How Agro-Diagnostics Transformed Field Management

1. Time to Act — Even in a Crisis
Ustyanske LLC in Vinnytsia Region is an example of resilience and effective management under wartime conditions. Despite the risks and uncertainty, farm manager Pavlo Marushchak chose not to stop, but to keep developing the business. This was when the need for new solutions emerged — including soil analysis and precision planning.

2. Soil Analysis as the Starting Point
With the support of the USAID AGRO Program, the farm conducted field agro-diagnostics with the assistance of AgriLab specialists. The analyses were carried out by Ward Laboratories (USA). The results gave the farm a clear understanding of its soil requirements and enabled evidence-based fertilizer procurement planning.

3. Variable Soils — Different Approaches
The research revealed significant soil variability within the same farm. Differences in soil types and fertility provided the basis for switching to a zone-based approach, taking each field area into account individually rather than applying uniform rates across the entire field.

4. Specific Figures — Real Decisions
Agro-diagnostics identified phosphorus requirements of 15–54 kg/ha for corn, 15–64 kg/ha for wheat, and up to 65 kg/ha for rapeseed. This provided the basis for adopting variable-rate fertilizer application technology and reducing costs without compromising yields.

5. Recommendations for Implementation
The farm was advised to implement localized pH correction, variable-rate application of phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, and zinc, as well as variable seeding rates in low-productivity zones. This approach enables efficient resource use and precise management of every hectare.

6. The Result: A Transformation in Approach
The farm introduced 3–5-year planning and changed its approach to procurement and agronomic decision-making. Pavlo’s experience demonstrates how, even in challenging times, an agricultural strategy can be built on accurate data while maintaining sustainable development. AgriLab continues to support farms across Ukraine in implementing such solutions.