US Extension specialists say corn yield response to nitrogen and needed fertilization rate decreases in years with below normal rainfall. But making broad assumptions this fall could mean a hungry crop next spring.Increased field variability was obvious this year and ensuring every plant has equal access to enough food in 2013 will be nearly impossible. Good soil sampling will be critical this fall, making sure enough cores are taken, and to the right depth. When interpreting results, remember that potassium availability may be overestimated in low testing soils or underestimated in high testing soils due to this year`s dry conditions and a higher incidence of binding in the soil. Also consider that high salt (fertilizer) concentrations in the sampling area can cause pH readings to be about 0.5-1.0 pH units lower than the actual pH before you decide to apply lime.