Supporting sustainable, resilient and profitable UK farm businesses
As UK farming continues to adapt to changing policy, environmental expectations and economic pressure, soil sampling and nutrient management planning are becoming increasingly important. Looking ahead to 2026, robust soil data will be central to improving efficiency, demonstrating sustainability and supporting long-term farm resilience.
At Promar, we work with farm businesses across the UK to ensure soil sampling is not just a compliance exercise, but a practical decision-making tool that underpins sustainable production and sound business planning.
Why soil sampling is critical for 2026 planning
Soil sampling provides the foundation for effective nutrient management. Without accurate and up-to-date soil analysis, fertiliser and manure decisions are often based on assumptions rather than evidence, increasing the risk of inefficiency, unnecessary cost and environmental impacts.
With ongoing volatility in fertiliser prices and increasing scrutiny around nutrient losses, soil sampling enables farmers to:
- Target nutrient applications accurately
- Improve nutrient use efficiency
- Avoid over-application and reduce input costs
- Protect soil structure and water quality
- Provide evidence for assurance schemes and environmental requirements
For many businesses, soil sampling will be a key part of forward planning for 2026 cropping and nutrient strategies.
Soil management and sustainability outcomes
Healthy soils are fundamental to sustainable agriculture. They support crop performance, water infiltration, nutrient cycling and carbon storage, while also helping farms adapt to more variable weather conditions.
Accurate soil sampling supports sustainability by helping farmers to:
- Reduce nutrient losses to water and air
- Lower greenhouse gas emissions linked to fertiliser use
- Maintain soil pH, structure and organic matter
- Support environmental scheme participation and supply chain requirements
Well-managed soils are more resilient, more productive and better able to support future farming systems.
Integrating soil data into whole-farm management plans
Soil sampling should not be viewed in isolation. To deliver real value, results must be integrated into a wider nutrient and business planning process.
For 2026 and beyond, soil analysis plays a critical role in:
- Nutrient Management Plans (NMPs)
- Crop rotation and cultivation planning
- Organic manure and slurry utilisation
- Environmental and carbon assessments
- Long-term soil health strategies
Sampling in good time allows farm businesses to plan nutrient inputs with confidence, align applications with crop demand, and reduce last-minute decision making.
Maximising the value of organic manures
Organic manures remain a valuable nutrient source, particularly where businesses are seeking to reduce reliance on manufactured fertilisers.
When soil sampling is combined with manure analysis, farmers can:
- Accurately assess nutrient supply from slurry and FYM
- Target applications to fields with genuine nutrient need
- Reduce purchased fertiliser without compromising performance
- Minimise the risk of nutrient losses and regulatory issues
This integrated approach supports both cost control and environmental responsibility, and is a core element of sustainable nutrient management.
From soil results to practical advice
Collecting soil samples is only the first step. The real benefit comes from interpreting results correctly and applying them in a practical, farm-specific way.
Promar’s consultants work with farmers to ensure soil data is:
- Clearly explained and relevant to the farm system
- Translated into realistic and achievable recommendations
- Aligned with business objectives, environmental priorities and regulation
Our approach focuses on delivering practical solutions that support long-term soil health, improved efficiency and sustainable profitability.
Preparing now for a sustainable future
As the industry plans for 2026, soil health will remain central to productive and resilient farming systems. Early soil sampling and proactive management planning provide the confidence to respond to change, manage risk and optimise nutrient use.
Investing in soil knowledge today helps farm businesses build a stronger, more sustainable platform for the future.
If you would like support with soil sampling, nutrient management planning or wider sustainability advice, our team are here to help simply fill in the form below and a member of our team will be in touch.
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