A good fertility management program insures an adequate supply of mineral nutrients to produce high yields of good quality leaf. 

• Soil Test - do this at least 6-12 months before planting and repeat no less than every other year
• Aim for a pre-plant soil pH of 6.2 to 6.6
• Nitrogen recommendations are generally from 150 to 275 lb N per acre, depending on soil and cropping history
• Apply P and K according to soil test recommendations