The Ontario soil testing and fertilizer recommendation system for Phosphorus P and Potassium K has a scientific basis as strong as any soil testing program in North America and stronger than most. Since its beginning in the 1940s, the system has been continuously updated as new extraction methods, new hybrids and new management practices have become available. The Ontario Soil Management Research and Services Committee OSMRSC is responsible for the plant nutrient and limestone recommendations for all crops grown in Ontario. The OSMRSC is made up of research, extension, grower and fertilizer industry representatives who meet annually to consider changes in fertilizer recommendations. Suggested changes in fertilizer recommendations are considered first by the appropriate subcommittees and are then passed on to OSMRSC for final approval and inclusion in the OMAF crop recommendation bulletins e.g., Publication 296 for Field Crops, Publication 363 for Vegetable Crops. In addition, the approved changes are incorporated into the recommendations from the OMAF accredited soil test laboratories.

Telephone: (519) 826-4047
Website: http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/crops/facts/97-005.htm