The nutrient content of slurries can vary widely, making their use in crop nutrient management plans often inaccurate. On-farm adoption of quick assessment tools, such as the slurry hydrometer, allows for immediate estimation of nutrient concentrations based on slurry dry matter. This hydrometer is easy to use: after collecting freshly mixed, fully agitated slurry in a suitable container, the hydrometer is submerged and allowed to settle to determine the dry matter percentage at the slurry surface. This measurement is crucial for accurately calculating nutrient application rates and improving precision in nutrient management strategies. In cases where the slurry is too thick for the hydrometer to sink, dilution with water is recommended, and the dry matter value is adjusted accordingly. Careful handling and cleaning of the hydrometer, typically made of fragile glass, ensures its durability and reliability for repeated use on farms. This tool represents a significant advancement in optimizing the utilization of slurries alongside conventional fertilizers, contributing to more efficient and sustainable agricultural practices.
Slurry hydrometer
Content Author: TEAGASC