertilizer Ordinance.
Accompanying forms, along with the online guidance, are available at www.duengung-bw.de or at the intake points. each soil sample and the accompanying form carry a barcode to ensure traceability from collection to analysis.
Table: Fast facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Program | Nitrate Information Service (NID) soil sampling |
| Start window | Mid‑January |
| Locations | Öhringen‑Büttelbronn, Schöntal‑Bieringen, Ingelfingen‑Hermuthausen |
| What to bring | soil and manure samples; sampling utensils available at points |
| Submission | Lab analysis at designated points; fertilizer recommendations provided |
| Forms & barcode | Online forms at www.duengung-bw.de; barcode on samples and forms |
Evergreen context for growers
Regular soil nitrogen testing remains a best practice for modern farming, helping balance yield potential with input costs. Even as regulations evolve, a data‑driven approach to nutrient management supports sustainable production and resilient crop performance year after year.
What this means for you
Farmers in red zones must complete nitrogen testing for each management unit, while others may encounter region‑specific guidelines under local environmental rules. The goal is precise fertilization—aligned with soil reality—to maximize yields while minimizing waste and environmental impact.
Are you planning to participate in this year’s NID testing window? How do you expect soil nitrogen data to influence your spring fertilization plan?
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and tell us how precise nutrient management coudl affect your farming strategy this season.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for agricultural planning and does not constitute professional legal or financial advice. Always follow current local regulations and consult the official guidance when making fertilizer decisions.
